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The Brussels Griffon is a breed most memorable for its unique and
distinguishing look. The trio of wide set eyes, flat face and
prominent chin coupled with their cheerful terrier disposition has
won the dog a small but dedicated following. Its expression is
commonly said to characterize that of an elf or monkey. Reaching
back into their 17th century beginnings in Belgium, the small
Brussels Griffon was bred to rid stables of vermin, just as many
small breeds were back in the day. However, their diminutive stature
and endearing character made them suitable for accompanying coach
drivers on their routes from time to time. Soon, their reputation as
a companion animal grew between the working class and nobility until
they were presented in a dog show sometime in the late 1800's. Their
popularity grew further from there as a number of breeders also took
interest in the dog, boosting its numbers. However, during World War
I and II, the breed dwindled to near extinction. With virtually no
Griffons left in Belgium, breeders in other parts of Europe helped
to bring numbers back up, although barely. Interest in the Brussels
Griffon peaks form time to time with occasional appearances on
movies or TV.
General Appearance
A toy dog, intelligent, alert, sturdy, with a thickset, short body,
a smart carriage and set-up, attracting attention by an almost human
expression. The Griffon is a sturdy toy dog of square proportions
with a domed head, undershot jaw, very short nose and lustrous eyes.
The head is large in comparison to the body. To some viewers he
resembles a miniature Boxer. There are two distinct types of coat:
rough or smooth. Except for coat, there is no difference between the
two. The rough coat is wiry and dense, the harder and more wiry the
better. On no account should the dog look or feel woolly, and there
should be no silky hair anywhere. The coat should not be so long as
to give a shaggy appearance, but should be distinctly different all
over from the smooth coat. The head should be covered with wiry
hair, slightly longer around the eyes, nose, cheeks, and chin, thus
forming a fringe. The rough coat is hand-stripped and should never
appear unkempt. Body coat of sufficient length to determine texture.
Ears are generally cropped and the tail is docked and carried high,
though cropping the ears is optional.
Temperament
Alert and intelligent, the Brussels Griffon is a delightful toy dog
that is ideal for a companion dog. Spirited and curious, this is a
dog that can be very comical and entertaining when he wants to be,
but will also be happy to snuggle up on the lap of his owner. These
dogs are independent and can have something of a manipulative streak
if not properly trained and managed, but he is also sensitive,
intelligent, and fun to be around. The Brussels Griffon does get on
with children, but is better around older children who are more
considerate, as boisterous younger children could put him in danger
due to his small size. When it comes to strangers the Brussels
Griffon may be friendly or nervous depending on his personality. He
tends to get along with other pets, although he may be way of and
even aggressive with strange dogs if he feels challenged by them.
The Brussels Griffon is a lively and obedient dog, but doesn't like
to be teased. These dogs are better suited to those with some
experience of dog ownership. The Brussels Griffon can also have a
jealous streak, and when it comes to his toys and food he can be
very possessive. Training the Brussels Griffon should be okay
providing you have confidence and use the right training methods,
but this breed is difficult to housebreak.
Grooming
Shedding very little, this breed does need a lot
of maintenance on the coat. The Griffon comes in either a
rough coat or smooth coat, each requiring its own amount of upkeep.
The rough coat is one that sheds less than the smooth coat but a
rough coat also requires hand stripping. Clipping is sorely advised
against when it comes to a rough coat. Hand stripping is the act of
removing blown, or dead grown out hair, by grasping hairs between
the forefinger and thumb and gently removing in the direction of the
hair growth. The hair comes out easily without any stress to the
animal. The result is a smoother, more even coat. It is not a
difficult task, although for the untrained individual, it can span
over a day to complete
Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of the Brussels Griffon is around 12-15 years.
There are a number of illnesses and health problems that are
associated with the breed, and this includes luxating patella,
Legg
Perthes, seizures, heart problems, and cataracts.
Activity Level
A lively and hyperactive breed, they still do
not require much activity. The Brussels Griffon gets most of his
exercise in the home. This dog does enjoy short walks and will do
just fine without a yard.
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