Brussels Griffon

History    A product of Belbium, the Brussels Griffon's forebears were probaly the Affenpinscher and a Belgain street dog, the Griffon's d'Ecurie (Stable Griffin). The breed gained favor as a guard of cabs in Brussels, where its cocky but comic demeanor was probly more effective at attracting riders than dissuading robbers. In the late 1800's this mixture was then crossed with the Pug, at that time extremely popular in neighboring Holland.The Pug crosses account for the brachycehalic head type and for the smooth-coated individuals of the breed, known then (and still in some countries) as the Petit Brabancon. Although the smooths were initially destroyed (after all, griffon means wiry), they were soon after accepted. By 1880, the breed was sufficiently established to be recognized at Belgain dog shows. Aroundthis same time there is some suggestion that additiional crosses were made with the Yorkshire Terrier and English Toy Spaniel, the latter further contributing to the Brussels Griffin's Head configurtion. By the early 1900s, the little street urchin risen to the heights of popularity in Belgium and found itself in great demand by nobility. Although its numbers were decimated by World War1, the breed recovered and has since gained ardent admirers around the world. In some countries, only the red rough-coated are classified as the Brussels Griffon; black rough-coated dogs are known as the Belgian Griffon; and smooth-coated dogs are known as the Petit Brabancon.

Temperament  The spunky Brussels Griffon is full of itself, Briming with self-confidence and gusto. It is bol, playful, stubborn, and mischievous. It is usually good with other dogs and pets. It tends to bark and climb, and and sometimes can be escape artists. It make a saucy combpanion for a family wanting an entertaining, sensitive pet. However, sensitivity and size make it a poor choice for families with young children. It can be difficult to house-train and may suffer from separation anxiety.

Upkeep The Brussel Griffon is an active breed, aways on look out for action. It needs daily mental and physical stimulation, but its small size makes such stimulation possible with a robust indoor game. Its also enjoys a short walk on leash, This breed cannot live outside, although it appreciates the opportunity to spend time in the yard. The rough coat needs combing two or three times weekly, plus shaping by stripping every three months. Grooming for the smooth coat is minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to remove dead hair.

Form and Function The Brussels Griffons is square-proportioned, thickset, and compact. It has good bone for its size. Its movement is a purposeful trot, with moderate reach and drive. In temperament it is full of selfimportance., and its carriage reflects this attitude. It almost human expreeion attracts attention and admirers. Its coat can be rough, with hard wiry hair,which is longer around the head; or smooth, with a short glossy coat.

Color: red, belge (mixed reddish brown and black), black and tan, or black