Griffon Bruxellois
🧠 Temperament & character
The Griffon Bruxellois is lively, attentive and self-assured, while also very affectionate and people-oriented. With its almost human facial expression it often comes across like a little clown and loves to be the centre of attention. Towards strangers it is alert and gives reliable warning without barking excessively. As a clever little character it needs consistent, friendly training so that it does not run rings around you.
📜 Origin & history
The Griffon Bruxellois developed in 19th-century Brussels from small wire-haired stable dogs that hunted rats in coach houses and stables. Through the crossing-in of the Affenpinscher, Pug and King Charles Spaniel, the size, expression and coat varieties of today's breed emerged. Queen Marie-Henriette of Belgium was an enthusiastic admirer and helped the little Griffon to prestige and popularity. Together with the Griffon Belge and the smooth-haired Petit Brabançon, it forms a group of closely related Belgian toy dogs.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The red, wire-haired coat is regularly trimmed (hand-stripped), not clipped, so that texture and colour are preserved; in between, occasional brushing is enough. The Griffon Bruxellois has a moderate need for exercise, which daily walks and play cover well. It is intelligent and eager to learn and even shines in dog sports such as obedience or trick training. Because of its sensitivity, training should always be friendly, consistent and motivating.
🩺 Health
The Griffon Bruxellois has a life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. As a slightly short-headed breed it can suffer from breathing and eye problems, and births often take place by caesarean section because of the large puppy heads. Patellar luxation and syringomyelia also occur. Reputable breeders pay attention to free breathing, healthy eyes and examined kneecaps, and avoid excessively short noses.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Griffon Bruxellois is suited to people who want a small, clever and cuddly companion with plenty of personality. It fits well into an apartment as well as with seniors, couples and families with older children who respect its sensitivity. As a people-oriented dog it copes poorly with being left alone for longer. In Switzerland it is a pleasant city dog that should be protected from heat in summer because of its mild short-headedness.