Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are small toy sized dog breed that have a strange and comical look to them. These dogs originated from Belgium where they once hunted small vermin. After being bred with Pugs, Affenpinschers, Yorkshire Terriers and Irish Terriers the modern day Griffon was born. There are three different types that fall under the Brussels Griffon breed: Brussels Griffon, Belgian Griffon and the Petit Griffon. These three vary slightly by coat type differences. The Belgian Griffon has a medium length, wiry coat that fringes around the face. The Brussels Griffon’s coat is wiry and longer than the Belgian’s, and the Petit Griffon has a short smooth coat. Brussels Griffon’s were a rare breed but with appearances in media such as movies and television shows they are becoming easier to find in the United States.
(Brussels Griffon)
Brussels Griffon’s have a big personality that makes them appealing as companion dogs. They are very affectionate, lively, curious little dogs that always keep things entertaining. Because of their odd faces and personality they have been nicknamed “monkey face”. They are a very loving breed and would like nothing more than to snuggle up next to their owner. Brussels Griffon’s get along very well with other dogs and cats if socialized from an early age. They make a good pet for a single owner rather than young family because they tend to bond very strongly to one individual.
(Petit Griffon)
Brussels Griffon’s are rather hardy dogs with few hereditary diseases. Their average life span is between 12-15 years. One issue to be aware of with these dogs is heat stroke. They have a shortened snout that may make it difficult for them to breathe in extreme heat conditions.
Coat colors for all three types include red, black and tan, belge and solid black. The longer coat dogs require more grooming attention while the shorter coat is easily maintained. Because of their wiry hair they shed little to no hair. The average height for a Brussels Griffon is between 7-8 inches and they weigh about 6-12 pounds. Their small size makes them excellent dogs for apartment or small housing conditions.
Famous Brussels Griffon’s
- The dog in the movie First Wives Club
- Tazzie: The Good Companions owned by Stanley Dangerfield
- Monkey: owned by deejay and record label owner Sarah Lewitinn
- Rags: Carter’s dog in Spin City
- Ernie: appeared in the movie Sweet November
- Mrs. Tingle’s dog in Teaching Mrs. Tingle
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