Griffon Bruxellois Breed Profile (Australian-Based)

Overview: The Griffon Bruxellois, often referred to as the Brussels Griffon, is a small, toy breed with an expressive, almost human-like face. Originally from Belgium, this breed has grown in popularity in Australia for its lively, affectionate nature and suitability to a variety of living environments. Known for their charming personality, Griffons are ideal for those seeking a loyal companion dog that thrives on attention and involvement in family life. Despite their small size, their big personalities shine through, making them standout companions in any home.

History: The Griffon Bruxellois was initially bred in Belgium to hunt and eliminate rats from stables, a common function for small terrier-like breeds. It’s believed that the breed developed from a mix of the Affenpinscher and other small breeds like the Pug and King Charles Spaniel. Their rise in popularity began when Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium became captivated by the breed, which boosted their status and brought them into the homes of the Belgian elite.

The breed made its way to Australia in the early 1900s, where it has been steadily growing in popularity. Australian breeders have worked to maintain the breed’s distinctive look and temperament, ensuring that Griffon Bruxellois found in Australia today meet the highest standards set by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC). Despite being relatively rare, their loyal following among dog enthusiasts has helped establish a solid breeding community within the country.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Small
  • Height: 20–28 cm
  • Weight: 3–5 kg
• Coat: Two coat varieties:
  • Rough Coat: This coat is wiry and longer, requiring more grooming attention to maintain its texture. Regular hand-stripping or trimming by a professional groomer is recommended.
  • Smooth Coat: The smooth variety is sleek and short, making it easier to groom. A weekly brushing is usually sufficient to keep the coat healthy.
• Colours: The breed comes in a variety of colours, including red, black, black and tan, and beige. These colours are accepted under the ANKC breed standards.
• Distinctive Features: Perhaps the most defining feature of the Griffon Bruxellois is their expressive face, often described as having a “monkey-like” or “grumpy” appearance, which adds to their charm. Their large, dark eyes and short muzzle are prominent features that make them highly recognisable.

Temperament and Personality:

Griffon Bruxellois are known for their affectionate, loyal, and often comical personalities. They form incredibly strong bonds with their human family and are often happiest when they can be close to their owner, earning them the nickname “Velcro dogs.” This breed is well-suited to individuals or families looking for a devoted companion that thrives on interaction and attention.

• Affectionate and Loyal: Griffons are very loving and thrive in a home where they can be a central part of daily activities. They often form deep attachments to one person, but they are generally friendly with all family members.
• Playful and Intelligent: Griffons have a lively and curious nature. They enjoy playtime, games, and mental challenges, making them excellent candidates for interactive toys and training exercises. Despite their small size, they can be full of energy and enjoy active play with their owners.
• Sensitivity and Independence: While affectionate, the Griffon Bruxellois can also be independent and sometimes sensitive to their environment. They do not respond well to harsh training methods, so patience and positive reinforcement are crucial to their training success.
• Socialisation: Proper socialisation from a young age is important for Griffons. Without it, they may become wary or aloof around strangers or in unfamiliar environments. Early exposure to various people, pets, and situations will help them grow into confident, well-adjusted adults.

Training and Exercise Needs:

Though small, the Griffon Bruxellois is a breed with moderate energy levels and an active mind. They enjoy learning new commands and tricks, but their sensitive nature means they need a gentle, positive approach to training.

• Training: Griffons are intelligent and can excel in obedience training, but they may have a stubborn streak. They respond well to consistent, reward-based training methods. They are known to enjoy dog sports like agility and obedience trials, which are becoming more popular in Australia. Early socialisation and basic training will ensure that they develop into well-mannered adults.
• Exercise Needs: While they don’t require the level of exercise that larger breeds do, they still need daily walks and interactive play to stay healthy and happy. A brisk walk once or twice a day, combined with some playtime indoors, is usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or interactive games, is just as important for this intelligent breed to prevent boredom.
• Boredom and Behavioural Issues: Griffons can develop undesirable behaviours, such as excessive barking or chewing, if left unstimulated or ignored for long periods. Ensuring they have adequate mental and physical stimulation is key to a well-balanced Griffon.

Living Conditions:

Griffon Bruxellois are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to larger homes. As long as they receive adequate attention and exercise, they will be content in almost any setting.

• Apartment Living: Due to their small size and moderate exercise needs, Griffons are well-suited to apartment living. However, they do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods, so potential owners should be able to provide them with companionship during the day or consider a pet-sitting service.
• Separation Anxiety: Griffons can become very attached to their owners and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too often or for long periods. They are best suited to households where someone is home most of the time or where they can have another dog for company.
• Climate Considerations: The breed’s brachycephalic (short-nosed) features make them more prone to overheating, especially in Australia’s warmer climates. Owners should take care to walk them during cooler parts of the day and ensure they have plenty of water and shade in the summer.

Health and Lifespan:

The Griffon Bruxellois is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain genetic health issues.

• Common Health Issues:
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome: Due to their flat faces, Griffons can suffer from breathing difficulties, particularly in hot weather or when over-exerted. Owners should be cautious in extreme temperatures.
  • Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates, common in smaller breeds.
  • Hip Dysplasia: Though less common in toy breeds, it can occasionally affect Griffons.
  • Eye Problems: Their large eyes can make them prone to conditions such as cataracts or corneal ulcers.
  • Syringomyelia: This is a more serious condition affecting the brain and spinal cord, which can cause pain and mobility issues. Ethical Australian breeders should screen for this condition.
• Lifespan: 12–15 years.
• Preventative Care: Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight will help mitigate many of these issues. Owners should also ensure that their Griffon receives routine dental care, as smaller breeds can be prone to dental issues.

Grooming:

Grooming needs vary depending on the coat type (rough or smooth), but both require regular maintenance to keep them looking and feeling their best.

• Rough Coat: Requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Rough-coated Griffons also benefit from hand-stripping, a grooming technique used to maintain the wiry texture of their coat. This can be done by a professional groomer every few months.
• Smooth Coat: Easier to maintain with weekly brushing to remove dead hair. Their short coat sheds less than the rough variety.
• Facial Cleaning: Due to their flat faces, owners should pay special attention to cleaning their eyes and face folds to prevent infections or irritation.
• Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning: Like all dogs, Griffons require regular nail trimming and ear cleaning as part of their grooming routine.

Ideal Home:

The ideal home for a Griffon Bruxellois is one where they can be an active part of daily life. They are well-suited to individuals or families who can provide them with the companionship and attention they crave. Due to their small size, they can adapt well to apartment living, but they do need someone who is home for most of the day or a secondary dog for company.

• Family Suitability: They can do well in households with children, though supervision is recommended, especially with younger kids. Children should be taught how to handle them gently due to their small size.
• Companionship: This breed thrives on human interaction and does not do well in homes where they are left alone for long periods. They also get along well with other dogs and pets if properly socialised.

Popularity in Australia:

The Griffon Bruxellois is not one of the most common breeds in Australia, but their popularity is growing, particularly among dog lovers who appreciate their unique look and affectionate temperament. They are increasingly seen at dog shows, where their distinct appearance and lively personality make them stand out.

Adoption and Purchasing Considerations:

• Finding a Breeder: Potential owners should seek out reputable breeders who follow ANKC guidelines. Responsible breeders will provide health clearances for conditions like syringomyelia to ensure puppies are healthy.

Disclaimer: This information is intended as a guide to help potential owners understand the breed better. It is strongly recommended to talk to a few Breeders before making a decision to adopt any dog to make sure it is the right mix for your family and lifestyle.