BRUSSELS GRIFFON
APPEARANCE
The Griffons are generally small, with a flat face, prominent chin, and large wide-set eyes that give the Griffon an almost human expression. They are sturdy toy dogs with thick-set, well-balanced bodies, giving a squared appearance in proportion when viewed from the side. This small dog comes in two varieties - one is the rough coated Brussels Griffon, and the other the smooth coated Brussels Griffon. Colours are red, beige (mixed reddish brown and black), black and tan, or black. The Brussels Griffon comes to around 7-8 inches in height and is also 8-10 pounds in weight.
PERSONALITY
The Griffon is known to have a huge heart, and a strong desire to snuggle and be with his master. Griffons are alert, inquisitive and interested in their surroundings. Griffons tend to bond with one human more than others. These dogs are independent and can have something of a manipulative streak if not properly trained and managed, but he is also sensitive, intelligent, and fun to be around.
TRAINING
This dog is very easy to train because of its eagerness to please. For the most part, obedience training is an easy task, especially since the Griffon has the opportunity to bond even more with the owner. As many have found, housebreaking a Griffon can prove to be somewhat difficult, although not impossible. Classes that offer alternative disciplining measures are a best bet for owners and their Griffons. Gentle training methods for this breed are a must.
EXERCISE
Exercise requirements for the Brussels Griffon are modest and can be satisfied with a short walk every day. The Griffon shows adept skill at weaving in and out of small spaces and also ducking under and jumping over small obstacles.
SOCIALIZATION
Griffon can be wary of strangers and may feel threatened. He may abruptly snap at the stranger out of sheer nature. Socialization at an early age can also help keep this to a minimum. He tends to get along with other pets, although he may be way of and even aggressive with strange dogs if he feels challenged by them. The Brussels Griffon does get on with children, but is better around older children who are more considerate.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Griffon is a great choice for people who want a small indoor dog. This dog will always be popular with city dwellers and people without much living space. Brussels Griffon make ideal apartment dogs and lap warmers.
GROOMING
The rough coat is one that sheds less than the smooth coat but a rough coat also requires hand stripping. Facial hair is often lightly trimmed and shaped with scissors. For smooth coats, the regular use of a grooming mitt can keep seasonal shedding down to a minimum. Folds in the skin on the face of a smooth coated dog should be inspected and cleaned regularly. For Griffons with facial hair, it is also necessary to comb through whiskers from time to time to remove food particles and prevent matting.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Brussels Griffon is around 12-15 years. This dog is generally very healthy, and the only health problems to really watch out for are eye problems such as cataracts, distichiasis and progressive retinal atrophy, canine hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and weak bladder.
HISTORY
The Brussels Griffon originated from Brussels in Belgium, and this breed used to be found hunting vermin in stables. In the 1880s the Brussels Griffon was introduced in England and America. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1910.
