Brussels Griffon

Breed Type: Toy
Common nicknames: Griff, Griffon, Bruss
Coat: Wiry, smooth, double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, lively, intelligent
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Color & patterns:
Hero image
Brussels Griffon - black and tan
Brussels Griffon - red
Brussels Griffon - red
Brussels Griffons may be small, but they have huge hearts of gold. With their charming, grumpy-looking expressions and playful eyes, Brussels Griffons bring a playful zest to any household. These pups are also highly intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation, making them eager learners and perfect companions for those seeking an interactive and engaging pet. Originating from Belgium, these delightful canines were initially bred to be rodent hunters, but they quickly won the hearts of nobles and became treasured pets. Brussels Griffons form strong bonds with their families and are known for their unwavering loyalty and devotion. They are affectionate and loving, delighting in snuggles and cuddles with their people. Whether amusing you with their hilarious antics or simply snuggling up for some quality time, Brussels Griffons are always ready to bring a smile to your face.

Brussels Griffon characteristics

Learn about about Brussels Griffon basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Brussels Griffon facts.

Average height

7-8 inches (17.8-20.3cm)

Average weight

6-14 pounds (2.7-6.4 kg)

Average lifespan

12-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-demand workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training Aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How big do Brussels Griffon get?

Brussels Griffons are small dogs. On average, an adult Brussels Griffon is seven to eight inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between six to 14 pounds.

Do all Brussels Griffons have beards?

Yes, all Brussels Griffons have a beard and mustache, which give the breed its charming and distinctive look. Facial hair is present in both male and female Brussels Griffons, though it can vary in length and thickness among individuals.

Are Brussels Griffons related to Pugs?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are believed to be related to Pugs. The Brussels Griffon shares some similarities with the Pug, especially in facial features and body structure. Both breeds are known for their charming and affectionate personalities.

How long do Brussels Griffon dogs live?

Brussels Griffons live between 12 to 15 years on average. With proper care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary checkups, some Brussels Griffons can even live into their late teens.

When is a Brussels Griffon full-grown?

Brussels Griffons are full-grown between nine and 12 months of age. However, they might continue to fill out until they are 18 months to two years of age.

Why are Brussels Griffons rare?

Brussels Griffons are considered a relatively rare breed because, historically, they have had a limited population. Today, many people are not familiar with Brussels Griffons, leading to lower demand and limited breeding compared to more well-known breeds.

What breeds make up a Brussels Griffon?

The Brussels Griffon is believed to have been created by crossing small Belgian street dogs with Pugs, Affenpinschers, and possibly English Toy Spaniels, although the breed’s exact ancestry is debated.

Brussels Griffon temperament

Learn about about the Brussels Griffon temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Brussels Griffon shed?

Yes, some Brussels Griffons shed, depending on the type of coat. Brussels Griffons can have either smooth or rough coats. Smooth Brussels Griffons shed a little, but not as much as some other dog breeds. Rough-coated Brussels Griffons do not shed. The breed is a good choice for people who prefer a dog with minimal shedding and relatively low grooming needs.

Smooth Brussels Griffons don’t require too much grooming other than the occasional haircut. The wiry-haired rough-coated Brussels Griffon does require regular hand-stripping to keep the coat and skin healthy.

Are Brussels Griffons good with kids?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are good with older kids who understand how to interact with small dogs gently and respectfully. Due to their small size, Brussels Griffons are not the best choice for families with children younger than five, who might unintentionally injure them.

However, it's important for parents to teach children of all ages how to safely interact with dogs to help prevent any potential misunderstandings or accidents. It’s also important for pet parents to teach their dogs how to gently interact with children and supervise all interactions with them to make sure everyone stays safe.

Are Brussels Griffons easy to train?

No, Brussels Griffons are not easy to train compared to some other breeds. They are strong-willed little beings and can be quite stubborn and independent, which can make training a bit challenging.

However, training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed, and with patience, consistency, and positive training methods, Brussels Griffons can become well-behaved and obedient companions. It’s important to keep training sessions short, fun, and engaging to maintain their interest and attention.

Are Brussels Griffons smart?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are smart dogs. They have excellent problem-solving abilities and display a keen understanding of their environment. This makes them quite creative in finding ways to get what they want, which can be both entertaining and challenging for their pet parents.

