Introduction
The Brussels Griffon is a tiny dog with a massive personality. Often described as “a human in a dog’s body,” this breed is famous for its expressive face, loyalty, and big-dog attitude. But is a Brussels Griffon the right pet for you? In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything from costs and cuddling habits to whether they’re high maintenance and their potential drawbacks.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | Brussels Griffon |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Breed Group | Toy |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 7–10 inches (18–25 cm) |
| Weight | 8–12 pounds (3.5–5.5 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Smooth or rough |
| Coat Colors | Red, black, black & tan, belge |
| Temperament | Affectionate, curious, alert |
| Exercise Needs | Low to moderate – 30 mins daily |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate to high |
| Good with Kids | Better with older children |
| Good for Families | Yes, especially with adults |
Image Alt Tag: Brussels Griffon dog with expressive face sitting on a couch
Are Brussels Griffons Cuddly?
Yes! Brussels Griffons are extremely cuddly and form strong emotional bonds with their owners. They thrive on affection and love to be close to their humans—often following them from room to room. While they enjoy playtime, what they truly crave is lap time and snuggles.
However, their strong attachment also means they can become clingy and even develop separation anxiety. Early socialization and crate training help foster independence.
History and Origin
The Brussels Griffon hails from Belgium, where it was developed in the 1800s by crossing Affenpinschers, Pugs, and English Toy Spaniels. Originally bred to catch rats in stables, their charm soon elevated them to companion status for Belgian nobility. Today, they’re best known for their human-like expressions and starring role in the movie As Good As It Gets.
Appearance and Coat
This toy breed stands out with a short, flat face and large, soulful eyes. They come in two coat types:
- Rough coat: Dense and wiry, requires regular grooming
- Smooth coat: Short and glossy, easier to maintain
Common coat colors include red, black, black & tan, and belge (a mix of black and reddish-brown).
Temperament and Personality
Brussels Griffons are confident, curious, and full of spunk. Though small in stature, they act like much larger dogs. They’re known for their:
- Deep loyalty
- Sharp intelligence
- Watchful, alert nature
- Comedic timing and charm
They can be shy around strangers and need early socialization to become well-rounded adults. Despite their boldness, they are highly sensitive and respond best to gentle handling.
Are Brussels Griffons High Maintenance?
In some ways, yes—they can be high maintenance. Here’s why:
- Grooming: Rough-coated Griffons need weekly brushing and regular trimming. Smooth-coated types shed more and still need brushing.
- Emotional needs: They are Velcro dogs—clingy and attention-seeking.
- Training: Intelligent but sometimes stubborn, they require patience.
- Health monitoring: Flat-faced dogs (brachycephalic) need careful monitoring in hot weather.
With proper care and attention, they are manageable—but first-time owners should be prepared.
Training and Intelligence
Brussels Griffons are very intelligent, often too smart for their own good! This can make training easy if it’s fun and rewarding, but they may resist repetitive routines. Positive reinforcement, variety, and short sessions work best. They excel in:
- Obedience
- Agility
- Trick training
Just remember: harsh tones or punishment can backfire due to their sensitive nature.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Brussels Griffon?
Despite their charm, there are a few things potential owners should know:
| Disadvantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Separation anxiety | They dislike being alone and can develop anxiety easily. |
| Fragility | Small and delicate—better for adult homes or older kids. |
| House training challenges | May take longer to potty train than some breeds. |
| Not ideal for rough play | Can become fearful if handled harshly or too roughly. |
| May bark | Alert and vocal—especially if bored or anxious. |
That said, many of these issues are manageable with early training and consistency.
Grooming and Care
Rough-coated Brussels Griffons:
- Brush 2–3 times weekly
- Trim coat every 6–8 weeks
- Clean eyes and wrinkles frequently
Smooth-coated Brussels Griffons:
- Weekly brushing
- Occasional bathing
- Nail trimming and ear cleaning
Regardless of coat type, dental hygiene is essential due to their small jaws and potential for dental issues.
Image Alt Tag: Grooming a rough-coated Brussels Griffon with a slicker brush
Health and Lifespan
Brussels Griffons are generally healthy and live 12–15 years. However, they can be prone to:
- Brachycephalic syndrome (breathing issues)
- Dental disease
- Luxating patella
- Eye injuries due to their large, exposed eyes
Regular vet visits, a high-quality diet, and gentle handling reduce risks.
How Much Does a Brussels Griffon Cost?
A Brussels Griffon puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000. Factors affecting price include:
- Lineage and pedigree
- Coat type (rough may cost more)
- Health testing and breeder reputation
Additionally, consider yearly expenses:
- Vet care: ~$300–600
- Grooming: ~$300 annually (rough coat)
- Food, toys, and training: ~$500–800
Adoption tip: Check breed-specific rescues for older dogs at lower cost.
Exercise Needs
Although energetic indoors, Brussels Griffons don’t need extensive outdoor activity. They require:
- 30–45 minutes of daily exercise
- Indoor play or short walks
- Mental stimulation through training or puzzle toys
Because they’re small, they adapt well to apartment life, but they still need engagement.
Pros and Cons of the Brussels Griffon
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly affectionate and cuddly | Can be clingy and develop separation anxiety |
| Comical and intelligent | Somewhat stubborn and harder to house-train |
| Good for apartments | Not ideal for small children |
| Unique and expressive appearance | Grooming and health care require attention |
Fun Facts About Brussels Griffons
- Brussels Griffons were favorites of Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium.
- The breed was popularized by the 1997 movie As Good As It Gets.
- They’re often called “monkey-faced dogs” due to their expressive features.
Final Thoughts
The Brussels Griffon is a delightful, intelligent, and affectionate breed packed into a tiny, charming body. They are perfect for individuals or families seeking a companion dog that wants to be part of every moment. While they do require grooming, attention, and training, their love and devotion more than make up for it.
Internal Link:
Curious about other small companion breeds? Don’t miss our Pomeranian dog guide.
External Link:
Learn more from the AKC Brussels Griffon page.
