The Griffon Bruxellois, or Brussels Griffon as he is usually known, is a smart little fellow with the disposition of a Terrier, and he has many attractive qualities as a pet. His quaint appearance is amusing in itself, giving him a quasi-human expression. The Griffon Bruxellois head is noticeable because it is large and rounded, covered with rather coarse hair, and the jaws edged with moustache and beard. The nose is very short, suggesting indebtedness to the Toy Spaniel.
Ears thin and semi-erect; in imported specimens they are cropped and therefore upright. The Griffon Bruxellois chest is rather wide and deep; legs of medium length, and the tail, which is carried upwards, has had about one-third docked. The tiny ones are the most valued, though the weight may range between 5 lb. and 9 lb. Colour, red or black, the former being the most general. In Belgium the black is known as the Griffon Beige. There is a smooth-coated variety which is useful for breeding with the roughs. These are called Brabancons, the word "Briffon" not being applicable, as it simply means rough.
The Brussels Griffon is no doubt a dog of very mixed ancestry, but that is no reason why other breeds should be used now as they are sometimes in Belgium. Griffon Bruxellois Dogs have been shown there which have had a palpable King Charles Spanie 1 cross, and in other cases Pugs are supposed to have been used.
Griffon Bruxellois Food and Cleanibg Recommended
In some breeds there can be quite noticeable differences in character between males and females however it is generally agreed between Griffon Bruxellois fanciers that there really is not a difference in temperament and personality between the sexes. Although breeding is not particularly easy, once puppies have been produced and have overcome the first crucial weeks of life, this is in general a healthy breed.
Some Griffons Bruxellois, like many of the short nosed breeds, suffer from snorting, which is caused by elongation of the soft palate. This is rarely a problem. Because the eyes are fairly large they can be susceptible to damage so it is important that eyes are kept clear of debris and discharge. This can be helped by keeping the area around the eye clear of excess hair and items which might become entangled in the hair around the eyes. If you are not diligent in this area of care eye irritations, possibly resulting in ulcerations of the eye are not uncommon.
The Griffon Bruxellois is a very intelligent dog, very trainable, and many have achieved obedience and agility titles. As the Griffon is a relatively rare breed most people interested in obtaining one discover that it is not as readily available as many more popular breeds. Griffons generally have small litters and breeding is also difficult as the small puppies are often very susceptible to problems before they reach the age of six weeks.
For these reasons, and because the breed is steadily increasing in popularity, generally people wanting to acquire a Griffon Bruxellois find that they need to place their name on a waiting list with a breeder(s) from whom they would like to purchase a puppy. Resulting puppies from planned litters from respectable breeders will often be already well and truly committed before birth. As with any breed, dog ownership is a commitment for the duration of that dogs life and should never be entered into lightly, without adequate consideration. We love this breed and we are always happy to discuss any breed characteristics or requirements such as training, feeding and general care with any prospective or current Griffon owner.
Griffon Bruxellois Video
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