Dont underestimate the Brussels griffon. This small dog breed stereotypically has a big, lovable personality. These petite dogs truly embody the term companion. They typically love to be around their owners and dont like to be left alone for too long.Â
Due to their small size, moderate energy levels, and lack of drooling, they can make great apartment-dwelling dogs.
The average Brussels griffon dog is between seven and ten inches high. Their average weight is between eight and ten pounds. However, they can range anywhere between five and 15 pounds.
They may have smooth or wiry coats. Their most characteristic feature is their face, which earned them the name “bearded dog” in historical Belgian folk songs. Their beard and mustache cover their mouth giving them an almost human appearance.
Brussels griffon temperament & personality. These dogs, affectionately called “griffs” for short, are usually happy dogs who can adapt to new situations, as long as their owner is nearby. They may also be shy with new people, but as long as their “person” is with them, they will warm up.
Brussels griffons do best in families where they can participate in all activities. They love sleeping in bed with you and accompanying you anywhere whenever possible. They will never be more than a few feet away from you while you are at home. Some people call them “velcro” dogs for this reason.Â
Make sure you give your Brussels griffon plenty of opportunities to be a part of the family. If they are left on their own too often, they may become depressed. In the short term, Brussels griffons may become mischievous when left alone. To avoid damage to your home, experts recommend putting them in a crate when you leave them at home.
Griffs are somewhat sensitive. Because of this, they dont do well with small children who might be rough with them. They also arent usually aware of their small size, so they may try to assert their dominance with larger dogs. Careful introduction with larger household pets is necessary to avoid potential harm.
Let’s face it – when you’re looking to add a furry friend to your family it’s easy to get distracted by those big eyes and adorable faces. And few dogs have more expressive faces than the Brussels Griffon! But beyond those human-like expressions and teddy bear appearance are Brussels Griffons actually good family dogs?
As someone who’s spent years researching different dog breeds (and maybe fallen in love with a few Brussels Griffons along the way), I’m here to give you the honest truth about these Belgian beauties. Let’s dig into everything you need to know before bringing one of these pint-sized pooches into your home.
What Makes Brussels Griffons Special?
Brussels Griffons are small companion dogs that originally hail from Belgium. These little guys were actually bred to hunt rats and vermin in Belgian stables back in the 1800s! Despite their working-class origins, they’ve become beloved pets known for their unique appearance and big personalities.
They typically weigh between 6-14 pounds and stand about 7-10 inches tall, making them perfect apartment dogs. With an average lifespan of 12-15 years (though some sources say 10-15), they’re companions who’ll stick with you for quite a while.
Brussels Griffons as Family Dogs: The Good Stuff
1. Those Adorable Faces!
Let’s start with the obvious – Brussels Griffons have the most human-like expressions of practically any dog breed. Their squishy faces give them a permanent look of disdain (which is honestly hilarious), but they can actually display a range of emotions with their expressive eyes and faces. It’s like having a tiny, furry person in your house!
2. They’re Incredibly Affectionate
Brussels Griffons are sometimes called “Velcro dogs” because they love sticking close to their humans. If you want a dog who considers you the center of their universe, a Brussels Griffon might be your perfect match. They form strong bonds with their owners and are always up for cuddle time.
As one Brussels Griffon owner told me, “My Griffon follows me EVERYWHERE – even to the bathroom! It’s like having a tiny shadow with a beard.”
3. They’re Smart Cookies
These little pups are highly intelligent, which makes them relatively easy to train using positive reinforcement methods. They can learn tricks quickly and some even excel at dog sports like agility. Their smarts also mean they’re good at picking up on your emotions and routines.
4. Good with Other Pets
If you already have other pets, a Brussels Griffon can usually integrate well, especially if introduced young. They typically do well with cats and other dogs once properly socialized. Just remember their history as rat hunters if you have very small pets like hamsters or gerbils!
5. Great Watchdogs
Don’t let their size fool you – Brussels Griffons make excellent watchdogs! They’ll quickly alert you to any strangers approaching your home or unusual sounds. While they can’t exactly fend off intruders, they’ll make sure you know something’s up.
Brussels Griffons and Families: Potential Challenges
No dog is perfect for every family situation, and Brussels Griffons have some characteristics that might make them less ideal for certain households.
