Brussels Griffon pack a lot of personality into a petite and perky frame. This somewhat rare breed got its start hunting stable rats but has developed a star-studded reputation, appearing in films like As Good As It Gets, First Wives Club, and Gosford Park.
Originally from Belgium, this small and medium-energy breed can grow to between 8-10 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Toy group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Breed group | Toy |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Tiny |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 70 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Small vermin hunting |
| Today's function | Companion |
| Average size of male | Height: 9-11 Weight: 8-10 |
| Average size of female | Height: 9-11 Weight: 8-10 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Low |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Low tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A BRUSSELS GRIFFON'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
The spunky, playful, and devoted Brussels Griffon is good for many types of families but should be supervised with kids — their small frames make them prone to injury. These are bright, affectionate, curious, and social dogs.
They can be somewhat shy with other dogs but are good with other pets and small animals.
WHAT IS BRUSSELS GRIFFON BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Brussels Griffons are active both indoors and outside. This is an alert breed that requires daily walks for health and stimulation. They are vigilant but not usually protective and can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A BRUSSELS GRIFFON?
Brussels Griffons are biddable but might require some extra care while they're learning. Be sure to start while your pup is still young, particularly with house and crate training.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO BRUSSELS GRIFFONS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Brussels Griffons are seasonal shedders. Their short double coats can be either smooth or rough. Rough-coated Brussels Griffons feel dense and wiry. In the smooth-coated variety, their hair is straight and shiny.
This breed has moderate grooming requirements. Brussels Griffons with rough coats should be brushed twice a week and hand-stripped by a professional groomer. The smooth coat variety is easier of the two varieties to groom; they require weekly brushing and seasonal shaping.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO BRUSSELS GRIFFONS HAVE?
The Brussels Griffon is usually a healthy breed. However, some have been known to develop potentially fatal spinal cord cysts. They can also develop eye defects, heart problems, and orthopedic ailments like hip dysplasia or slipped knee caps.
