Brussels Griffon

 

A very intelligent creature with an almost human-like “pout” expression, the Brussels Griffon is the result of sophisticated breeding during the mid-to-late-1800s. Brussels Griffon are sturdy dogs with relatively long life spans: they make excellent house dogs and devoted, lifelong companions.

Appearance

Brussels Griffons have two distinct types of coats - the bewhiskered rough and the smooth-coated Brabançon (more information below). The Griffon stands between 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulders, and generally weights between 8 to 12 pounds. Coat colors can range from red, black, black and tan, or reddish-brown and black.

Personality

The Griffon carries itself with an air of self-importance, as if it recognizes its own (considerable) intelligence. Brussels Griffons are fairly easy to train due to this intelligence and the innate desire to please. They can be unusually sensitive and should socialize with people often. They can be very expressive and some have described them as having almost human-like expressions.

History

Named for the Belgian city of its origin, the Brussels Griffon emerged in the mid-to-late 1800s as a result of a chain of successful breeding. It began with small terrier-types used as rat catchers for stables known as griffons d’ecurie (or “wire-coated stable dogs”), which were systematically bred with the Victorian favorite Pugs to produce the distinct, smooth-coated Griffon, designated Brabançon after the Belgian national anthem, “La Brabançonne”. Further breeding with the black-and-tan King Charles and the Ruby English Toy Spaniel refined the breed and gave it a wide range of vivid coats.

Care

Brussels Griffons can suffice with regular brushing and occasional baths. They have a strong need to be around owners and, without proper training, can be moody and petulant. It needs plenty of exercise, both mental and physical. It enjoys robust indoor games and short walks on the leash. The Brussels Griffon does poorly as an outdoor dog. The Griffon’s rough coat should be combed two or three times a week.

Health

The breed has no major health concerns, but minor concerns include patellar luxation, distichiasis, and heatstroke. Average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.

Conditions Summary

Patellar Luxation: a condition where the knee cap moves out of position momentarily, can lead to lameness.

Distichiasis: a condition where abnormal eyelash growth near or under the eyelid irritates the eyes.

Heatstroke (hypothermia): an inability of the body to keep internal temperatures within a safe range.

 

References

The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.

"Brussels Griffons: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the Brussels Griffon Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog. 

"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Brussels Griffon." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds.  

"American Kennel Club - Brussels Griffon." American Kennel Club - Akc.org.  

"Choosing a Brussels Griffon." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information. 

"Luxating Patella: A Knee Problem in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.  

"Distichiasis: Eyelashes Irritating the Eye in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.  

"Heatstroke (Hyperthermia) in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.