Introducing the Brussels Griffon
Find out everything you need to know about the Belgian Griffon: its characteristics, its behavior, its education, its price.
The Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon, a small dog with a big personality
The Brussels Griffon, hailing from Belgium, is a small breed with a distinct, almost human-like expression. Originally bred to hunt rats, it has become a beloved companion worldwide, known for its spirited and affectionate nature.
Despite its small size, the Brussels Griffon is brave and intelligent, excelling as a loyal pet and in dog sports. Its sociable and loving temperament makes it a joy to be around, always eager to bond with its family and shower them with affection.
BRUSSELS GRIFFON FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Brussels Griffon.
Group
The Brussels Griffon belongs to the toy group, known for their affectionate and lively nature.
Size
A small breed, Brussels Griffons stand 7 to 10 inches tall and weigh 8 to 12 pounds.
Coat length
Their coats can be rough and wiry or smooth and sleek, depending on the variety.
Coat color
Brussels Griffons come in colors like red, black, black and tan, or belge (black and reddish-brown).
Living environment
They adapt well to apartment living and thrive in close proximity to their owners.
Sociability
Brussels Griffons are sociable, great with children, and friendly with other pets when socialized.
Health
Generally healthy, they can be prone to respiratory issues and joint problems like patellar luxation.
Training
Intelligent and eager to please, Brussels Griffons are easy to train with positive reinforcement and patience.
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Physical characteristics
The Brussels Griffon, with its almost human-like expression
The Brussels Griffon is a small, balanced dog with a distinctive, expressive face resembling a little monkey. Its coat can be rough and wiry or smooth and sleek, adding to its unique charm.
Size and weight of the Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons stand 7 to 10 inches tall, with females weighing 7 to 10 pounds and males up to 12 pounds. They reach their full size by 8 to 10 months.
The coat of the Brussels Griffon
Coat length
The Brussels Griffon comes in two varieties: rough and smooth. The rough coat is dense and wiry, while the smooth coat is short and glossy.
Coat color
This breed’s coat colors include red, black, black and tan, and a mix of black and reddish-brown (belge).
Coat care
Both coat types require regular grooming. The rough coat needs weekly brushing to prevent matting, while the smooth coat benefits from regular brushing to maintain shine. Increased grooming is necessary during seasonal shedding.
Other characteristics of the Brussels Griffon
Physical features
The Brussels Griffon is a small, well-proportioned dog with a sturdy build. It has a large, rounded head with a distinctive, human-like expression. The eyes are large, round, and dark, while the ears are set high, either cropped or left natural. The body is compact and muscular.
Temperament & behavior
What is the temperament of the Brussels Griffon?
Brussels Griffons are loyal, affectionate, and full of personality. They are known for their strong bond with their owners and their lively, playful nature.
Brussels Griffon category
There are approximately 400 registered dog breeds, divided into 10 groups. The Brussels Griffon belongs to the toy group, which includes small companion dogs like Pugs and Chihuahuas.
Breeds in this group are typically affectionate, intelligent, and well-suited to indoor living. The Brussels Griffon is particularly known for its loyalty, sharp intelligence, and playful yet affectionate nature, making it an excellent companion.
Behavior of the Brussels Griffon
A loyal and affectionate companion
The Brussels Griffon is a small breed bursting with character. These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their owners. They are affectionate and love to be close to their human companions, often displaying their affection through snuggles and constant companionship. A present and attentive owner is crucial for the Brussels Griffon to thrive, as they rely heavily on interaction and attention to develop into well-adjusted pets.
A sociable and friendly dog
Brussels Griffons are known for their sociable and generous nature. They get along well with people, including strangers, and are generally friendly towards other animals. This breed is particularly good with children, making them a great family companion. However, it's important to work on their social skills from a young age to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults.
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The Brussels Griffon's living environment
Adaptable and attentive
The Brussels Griffon adapts well to various living situations, whether in an apartment or a house, urban or rural. They thrive on attention and need at least two daily walks of 20 to 30 minutes.
Enjoys outdoor exploration
Though adaptable, the Brussels Griffon benefits from outdoor spaces to explore and burn off energy.
Training the Brussels Griffon
Intelligent and eager to learn
The Brussels Griffon is intelligent and generally easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement. Due to their curious nature, a GPS collar is recommended to prevent escapes.
Attentive and responsive
Brussels Griffons are attentive but can be stubborn. Early socialization and consistent training are essential for a well-behaved adult.
Health & nutrition
How to take care of the Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is generally healthy, but daily care is essential to prevent health issues. Regular attention to hygiene helps avoid diseases and infections.
The health of the Brussels Griffon
Illnesses
Brussels Griffons are usually robust but can develop respiratory issues, patellar luxation, and eye problems. Their lifespan is typically 12 to 15 years.
Routine care
Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite treatments are crucial. Daily care includes brushing, ear cleaning, dental care, and nail trimming. The Brussels Griffon is not hypoallergenic.
Feeding the Brussels Griffon
Daily requirements
The Brussels Griffon requires a balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins to maintain its health. Premium kibble is recommended, with the option to supplement with lean white or red meat, while keeping fats to a minimum.
Breeding or adoption & cost
What does a Brussels Griffon cost?
The Brussels Griffon is a well-regarded breed with several breeders available. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.
How to choose your Brussels Griffon
Finding the right breeder
When choosing a Brussels Griffon, ensure the breeder is reputable by visiting their premises and assessing the dogs' living conditions. Check the health of the puppy and its parents. Remember, it’s a legal requirement in Great Britain to microchip your dog by 8 weeks old and register it on a database like Petlog or Animal Tracker. Otherwise one receives a fine of
Vets or Blue Cross centers can do this.
The price of a Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffon puppies typically cost between
and
, depending on factors like lineage and breeder reputation. Annual costs, including vet care and food, range from
to
Which dog breed is right for you?
Which dog breed is right for you?
Take the test to find out!
Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!
