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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Brussels Griffon
There are actually two versions of the Brussels Griffon. One has a rough coat (harsh,
wiry and dense), and the other has a smooth coat (short, straight, glossy) and is
referred to as the Brabancon. Brabancon's need less grooming. The coat colors of
both types are red, red-brown and black, black and tan, and solid black. The domed
shaped head should be large. Their prominent eyes are also large, reflecting pug-like
features. They have a sizeable, undershot jaw. This causes the lower incisors to
cover the upper incisors however neither the tongue nor teeth should show. The small
ears should be set high on the head. They can either be cropped or left natural.
The wide set eyes should be dark in color with black rims and long eye lashes. The
nose and the lips also have black coloring. The body has a broad, deep brisket with
a level back. The arched neck is medium length and the muscular forelegs are straight
boned and widely set. The hocks on the hindlegs are let down and straight. The round
feet are small and the tail should be set high emerging at right angles from the
topline. The tail can be docked or left natural.
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Temperament
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Brussels Griffon are affectionate, charming, willful and high-strung. They are devoted
to their owners and love to be spoiled. If left alone for long periods of time,
they will become destructive. They are a sensitive breed and can be demanding at
times. They tend to play very rough and sometimes become fearful and unpredictable
around children. However, they are good with other dogs and cats. They also make
excellent participants for dog sports.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 7-8" ; Weight: 6-12 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Brussels are difficult to breed. The females often need to give birth by cesarean
section. Some are prone to eye and respiratory problems, subluxating patellas, collapsing
tracheas, pulmonary hypertension and congestive heart failure.
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Living Conditions
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Brussels can live just fine in an apartment.
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Exercise
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This breed is very active indoors and requires little exercise from their owner.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15 years
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Grooming
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The coat on the rough-coat Brussel requires a lot of attention. This dog is a light
shedder.
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Origin
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The Brussels Griffon was created in the 19th century by crossing Affenpinschers,
Pugs and Belgian stable dogs. Horse-drawn cab drivers needed a minute, intelligent
dog to guard their cabs and eliminate stable vermin. The rough street dog mixed
with the intelligence of the Affenpinscher exceeded the cab drivers expectations.
English Toy Spaniel and a small amount of Yorkshire Terrier were bred in to reflect
a more human like face. The breed was standardized by the late 19th century and
exported to Great Britain and the United States. The Brussels Griffon is recognized
by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Toy, UKC Companion Dog
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