Griffon Bruxellois Dog Breed

Description

Griffon Bruxellois: This little dog was originally the rodent catcher of the stables in Brussels and rode on the hansom cabs as the drivers’ friend. Various breeds are mentioned as having been used to produce the Griffon of today.

Average lifespan

Griffons can live up to 12 14 years of age.

Average size and weight

21cm to 28cm
2kg to 8kg

Breed personality, characteristics & temperament of Griffon Bruxellois

The Griffon Bruxellois is a small dog with definite terrier instincts, and an inflated sense of self worth, however, its arrogant expression belies its loving and amiable disposition. The Griffon is very much what you make it. If you have children, the dog will enjoy their games and going for energetic walks. If you are older and your daily pursuits are more leisurely, the dog will grow up more sedate and become a close and loving friend. Griffons are very trainable and many have obedience and agility titles.

Griffon Bruxellois Compatibility with other pets

Excellent.

Care requirements

There are two distinct types of Griffon, the Griffon Bruxellois, the rough-coated variety with the whiskers and beard, and the smooth-coated Petit Brabancon.

The rough coated Griffon requires regular grooming with a brush and comb. Twice a year it will need its coat either hand stripped (for showing) or perhaps clipped if it is a pet. Smooth-coated Griffons do not need the same coat care as do the Roughs, so if you are taken with the Griffon character, but feel you could not manage the longer coat, then a Smooth is the right dog for you. Be careful about using flea collars on your Griffon and always air them out well before putting them on your dog. For mealtimes a good small-sized portion of dry food mixed with canned food is ideal. Griffons will take just about as much exercise as most owners are willing to give, but are also content to be couch potatoes.

Please take note

Potential breeders should be aware that rearing Griffon puppies is often not easy but once they reach six weeks of age they develop into tough little dogs with few problems.

Ideal owners

A Griffon is a very adaptable little dog that will fit very well into considerate families with young children, as well as being the ideal companion for older people