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Short History of the Breed

The Brussels Griffon, named for the city of his origin, Brussels, Belgium, is a lively, sturdy little fellow, classified as a member of the Toy Group due to his small size. During the early 1800’s, it was the custom for coachmen to keep small terrier types as ratters in the stables, and such dogs of that period in Belgium were Affenpinscher-like, known as Griffons d’Ecurie (wire coated stable dogs). Just when or why other breeds were introduced can only be conjecture as the Brussels’ stablemen who initiated these crosses apparently kept no records. The Pug, a Victorian favorite from across the Channel, was bred to the native Belgian dog in the mid 1800s. From this cross came a smooth coated Griffon designated Brabancon after the Belgian national anthem, La Brabonconne. At about the same time the King Charles (black and tan) and the Ruby varieties of the English Toy Spaniel were also crossed with the Belgian dogs. From these two crossings not only did two distinct types of coat emerge, the harsh coated bewiskered rough, and the smooth coated Brabancon, but also the rich red color; the black and tan color, and the solid black color. The English Toy Spaniel ancestry can also be seen to this day in an occasional (and completely acceptable) web footed, kink tailed, or tailless Griffon puppy, often the one with the most desirable head properties. These two short faced, big headed, large eyed breeds forever changed the serviceable little ratter into a delightful small companion dog with a strong, broad, up-swept underjaw, and a very short, up-tilted nose placed high between very dark, lustrous eyes with the high domed skull of the English Toy Spaniel. All of this together conjures that wonderful "pout", which gives the Griffon that almost human expression. No longer serving his original function (in itself obsolete) the Brussels Griffon has evolved into a most intriguing looking, alert and active companion.

Physical Description and Size

Size: Shoulder height: 7 - 8 inches (17.78 - 20.32 cm). Weight: Griffons can range in size from as little as 6 lbs. up to 12, or even 14 lbs.
There are four coat colors: red, black, black and tan, and belge (which is red and black mixed, giving the coat a shaded look). In addition, there are two coat types, rough and smooth. The wiry haired rough coat is dense and somewhat harsh to the touch. The rough coat is hand stripped short on the body and left somewhat longer on the leg furnishings and the face to form a beard. The smooth coat is short, tight and glossy, similar to that of a Boston Terrier. The smooth-coated Griffon will not have a beard and furnishings. The two coat types give the Griffon a different look, but the dog underneath is the same. In fact, the two coats appear interchangeably, as both coat types are often born in the same litter of puppies.

Temperament

This dog gets along well with children, other dogs, and any household pets. It always enjoys company but cherishes human companionship the most.

Dog Care

(exercise, grooming, diet)
These little dogs are very active indoors and little exercise is needed on the owner's part. They get pretty much all they need throughout the day on their own.
The coat of the Rough requires a lot of attention. The coat should be plucked by hand on a regular basis. The beard needs to be combed frequently to remove food particles. Smooth coats require little grooming. The occasional brushing and bathing is sufficient. The Griffon sheds little to no hair

Health Issues and Life Expectancy

Life expectancy is about 12-15 years
They are difficult to breed. Dams often require Cesarean section for whelping. Some are prone to slipped stifle, eyes and respiratory problems.

Famous Faces:

You may be asking, "Where I have seen that cute little dog before?" if you happen to not be familiar with this breed. The Brussels Griffon gained some notoriety in the late 90"s after co-starring in "As Good As It Gets" with Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, and Greg Kinear. The little dog "Verdell" with his intelligence and huge personality stole the movie and should have earned himself an Oscar too!

Additional Resources

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Brussels Griffon - Online Community