BRUSSELS GRIFFON (AKC Toy Group) Height: averages 8 inches. Weight: 8 to 12 pounds. Size: Very Small. Availability: Very difficult to find. History: In the early 1800's, small terriers were often kept as ratters in stables in Belgium. The Brussels Griffon probably resulted from a crosses between these native ratter terriers and the Pug and English Toy Spaniel. Today's Brussels Griffon is primarily a companion dog. Description: A sturdy toy dog of square proportions with a domed head, undershot jaw, very short nose and lustrous eyes. The Brussels Griffon's pout gives him an almost human expression. To some viewers he resembles a miniature Boxer. There are two types, Rough-Coated (harsh wiry and dense), and Smooth-Coated or Brabancon variety (short, straight, glossy). The Brabancon needs less grooming. Comes in red, a mixture of red-brown and black, black and tan, and solid black. Ears are generally cropped and the tail is docked, though cropping the ears is optional. Notes: Difficult to breed. Dams often require Cesarean section for whelping. May be a gluttonous or picky eater. Can be difficult to housebreak. Some bloodlines are prone to slipped stifle, eye and respiratory problems. Personality: Intelligent, willful and high-strung, but charming. Unusually sensitive and quite demanding--this breed loves to be spoiled. Must be raised in the house with the family. Good with other dogs and even with cats. Behavior: Children: Best with older, considerate children. Friendliness: Loves everyone. Trainability: Easy to train. Independence: Needs people a lot. Dominance: High. Other Pets: Generally good with other pets. Combativeness: Friendly with other dogs. Noise: Likes to bark. Grooming and Physical Needs: Grooming: Regular grooming needed. Trimming & Stripping: Skilled trimming or stripping needed. Coat: Medium coat. Shedding: Very light. Docking: Both ears and tail are customarily docked. Exercise: Very little exercise needed. Jogging: A fair jogging companion. Indoors: Very active indoors. Apartments: Good for apartment living. Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard. Climate: Does well in most climates. Owner: Good for novice owners. Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years). Talents: watchdog, and performing tricks. For More Information: Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute. Photo Caption: BRUSSELS GRIFFON Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.