Brussels Griffon, Little Dog with a Big Heart

Lesser Known Toy Breed has an Almost Human Expression

Oct 18, 2008

The Brussels Griffon, also known as Griffon Bruxellois, bred as a working dog kept in stables to kill rodents, evolved into a beloved pet of the rich.

You won't find many listings in the Classifieds for Brussels Griffon puppies, because this toy dog is both expensive and risky to breed. Nonetheless, its devotees will assure you that the sturdy little dog will reward you with his loyalty, affection and comical face no matter how you find him – through a reputable breeder or from a rescue organization.

The roots of the breed include the old stable and carriage dogs of the working class, bred with the King Charles spaniel and the pug.

Three Variations of the Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is the most familiar version of this breed. Known in Europe as the Griffon bruxellois, the major distinction is its coat color and texture: rough, slightly wavy with little shedding, red or reddish-brown with a black muzzle. The Belgian Griffon, or Griffon Belge, is also rough-coated and ranges from black to red-and-black to black-and-tan. The Petit Brabancon, which comes in all the colors of the other varieties, is the smooth-coated version with no wiry hair, resembling a Pug or Boston Terrier.

Average weight is from five to fifteen pounds, with a sturdy, thickset "boxy" shape. The jaw is typically undershot, the tail (in the US) is docked, and ears may or may not be cropped.

Personality "Plus"

Griffies do not lack self-confidence, provided they have been raised in a healthy, secure environment. They will bond with one human over all others, and stay close by in a protective - almost possessive - companionship. The ultimate lap dog, the Griffon expects to share your bed, your sofa and your daily walk. Because of his possessive tendencies, the Griffon may not be the best choice for a household with small children or other larger dogs.

They enjoy exercise and can be good friends with other dogs providing the "territory" is neutral, such as a playgroup or public dog park. Exhibiting an almost total lack of fear in front of big "bullies", they will stand their ground against much larger breeds.

Because they are so intelligent, Griffons may be stubborn and resist housebreaking. Good obedience training from an early age is essential. However, they will happily adopt the crate as their private domain, and will learn tricks to please you. Brussels Griffons are often used as highly-trainable working dogs in Hollywood, as their winsome, sensitive and nearly-human faces bring comic relief to a story line.

Health Cautions of the Brussels Griffon

Because of their small size and proportionately large heads, there may be birthing problems requiring Caesarian section to deliver the one-to-three puppies in the average litter. Griffons, like pugs and bulldogs, are brachyocephalic, meaning they may have breathing problems, tend to snore and breathe loudly. Avoid over-heated situations as they are prone to heat stroke. Cleft palate is an occasional defect, usually fatal if not surgically corrected soon after birth.

Care for their eyes is also important, as these bulge slightly from the face and are vulnerable to lacerations and infection.

If your heart's desire is to be adored, assured of a very vocal "protector", while never being alone on your daily rounds, perhaps you would like to be "owned" by a Brussels Griffon. Your life will never be the same once you bring a Griffie into your home.

The copyright of the article Brussels Griffon, Little Dog with a Big Heart in Dog Breeds is owned by Barbara Bell. Permission to republish Brussels Griffon, Little Dog with a Big Heart in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.