Breed Spotlight: Brussels Griffon

Coat type and colors

Brussels griffons, also known as the griffon Bruxellois, have a coat that comes in two texture variations: wiry (aka rough) or smooth. Griffs with a wiry texture typically have a medium-length coat but are sometimes called long-haired Brussels griffons. Short-hair Brussels griffons have smooth, double coats.

The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) official breed standard for Brussels griffons lists the following colors:³

• Beige
• Black
• Black and tan
• Red

While these are the standard colors, griffs’ coats may also be blue, brown, tan, and wheaten.

Ears and Tail

Griffons’ ears may be natural or cropped, and their tails are partially docked. Although cropped ears and docked tails are part of the AKC’s official standards, the American Veterinary Medical Association opposes cosmetic cropping and docking.^3,4

Drooling level

Griffons are unlikely to drool.

Shedding and grooming

Some Brussels griffons shed, and some only shed minimally. It all depends on the coat type of your Brussels griffon. Hypoallergenic Brussels griffons are typically rough-coated, while smooth Brussels griffons are considered moderate shedders.

Smooth Brussels griffons will release their double coat twice a year, during the spring and fall. Throughout shedding season, they require daily brushings to help remove their full undercoat. Outside shedding season, weekly grooming sessions should be enough.

Although rough-coated griffons don’t shed much, many owners keep everything but their beard clipped short.

Behavior

Brussels griffons make excellent pets for adults and families. Adaptable and sociable with moderate energy, the Brussels griffon’s personality is individual to each dog. Early socialization and obedience training will help griffs let their uniquely big personalities shine with few issues.

Griffons are known to develop poor behaviors if regularly left alone for too long. Keep this in mind if you’re unable to meet their attention needs.

Trainability

Brussels griffons are intelligent and eager to please their owners. This combination makes them easy to train. Due to their sensitive side, they’ll respond best to gentle training methods, not harsh tactics.

Like many toy breeds, spend extra time and attention on house breaking griffons.

Exercise Needs

Griffs don’t have very high exercise needs. A half hour of moderate activity a day will likely be enough. Consider play time and brief walks to satisfy their needs.

Good With Kids?

Maltipoos love their families, and that extends to children. Their playfulness makes them the perfect companion for kids. However, as a smaller breed Maltipoos can easily be injured by accident. It’s best to wait until the kids are 6-years-old and older before bringing a Maltipoo home.

Good With Other Pets?

When properly introduced, Brussels griffons should do fine with other pets. Like any dog breed, griffs’ early socialization is important to mitigate risks with any new pet encounter.

Barking Level

Brussels griffons are a vocal breed and bark often. Although they make great apartment pets, keep your neighbors in mind before deciding to own a griff.