BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION
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Breed Registries:
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
*** — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 339 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
Origin:
Belgium
Weight:
The "small" class dogs and bitches should not exceed 7 lbs. (3 kg)
The "large" class dogs and bitches weigh more than 7 lbs (3 kg) but should not exceed 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
Breed Profile:
The Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois) breed, native to Belgium, is believed to be the result of crossing a variety of Toy breeds in the early 19th century, including Affenpinscher-type dogs, the Pug and the English Toy Spaniel.
In appearance, the Griffon has a flat face, prominent chin and large wide-set eyes. He has a square and sturdy body and comes in one of two coat types: either harsh and wiry or smooth and tight. Both types are reddish brown, black and reddish brown, black with red-brown markings, or solid black.
He is very intelligent, alert, sensitive, and curious. He was bred to be the ultimate companion and is extremely devoted to his family, affectionate and adaptable. Despite his small size, his spirited nature makes him a very alert watchdog. Aggressive behaviour towards him can result in his responding by trying to defend himself.
Health Issues
If you are considering the adoption of a Brussels Griffon puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. The National Brussels Griffon Club recommends that breeding stock be screened and certified free from hereditary eye defects, patella luxation and hip dysplasia. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
- Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) — Providing a source of health information for owners, breeders, and scientists that will assist in breeding healthy dogs. CHIC is a centralized canine health database jointly sponsored by the AKC/Canine Health Foundation (AKC/CHF) and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
- Health and Nutrition — Growing section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website which includes information on several health and nutrition related issues.
- AKC Canine Health Foundation — Working towards developing scientific advances in canine health.
- Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
- Ontario Veterinary College (OVC)
- University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHip)
- HealthGene — HealthGene Corporation is the leading provider of veterinary DNA diagnostic services in Canada.
Breed Standards
- CKC Breed Standard
- AKC Breed Standard
- UKC Breed Standard
- The American Brussels Griffon Club Illustrated Breed Standard
- The Kennel Club (U.K.) Breed Standard
- FCI Standard No. 80/05.05.2003/GB
AKC BRUSSELS GRIFFON DVD
19 Min. DVD Edition, published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Grooming Information
The Brussels Griffon comes in two coat types — the rough and the smooth. The smooth coated dog should be brushed regularly and during seasonal shedding, more frequent brushing and baths are recommended. The rough coated dog does not shed and requires clipping about every three months. Regular grooming and daily brushing also helps remove the dead hairs. For conformation showing, the rough coated Griffon is hand stripped.
- Grooming — This section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
Training Resources
The Griffon is known as a breed who can be difficult to housetrain. He is, however, very easily trained in obedience provided that proper training methods are used. The breed is very intelligent but sensitive and, like many breeds, responds best to positive training methods using praise, treats, consistency and patience.
- Toy Breeds—Housebreaking
- Training — For training information, see this growing section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
Additional Information
- The Brussels Griffon Forum — Created in 2000 in order to provide an online global community where breeders/exhibitors, novices and dedicated companion owners would have the opportunity to converse freely on topics of mutual interest concerning the Griffon.
- 10 Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog
- Toy Breeds—Selecting the Perfect Pooch
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — For information on the many sports and activities you can get involved in with your dog.
- Working Dogs — The Working Dogs section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website provides information and listings of organizations that are involved in various dog jobs, such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Protection Dogs, and much more.
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Select from the following links to view Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and other Merchandise specific to the breed: |
