by Raven Lebeau

Created on: February 27, 2009   Last Updated: December 19, 2011

The Brussels Griffon is classified by the American Kennel Club as a toy dog, which means the breed is prized primarily for companionship as opposed to skills such as herding or retrieving. Weighing between six and twelve pounds, the Brussels Griffon is an ideal pet for prospective owners who want to avoid the difficulties associated with handling a large-breed dog.

The American Kennel Club describes the Brussels Griffon as having an "almost human expression," characterized by its large, wide-set eyes, domed skull, and deep-set, upturned nose. The luminous black eyes are rimmed with thick lashes, and generally have an alert appearance that gives the impression of intelligence and attentiveness. The ideal Brussels Griffon has a square, thickset body and is sturdy and muscular.

The coat of a Brussels Griffon is wiry rather than silky or woolly and is generally kept long for show purposes. The color can be red, beige, black-and-tan, or solid black. White markings, other than white hairs due to natural aging, will disqualify a Brussels Griffon for show.

Overall, the Brussels Griffon looks something like a shaggy version of a pug, which is not a coincidence. According to the American Brussels Griffon Association, the breed originated in Belgium in the mid 1800's. Stablemen crossed pugs with wire-coated stable dogs and English toy spaniels in order to produce small dogs that were used as ratters. The result was the Brussels Griffon, and though the breed's original job of stable rat-chaser is now obsolete, the breed remains popular because if its small size, appealing appearance, and pleasant temperament.

The Brussels Griffon, like other small breed dogs, has generally robust health; in fact, Brussels Griffons generally live 12-15 years. However, there are a few health problems common to the breed. Puppies are sometimes born with a cleft palate, a condition that prevents them from being able to nurse and usually results in starvation. Cataracts and glaucoma are also common health problems for Brussels Griffons. More recently, breeders have recognized a disturbing rate of Syringomyelia (SM), a condition characterized by build up of fluid in spinal cavities. This disease results in chronic neck and back pain for the dog. Its primary symptom is a tendency of the affected animal to scratch its neck.

In temperament, Brussels Griffons are generally easy-going and can get along with other dogs, cats, and ferrets if properly socialized. However, Brussels Griffons tend to become highly attached to one individual and will be unhappy if left alone for long periods of time. They are not a good choice for large families or for households where no one is home most of the time.

For those interested in owning a Brussels Griffon, the National Brussels Griffon Rescue Group is a good place to start. This organization helps match prospective owners with Brussels Griffons in need of a good home. PetFinder.com is another good resource that allows you to search for a specific breed to adopt. Your local shelter and the classified listings in your local newspaper are also good ways to find a pet.

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