1. Not Great with Very Young Children
While Brussels Griffons can be good family dogs, they’re generally better suited for families with older, more respectful children. There are a few reasons for this:
- They’re small and somewhat fragile, making them vulnerable to injury from rough handling
- They can be sensitive and may nip if they feel threatened or uncomfortable
- They have a stubborn streak that might clash with unpredictable toddler behavior
If you have young kids, supervising all interactions is absolutely essential.
2. They’re VERY Attached to Their Humans
That Velcro dog quality is adorable, but it can also lead to separation anxiety if Brussels Griffons are left alone for too long. These dogs really don’t like being by themselves for extended periods. If your family is frequently away from home for long stretches, this might not be the breed for you.
3. Grooming Requirements Can Be Intense
There are two coat types for Brussels Griffons: smooth and rough. The smooth coat is easier to maintain, requiring just weekly brushing, but the rough coat is another story! Rough-coated Brussels Griffons need professional grooming every 4-8 weeks plus regular brushing at home.
That signature beard? It needs regular cleaning to avoid getting smelly and gross. Trust me, beard maintenance is a real thing for these pups!
4. Health Considerations
As a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, Brussels Griffons can have some health challenges that potential owners should be aware of:
- Respiratory issues: Their short snouts make breathing harder, especially in hot or humid weather
- Eye problems: Their prominent eyes are prone to injuries and conditions like cataracts
- Dental disease: Their small mouths mean crowded teeth that need extra care
- Joint issues: Some Brussels Griffons develop patella luxation (slipping kneecaps) or hip dysplasia
These health concerns don’t mean Brussels Griffons aren’t good pets – just that you should be prepared for potential vet bills and special care requirements.
5. The Price Tag
Brussels Griffons remain quite rare, especially in the United States. This scarcity drives up the price, with puppies typically costing anywhere from $800 to $4,000! And that’s before considering the costs of grooming, healthcare, and other essentials.
Who Should Consider a Brussels Griffon?
Based on their temperament and needs, Brussels Griffons might be perfect for:
- Empty nesters looking for an affectionate companion
- Apartment dwellers who want a small but spunky dog
- Families with older children who understand how to respectfully interact with small dogs
- Work-from-home professionals who can provide the company these dogs crave
- Dog enthusiasts willing to put in the time for training and socialization
Who Might Want to Consider a Different Breed?
Brussels Griffons might not be the best fit for:
- Families with very young children or rough toddlers
- People who work long hours away from home
- Those seeking a low-maintenance pet (the grooming needs can be significant)
- Extremely active families looking for a hiking or jogging companion
- Budget-conscious families (the initial cost plus potential health expenses can add up)
Brussels Griffon Care Essentials
If you’re still thinking a Brussels Griffon might be right for your family, here are some essential care tips:
Exercise Needs
Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons do need regular exercise – about 30 minutes of moderate activity daily. This can be neighborhood walks, play sessions, or even learning new tricks. They adapt well to your lifestyle as long as they get some daily activity.
Training Approach
Brussels Griffons respond well to positive reinforcement training but can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Their stubborn streak means consistency is key! Early socialization helps them become well-rounded, confident dogs.
Temperature Sensitivity
Their brachycephalic nature makes them sensitive to heat, while their small size means they don’t do well in extreme cold either. These are primarily indoor dogs who need climate control for their safety and comfort.
Dental Care
Daily tooth brushing and regular dental cleanings at the vet are highly recommended for Brussels Griffons due to their dental crowding issues.
The Bottom Line: Are Brussels Griffons Good Family Dogs?
So, are Brussels Griffons good family dogs? The answer is a qualified yes – they can be wonderful companions for the right family.
If you have older children, plenty of time to spend with your dog, and the resources to provide proper care and grooming, a Brussels Griffon could bring immense joy to your household. Their affectionate nature, intelligence, and those adorable expressions make them lovable companions.
However, families with very young children, limited time at home, or budget constraints might want to consider other breeds that better match their lifestyle.
As with any pet decision, the key is honest assessment of your family’s situation and needs. No dog is perfect for everyone, but for the right family, a Brussels Griffon can be an absolutely perfect addition!
Final Thoughts
I’ve seen many families absolutely fall in love with their Brussels Griffons. One owner told me, “My Brussels has more personality in his tiny body than dogs three times his size! He makes me laugh every single day.”
