Toy group · Belgium
Brussels Griffon
Also called Griffon Bruxellois, Belgian Griffon, Griff.
What makes them remarkable
Before becoming a companion, this expressive little dog worked as a ratter in Brussels stable yards.
- Alert
- Curious
- Loyal
- Sensitive
- Self-Important
- Size
- Toy
- Weight
- 4 to 5 kg8 to 10 lb
- Lives
- 12 to 15 years
- Energy
- Moderate
- Trains
- Moderate
- Barks
- Moderate
Training
Training a Brussels Griffon
Toy breeds. Train them like a dog, not an ornament. Small dogs skip the manners work because they can be picked up.
Handle Sensitivity
Start here
Extremely sensitive: harsh handling makes them shut down, so reward generously and correct calmly and rarely.
Strong Bond Required
Bonds intensely to one person. Training works best with their primary person.
Socialisation Important
Can be suspicious of strangers. Early, ongoing socialisation prevents excessive wariness.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Brussels Griffon and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred for company. Small in body, and often bigger in personality than the owner expected.
Gets on with
- ChildrenLow
- Other dogsModerate
- StrangersLow
- CatsModerate
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 20-30 minutes daily. Short walks and indoor play.
- Grooming
- Moderate to high. Rough coat needs hand-stripping or regular trimming. Smooth coat needs weekly brushing.
- Drool
- Very Low
- Coat
- Rough, SmoothRed, Black, Black and Tan, Belge
- In a flat
- Can work, with enough exercise outside it.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Moderate
Breathing difficulties from shortened muzzle
Hip Dysplasia
Mild
Unusual for toy breeds but occurs in Griffons
Eye Problems
Moderate
Prominent eyes prone to lacerations and cataracts
Where they come from
History
Developed in Brussels as ratters for stable yards. Crossbred with Pugs and English Toy Spaniels in the 1800s, creating the distinctive face. Rose to fame after appearing in films.
- Verdell · Stole scenes as Melvin's reluctant companion
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