Brussels Griffon
Also known as: Griffon Bruxellois, Belgian Griffon, Griff
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
8-10 lbs
Height (Male)
7-10 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Brussels Griffon is a charming, sensitive toy breed with an almost human expression. These little Belgian dogs have big personalities and form intense bonds with their chosen people.
History
Developed in Brussels, Belgium, from small terrier-type dogs used as ratters in stables. Crossed with Pugs and English Toy Spaniels. Come in rough-coated (Griffon Bruxellois) and smooth-coated (Petit Brabancon) varieties. AKC recognized in 1910.
Appearance
A small, sturdy toy dog with a distinctive flat face and large, expressive eyes. Rough-coated variety has a wiry, tousled coat; smooth variety has a sleek coat. Undershot jaw gives them their unique expression.
Temperament
Sensitive, affectionate, and full of self-importance. Brussels Griffons form incredibly strong bonds with their owners. They are alert, curious, and surprisingly bossy for their tiny size.
Personality Around Others
Velcro dogs—extremely attached to their owner. Can be one-person dogs. Sensitive to changes. May be timid with strangers. Good with gentle children.
Exercise Needs
Low exercise needs. Short walks and indoor play. Don't need much outdoor activity. Content with moderate movement.
Training
Sensitive and responds to gentle methods. Positive reinforcement only. Can be stubborn. Short sessions work best.
Grooming
Rough coat needs regular brushing and hand-stripping. Smooth coat needs weekly brushing. Facial wrinkles need cleaning.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Brachycephalic breed with respiratory concerns. Eye injuries due to prominent eyes. Regular health screening.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patellar Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
Average Annual Vet Cost
$500-$1,000
Nutrition
Quality toy-breed food. Small portions twice daily. May be picky eaters. Monitor weight.
Living Environment
Perfect apartment dogs. Small, quiet, adaptable. Need human company. Not outdoor dogs.
Ideal Family
Devoted owners wanting a close companion. Not for homes with very young children. Those who can be home often.
Intelligence
Intelligent and perceptive. They read emotions well. Quick to learn but may choose not to obey. Manipulative charmers.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Can be vocal when anxious or wanting attention. Separation anxiety can cause barking.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Low shedding for rough-coated variety. Smooth variety sheds more. Regular grooming helps.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Made famous by the movie As Good As It Gets with Jack Nicholson
Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium bred Brussels Griffons
Their human-like expression is unique in the dog world
Come in both rough and smooth coat varieties
Nearly went extinct after both World Wars
Famous Dogs
Verdell
The Brussels Griffon who stole scenes in As Good As It Gets (1997) with Jack Nicholson
Queen Marie Henriette's Griffons
The Belgian queen championed the breed, making them fashionable in European courts
Common Myths
"They're too delicate for a pet"
While small, Brussels Griffons are sturdy, confident dogs with plenty of personality
"They all have rough coats"
Brussels Griffons come in both rough-coated and smooth-coated varieties
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they have separation anxiety?
Yes—they bond intensely with their owners and can struggle when left alone. Gradual alone-time training helps.
Are they good with children?
Best with gentle, older children. Their small size and sensitivity make them less suited to rowdy households.
Puppy Guide
Griffon puppies are tiny and sensitive. Handle gently. Socialize carefully. Bond-building is key.
Senior Care
Senior Griffons are devoted companions. Watch for respiratory and eye issues. Gentle exercise.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$13,000-$20,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Deeply devoted
Unique expression
Great apartment dog
Big personality
Low exercise needs
Cons
Separation anxiety
Fragile size
Can be demanding
Not good with rough children
Respiratory issues