Overview Brussels Griffon dog
Origin & History
Brussels Griffon dog, also known as Griffon Bruxellois, originates from Brussels, Belgium. It includes three varieties: the Griffon Bruxellois, Griffon Belge, and Petit Brabançon. All descended from a small terrier-like dog called the Smousje, bred to eliminate rodents. Crossbreeding with Pugs and King Charles Spaniels created the modern breed with its distinctive coat and colors. The breed gained popularity in the 19th century, boosted by Queen Marie Henriette, and later spread internationally.
Appearance & Size
Brussels Griffons are small but sturdy, standing 9–11 inches tall and weighing 8–10 pounds. They have domed heads, short noses, and expressive, human-like faces. Coats can be wiry/rough or smooth in red, black and tan, or black and reddish colors.
Temperament & Personality
Brussels Griffons are alert, inquisitive, and emotionally sensitive. They often bond closely with one person but generally get along well with children and other pets. They enjoy playtime but have limited patience and require early socialization for best behavior.
Health & Lifespan
The breed typically lives around 13 years, with potential health concerns including eye problems, syringomyelia (SM), Chiari-like malformation (CM), cataracts, and glaucoma. Regular veterinary checks are essential to monitor these conditions.
Care & Grooming
Smooth-coated Griffons require minimal grooming, while rough/wiry-coated types need weekly brushing. Their diet should support their small size, and exercise should include daily playtime.
Breeding & Puppies
Litter size averages 4–5 puppies, with occasional complications such as cleft palate. Puppies are tiny at birth and require attentive care to thrive.
Brussels Griffon Dog: Quick Facts Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Brussels, Belgium |
| Size | 9–11 inches tall, 8–10 lbs |
| Coat Types | Rough (wiry) or smooth; colors: red, black & tan, black & reddish |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Temperament | Loyal, affectionate, alert, sensitive; bonds closely with one person |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate; enjoys daily walks and indoor playtime |
| Grooming | Rough-coated: weekly brushing; smooth-coated: minimal grooming |
| Training | Intelligent but can be stubborn; responds well to positive reinforcement |
| Health Concerns | Eye issues (cataracts, glaucoma), syringomyelia (SM), Chiari-like malformation (CM) |
| Ideal Home | Best suited for adults or families with older children; not recommended for homes with large dogs |
Lifespan of Brussels Griffon Dog
The Brussels Griffon dog generally enjoys a lifespan of 12–15 years, which is relatively long for a toy breed. Their longevity depends on proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary checkups. Health monitoring is particularly important, as this breed can be prone to eye conditions, syringomyelia (SM), and Chiari-like malformation (CM). Providing mental stimulation, social interaction, and preventive care can help your Brussels Griffon live a full, healthy, and happy life.
For dog owners interested in calculating your pet’s age in human years, you can check out our Brussels Griffon Dog Age Calculator to better understand your Brussels Griffon’s age and care needs.
Brussels Griffon Dog Most Searched Queries
Explore the most commonly searched questions about Brussels Griffon dogs, including breeds, mixes, coat types, and where to find puppies. This guide provides quick, informative answers for potential owners and enthusiasts alike.
Brussels Griffon dog for Sale
If you’re looking to bring a Brussels Griffon into your home, the AKC Marketplace offers a selection of puppies from reputable breeders. Ensure you choose a breeder who prioritizes health testing and ethical breeding practices.
Brussels Griffon dog Puppies
Brussels Griffon puppies are typically small, weighing between 8–10 pounds as adults. They are known for their expressive faces and affectionate nature. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to harness their intelligence and sensitivity.
Brussels Griffon Breeders
Reputable breeders can be found through the American Brussels Griffon Association. It’s crucial to select breeders who conduct health screenings and adhere to ethical breeding standards to ensure the well-being of the puppies.
Brussels Griffon Short Hair
The Brussels Griffon comes in two coat types: rough and smooth. Smooth-coated Griffons have shorter hair and shed more than their rough-coated counterparts. Regular grooming and brushing can help manage shedding and maintain their coat’s health.
