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| Category: Animal Care |
Date published: October 30, 2006 |
 The Brussels Griffon has an abundance of monikers, among which are the Griffon Bruxellois, Belgian Griffon, Petite Brabancon, and Griffon Belge. In Europe the Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois) is a reddish-pin in color and rough coated. The Belgain Griffon (Griffon Belge) is black, black and tan, or red and is also rough coated. The Petite Brabancon is accepted in the same colors as the other griffons, but is shorthaired. Now after all that, one can just remember that all varieties are shown in common classes in the United States and in the UK, but in Europe they are differentiated by color and coat type.
The coat care of a Brussels Griffon depends on whether the Griffon is rough or smooth coated. A rough coat requires regular combing and every few months the facial hair needs plucking. This plucking of the facial hair gives the dog its typical appearance.
I say the Brussels Griffon is humorous-appearing because of its pointed ears and sharp looking eyes and well.....just humorous-appearing.
The Brussels Griffon was developed in Belgium from crosses between the Affenpinscher and the Griffon D'Ecurie or Stable Griffons that were sometimes called chiens barbus. The popular peasant's dog was developed in and around farms and stables to control rodent populations. I guess it was a real good mouse catcher in the beginning! Some authors speculate that the Yorkshire Terrier, Black and Tan Terrier and Tuby Spaniel were included in the Affenpinscher-Stable Griffon gene pool that produced the Brussels Griffon. Yet another writer traces the Brussels ancestors to include the Barbet and Hollandsche Smoushound. Pugs were also developed nearby in the Netherlands and were crossed into this mixture. This cross might account for the smooth variety or Petite Brabancon that strongly resembles the Pug.
The attitude of a Brussels Griffon is one of an exceptionally intelligent dog. The Brussels Griffon is athletic enough to participate in obedience and agility trials. The Brussels Griffon is quite easy to train and therefore could probably make a good therapy dog. They are usually sensitive to cold weather and should wear a coat or sweater when going outside in cold weather. The Brussels Griffon is a curious little dog and perhaps a bit mischievous (another trait I can see in its eyes, which makes me think the Brussels Griffon is quite humorous-appearing). He can also be described as calm and eager to please, and as stated before, easy to train. He may show a bit of a stubborn streak according to some writers about the Brussels Griffon's attitude. It is said even today household rodents are at high risk wherever a Brussel Griffon dwells. This little dog does bond snugly with its principal owner or handler, but can extend its love toward every family member.
Generally the Brussels Griffon is said to be lovable, funny, active and an intelligent family companion. The Brussels Griffon socializes well with adults and children. He may be a bit wary of toddlers if not properly introduced.
A Brussels Griffon exercise requirements are minimal and can usually be fulfilled in the backyard and probably would thoroughly enjoy walks through the countryside whenever possible. He is well suited for apartment or suburban living as well.
He is a small breed that stands about 7 to 8 inches tall and weighs 8 to 12 pounds. Take a close look at the Brussels Griffon's face and you will see an almost human expression and a resemblance to its Affenpinscher heritage as well. His body is thick and short and sort of looks square in appearance and his legs are straight. I again see a very humorous-appearing breed of a toy dog. I can't help but think, however, how sort of sweet and cute he looks through his eyes and other facial features. And since I don't like cats, this little dog would be my second choice (to regular mouse traps) for catching mice around the house!
Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.abouttoydogs.com About Toy Dogs is a guide to the selection and care of toy dog breeds. We feature articles, dog training resources, dog books, dog supplies and a toy dog breeder directory. Purchase ad space at the rate of $25 per year for a full page ad for one year. Sign up for our FREE bi-weekly newsletter.
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