Griffon (Brussels)

Origins and History

The Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois) originated in Belgium in the 19th century. Developed from the now‑extinct Belgian Hound and the English Toy Spaniel, it was bred to be a companion for city dwellers and a rat‑catcher in factories. The breed gained recognition at the 1863 Paris World Fair and was admitted to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1954. Throughout the 20th century the breed was refined in both rough‑haired (wire‑coated) and smooth‑coated varieties, with the smooth type eventually becoming the most common in the United States.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: Small, sturdy toy with a compact, well‑balanced body and a distinctive “monkey‑like” expression.
• Temperament highlights: Curious, alert, affectionate, and often described as having a bold personality despite its diminutive size.
• Primary breed purpose: Companion dog; historically also used for vermin control in urban settings.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 23‑28 cm (9‑11 in), Females 22‑27 cm (8½‑10½ in) at the withers.
• Weight: Typically 3.5‑5 kg (8‑11 lb); the breed should appear muscular yet proportionate.

Coat and Color

• Texture and length: Two varieties are recognized – Rough (wire‑haired) with a dense, harsh outer coat and a softer undercoat, and Smooth (short) with a close‑lying, glossy coat.
• Accepted colors and patterns: Solid red; black; black & tan; and the “Bruxelles” pattern (black, tan, and reddish mahogany). White markings are permitted only as small, well‑defined spots on the head, chest, or paws. Any other colors or extensive white are disallowed.

Temperament Considerations

Brussels Griffons are highly intelligent and eager to please, yet they possess a strong independent streak. Their inquisitive nature can lead to stubbornness if training is not engaging. Early socialization is essential to prevent timidity around unfamiliar people or dogs.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: Introduce to a variety of environments, sounds, and gentle dogs between 8‑12 weeks of age.
• Exercise needs: Short, frequent play sessions (15‑20 minutes) two to three times daily; they are not a high‑energy breed but require mental stimulation.
• Common training challenges: Distraction by scent or movement, occasional clinginess, and a tendency to become possessive of favorite toys.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: Rough coat – brush 2‑3 times weekly with a slicker brush and a metal comb to remove dead hair; Smooth coat – brush 1‑2 times weekly with a soft bristle brush.
• Bathing requirements: Bathe as needed (approximately every 4‑6 weeks) using a mild, hypoallergenic dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails every 2‑3 weeks; brush teeth daily or provide dental chews to reduce plaque buildup.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Begin a thorough coat trim 7‑10 days before the show; for rough‑coated dogs, clip the feathering to the prescribed length; for smooth‑coated dogs, clip the body to a uniform short length.
• Ring presentation tips: Emphasize the breed’s characteristic head shape, expressive eyes, and correct gait (a short, brisk trot). Ensure the coat is clean, free of mats, and the ears are neatly trimmed to the standard.

Common Health Issues

• Patellar luxation (Grade I‑II most common).
• Brachycephalic airway syndrome – occasional snoring and sensitivity to extreme heat.
• Cataracts and other ocular disorders; regular ophthalmologic exams are recommended.
• Mitral valve disease – a progressive heart condition seen in older individuals.
• Dental overcrowding – prone to tartar buildup and periodontal disease.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Moderate activity; daily walks and interactive play prevent obesity and mental boredom.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality small‑breed kibble formulated for 8‑12 lb dogs; monitor caloric intake to maintain an optimal weight.
• Lifespan considerations: Average lifespan 12‑15 years; regular veterinary wellness exams (at least annually) help detect hereditary conditions early.