Brussels Griffon Petit Brabançon
The Petit Brabançon is a variety of the Brussels Griffon, characterized by its smooth, short coat and expressive eyes. While similar in temperament to the Brussels Griffon, they require less grooming due to their coat type.
Brussels Griffon dog & Shih Tzu Mix
Known as the “Shiffon,” this mix combines the Brussels Griffon’s alertness with the Shih Tzu’s affectionate nature. They are typically friendly, adaptable, and make excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
Smooth Coat Brussels Griffon
Smooth-coated Brussels Griffons have a sleek, shiny coat that requires less maintenance than the rough-coated variety. They do shed more, especially during seasonal changes, and benefit from regular brushing to manage shedding.
Brussels Griffon Puppies Short Hair
Short-haired Brussels Griffon puppies are less common but are characterized by their smooth, low-maintenance coats. They still require early socialization and training to develop into well-behaved adults.
Brussels Griffon Pug Mix
The Brussels Griffon-Pug mix combines the Griffon’s alertness with the Pug’s playful nature. These dogs are typically affectionate, sociable, and enjoy being around people, making them excellent family pets.
Brussels Griffon Chihuahua Mix
This mix combines the Brussels Griffon’s intelligence with the Chihuahua’s boldness. They are usually confident, alert, and can be a bit feisty, requiring consistent training and socialization.
Brussels Griffon and Shih Tzu Mix
As previously mentioned, the “Shiffon” is a crossbreed between the Brussels Griffon and the Shih Tzu. They are known for their affectionate nature and suitability for apartment living due to their small size and adaptable temperament.
Black Brussels Griffon Puppy
Black Brussels Griffon puppies are rare but are characterized by their sleek, dark coats and expressive faces. Like other Griffons, they are affectionate and enjoy being the center of attention.
Do Brussels Griffon dog shed?
Brussels Griffons have minimal shedding compared to many other breeds. While the rough-coated variety sheds slightly, their small size and manageable coat make them suitable for people who prefer low-shedding dogs. Regular grooming helps keep shedding under control.
Are Brussels Griffons hypoallergenic?
Brussels Griffons are not completely hypoallergenic, but they are considered a low-allergen breed. People with mild allergies may tolerate them well, especially with regular brushing and grooming to reduce loose hair and dander.
How much are Brussels Griffons?
The price of a Brussels Griffon can vary based on lineage, breeder reputation, and location. On average, adult dogs range from $1,200 to $3,000, while rare show-quality dogs or champion bloodlines can cost more.
How much do Brussels Griffon puppies cost?
Brussels Griffon puppies typically cost between $1,500 and $3,000. Puppies from well-known breeders or with specific traits like unique coat types may be priced higher. Always ensure you purchase from a reputable breeder for health guarantees.
Is a Brussels Griffon a good pet?
Yes! Brussels Griffons are affectionate, loyal, and highly social. They bond closely with their owners and adapt well to both apartments and larger homes. They are ideal for families, singles, or seniors looking for a loving companion.
What are the disadvantages of a Brussels Griffon?
Brussels Griffons can have some challenges:
They may be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Their small size makes them delicate around young children.
Grooming needs vary by coat type, and rough coats require regular brushing.1
Are Brussels Griffons yappy?
Brussels Griffons can be vocal, especially when seeking attention or alerting their owners. While not excessively noisy, early training helps control unnecessary barking.
Do Brussels Griffons bark a lot?
They are alert and expressive but usually only bark when there’s a reason, such as visitors or unusual noises. Consistent socialization and training can minimize excessive barking.
Final Words
Brussels Griffon dog are charming, intelligent, and affectionate companions that bring joy to any household. Their low-shedding coats, loyal nature, and playful personality make them a great choice for families, singles, or seniors alike. While they require proper socialization, training, and grooming, the love and companionship they offer are truly rewarding. If you’re considering adding a Brussels Griffon dog to your family, you can explore available puppies from reputable breeders here.