If you’re considering adding one of these charismatic little dogs to your family, I’d recommend meeting some in person if possible. Their unique personalities really shine through in face-to-face interactions, and you’ll quickly know if you’re meant to be a Brussels Griffon family!
Have you had experience with Brussels Griffons? Are you considering adding one to your family? I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
Special Considerations for the Brussels Griffon
Brussels griffons are great family dogs but do best in homes with children older than five years, and without any larger animals.
This breed is more hypoallergenic than some others, as long as you get one with a wiry coat instead of a smooth one. Dogs with wiry coats do not shed at all. This dog breed does not drool or have much dander, contributing further to their hypoallergenic qualities.
The Brussels griffon is not a big barker. The dog will bark when someone approaches the door, but not much more often than that.
They are happy to lounge around for most of the day as long as they get enough exercise. As long as they are by your side, your griff will be a trusted and happy companion.
A famous painting from 1434 by Jan van Eyck, called The Arnolfini Portrait, features a dog that is likely the precursor to the Brussels griffon: a smous. This breed was slightly larger, perhaps around 20 pounds, but had many of the same qualities.
As the name would suggest, the Brussels griffon first originated in Brussels. It was common for coachmen, the people who operated horse-drawn vehicles, to keep a small, wire-haired dog around to catch and kill rats. These dogs were known as griffons decurieâFrench for wire coated stable dog.
In the early 1800s, coachmen mixed these dogs with pugs and English toy spaniels to get the cute and faithful companion we know as the Brussels griffon today.Â
But how did they go from rat-catching mutts to pampered lap dogs? In the 1870s, Belgian Queen, Henrietta Maria, noticed the breed and got one herself. So, the breed became all the rage and everyone who was anyone in the royal court wanted one.
Now, the breed is well-loved the world over. It has also found a modern spotlight. In 1997, a Brussels griffon named Jill had a starring role in the Jack Nicholson movie As Good As It Gets.
Caring for Your Brussels Griffon
Grooming. How you groom your Brussels griffon will depend on which type of coat they have. Smooth-coated griffs need weekly brushing during the spring and fall shedding season. Griffons with wiry coats do not shed. For either type of dog, an occasional bath is necessary to keep them clean and smelling great.
As with most breeds, clip your dogs nails on a regular basis to prevent walking issues. Routine dental care is essential. It is recommended to brush teeth daily with a dog toothpaste and follow your vets recommendations for professional cleanings.
Brussels griffon diet. This breed may be prone to overfeeding and becoming overweight. Treats are a useful aid in training but should make up no more than 10% of their caloric intake each day.
Exercise. Griffs need about 30 minutes of exercise per day. Like everything else, they would love to do it with you. Playing fetch or going for a walk will keep your dog happy. Â They can be quite playful.
Living indoors. This breed is definitely an indoor breed. Even though they are hearty, they are happiest when they are around people. They would not enjoy living outside separately from you.
Additionally, because of their flat face structure, they may have breathing difficulty if they get too hot, so access to shade and plenty of water is essential in hot temperatures.Â
Health. In general, this is a healthy breed, especially when you get your dog from a responsible breeder. However, there are some genetic health issues that may come up. All breeding dogs should be evaluated for the following conditions before being allowed to reproduce:
- Heart problems
- Cataracts
- Patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation)
- Hip dysplasia
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FAQ
What are the cons of Griffons?
What are the cons of Griffons? Some potential drawbacks include their sensitivity, tendency to bark, and strong attachment to their owners, which may lead to separation anxiety. They also need regular grooming and are better suited to calm homes where they are not left alone too often.
What are the disadvantages of a Brussels Griffon?
Griffs are somewhat sensitive. Because of this, they don’t do well with small children who might be rough with them. They also aren’t usually aware of their small size, so they may try to assert their dominance with larger dogs. Careful introduction with larger household pets is necessary to avoid potential harm.
Do Brussels Griffons bark a lot?
They make excellent watchdogs, but poor guard dogs because of their small size. They can bark excessively if not properly trained. They can become aggressive if threatened by either a stranger or another dog and are fearless, regardless of the size discrepancy.
Do Brussels Griffons like to cuddle?
Brussels Griffons are known for their strong attachment to their owners. They thrive on companionship and often prefer to be close to their humans at all times. This breed is affectionate, often seeking out cuddles and attention.