<b>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.
<b>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.
<b>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.
<b>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.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Loves everyone.
<C>Trainability:</C> Easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Needs people a lot.
<C>Dominance:</C> High.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Friendly with other dogs.
<C>Noise:</C> Likes to bark.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Regular grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> Skilled trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Medium coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Very light.
<C>Docking:</C> Both ears and tail are customarily docked.
<C>Exercise:</C> Very little exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A fair jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Very active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
<b>Talents:</> watchdog, and performing tricks.
<b>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.
<b>Photo Caption:</> BRUSSELS GRIFFON
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
