Brussels Griffon

Originating in Brussels, Belgium, the breed developed from stable ratters (Affenpinscher/Smousje types) crossed with toy spaniels and Pugs, creating the expressive face and compact companion we know today. The breed diverged into rough-coated and smooth-coated varieties and gained popularity in the late 19th century among city dwellers and European nobility. Modern Griffs are cherished worldwide as spirited, loyal companions and fun sport dogs (obedience, rally, agility).

A toy companion with a human-like expression and compact, square build.

• Weight: 7–12 lb (3–5.5 kg)
• Height: 7–10 in (18–25 cm)
• Coat Type: Rough (wiry, with undercoat) or Smooth (short, tight, glossy)
• Coat Colours: Red; Belge (black with reddish-brown mix); Black & Tan; Black
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Large, dark eyes; short muzzle; prominent beard/mustache (rough); small high-set ears; level topline; jaunty, confident gait

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Low coat volume, but face and (for rough) hand-stripping matter.

• Rough Coat:
  • Brushing/Combing: 2×/week; line-comb furnishings to the skin
  • Hand-Stripping: Every 8–12 weeks to maintain harsh texture & minimal shedding
• Smooth Coat:
  • Brushing: 1×/week with rubber curry; more during seasonal shed
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks; fully dry face/beard
• Face Care: Wipe eyes/face 3–5×/week; keep beard clean to prevent dermatitis
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 3–4×/week; trim nails every 2–4 weeks
• Shedding: Low (rough, hand-stripped) / Low–Moderate (smooth)

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A playful toy with moderate stamina.

• Daily Duration: 30–45 minutes total (split walks + indoor play)
• Great Activities: Trick training, scent games, short fetch, obedience/rally, agility at low jumps
• Suitability: Excellent for apartments/condos; protect from heat and extreme cold

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Bright, sensitive, and people-focused—keep it upbeat and brief.

• Method: Positive reinforcement; 3–8 minute sessions; vary rewards (food/toys/play)
• Focus Areas: House training consistency, “quiet” on cue, polite greetings, recall, cooperative care (beard/eyes/nails)
• Socialization: Gentle, early exposure to people/dogs/surfaces; avoid overwhelming sessions

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Small dog, big appetite—measure portions and protect dental health.

• Food Type: High-quality toy/small-breed formula or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~½–1¼ cups/day total, split into two meals (adjust to size/activity)
• Diet Advice: Maintain BCS 4–5/9; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/coat; choose dental-friendly kibble/chews and brush regularly

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Seek transparency on health, temperament, and grooming—or consider rescue.

• Breeders: Choose CKC-affiliated preservation breeders who show patella/eye/heart results, explain rough hand-stripping, and offer lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Toy-breed and Griffon-specific rescues; ask about dental/eye/airway history
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; Brussels Griffon Club of Canada; local obedience/rally/agility clubs (ON/BC/QC/AB

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Generally long-lived; some toy/short-muzzle issues to watch.

• Common Issues: Patellar luxation, dental crowding/tartar, corneal injury/dry eye (prominent eyes), brachycephalic airway tendency (heat sensitivity), allergies/skin fold dermatitis (some), heart murmur/mitral valve disease (some lines)
• Less Common/Reported: Chiari-like malformation/syringomyelia in some toy brachy breeds—ask about family history
• Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Patellas, ophthalmologist (CAER) exams, cardiac exam; discuss airway/eye history and bite/dental management

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Are Brussels Griffons good apartment dogs?
Yes—compact, people-oriented, and satisfied with 30–45 minutes of daily activity.

Are Brussels Griffons hypoallergenic?
No. Rough coats shed very little when hand-stripped, but the breed isn’t truly hypoallergenic.

Do Brussels Griffons bark a lot?
They can be alert barkers. Teach a reliable “quiet” and provide enrichment.

Rough vs Smooth—what’s the difference in grooming and shedding?
Rough: hand-strip every 8–12 weeks; lowest shed. Smooth: easier routine, more visible shed seasonally.

How much exercise does a Griffon need?
About 30–45 minutes daily plus brain work (tricks, scent games).

Are Brussels Griffons good with kids and other pets?
Yes with gentle handling and early socialization; supervise due to small size and protect prominent eyes.

Do Brussels Griffons have breathing issues?
Some can be heat/airway sensitive (short muzzle). Keep them lean, use a harness, and avoid heat/hard exertion.

How hard is house training?
They’re smart but sensitive; stick to a schedule, reward outdoors immediately, and manage with a crate/pen between trips.

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