Brussels Griffon Dogs | Iams Dog Breed Guide

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Brussels Griffon

(AKC Toy Group)

Height: Averages 8 inches.

Size: Very small.

Weight: 8 to 12 pounds.

Availability: Very difficult to find.

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.

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.

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.

Talents:

Watchdog, and performing tricks.

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.
Indoors: Very active indoors.
Owner: Good for novice owners.

Grooming and Physical Needs:

Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: Skilled trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Medium coat.
Shedding: Very light.
Docking: The ears are customarily cropped, and the tail is customarily docked.
Exercise: Very little exercise needed.
Jogging: A fair jogging companion.
Apartments: Good for apartment living.
Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).

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