Are Brussels Griffons cuddly?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are cuddly dogs. They love to be close to their pet parents and enjoy spending quality time snuggling and being petted. Their small size makes them perfect lap-dogs, and they seek out opportunities to curl up next to their people for warmth and comfort.

Do Brussels Griffons bark a lot?

Yes, Brussels Griffons can bark a lot, but some Brussels Griffons bark more than others. The breed is alert, curious, and somewhat vocal, but whether they bark excessively varies depending on the individual dog and their training. If Brussels Griffons are left alone for long periods, they might bark due to boredom or anxiety.

Are Brussels Griffons good with other dogs?

Yes, most Brussels Griffons are good with other dogs, especially if they are raised together or introduced properly. However, due to their small size, they might be more vulnerable to injury during rough play or interactions with larger, more energetic dogs, so always supervise interactions.

Are Brussels Griffons good apartment dogs?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are good apartment dogs. Their small size and low exercise requirements make them well-suited for apartment living and smaller living spaces. They are generally quiet indoors and do not require a large yard to run and play, making them a good choice for city dwellers and people living in smaller homes, such as apartments or condos.

Are Brussels Griffons good dogs?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are good dogs. They are affectionate, playful, and lively dogs who form strong bonds with their pet parents. Brussels Griffons can tend to be “one-person dogs,” which makes them great for single people or couples. These pups are known as “velcro-dogs” because they love being so close to their people, but they do not like to be left alone for long periods and might develop separation anxiety if alone too much.

Are Brussels Griffons good with cats?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are good with cats, especially if they are introduced to them and socialized together from a young age. Their friendly and playful nature can make them good companions for cats, and they often enjoy having another animal to interact with. Initially, monitor their interactions to ensure that both the Brussels Griffon and the cat are comfortable and safe around each other. Some cats are less tolerant of these pup’s playful or energetic behavior.

Brussels Griffon history

Learn about where this Brussels Griffon came from!

What were Brussels Griffons bred for?

Brussels Griffons were originally bred to be small ratting dogs, used to catch and exterminate mice and rats in stables in Brussels, Belgium, in the 19th century. Over time, they also became popular as companion dogs due to their affectionate and lively nature.

Brussels Griffon health

Learn about about the Brussels Griffon health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Brussels Griffons hypoallergenic?

Yes, rough-coated Brussels Griffons are considered hypoallergenic, but smooth-coated Brussels Griffons are not. If you or someone in your family has dog allergies, spend time with adult Brussels Griffons before bringing one home.

Are Brussels Griffons brachycephalic?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are brachycephalic. Their short muzzles and flat faces give them a unique and charming appearance, but brachycephalic features can also cause certain health issues and respiratory problems.

Brussels Griffons might experience breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather or during strenuous exercise. They can be more susceptible to conditions like brachycephalic airway syndrome, which can cause breathing issues due to narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palate, and other anatomical abnormalities in the upper airways.

To manage and minimize the risks, avoid strenuous exercise in extreme temperatures, provide plenty of fresh water, and monitor for signs of respiratory distress.

Do Brussels Griffons have breathing problems?

Yes, some Brussels Griffons have breathing problems due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) features, which can contribute to a range of respiratory issues known as brachycephalic airway syndrome and include stenotic nares (narrowed or pinched nostrils), elongated soft palate (which can obstruct the airway), everted laryngeal saccules (small pouches in the larynx that can become everted or turned inside out), and tracheal collapse (weakness or collapse of the tracheal rings). 

If you suspect that your Brussels Griffon is experiencing breathing difficulties, seek veterinary care immediately. Breathing problems in Brussels Griffons can be managed by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding strenuous exercise in extreme temperatures, and providing a cool and well-ventilated environment. In severe cases, surgical procedures might be necessary to correct anatomical abnormalities and improve airflow.

Are Brussels Griffons healthy?

Yes, Brussels Griffons are relatively healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic and health issues. Some of the common health concerns associated with Brussels Griffons include:

  • Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Unlike in hip dysplasia, where the main problem is joint instability, the abnormalities seen in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis. If you are rescuing a Brussels Griffon dog, have them checked out by a vet to see if they have or are prone to getting dysplasia so you know what they will be able to handle in terms of activities and exercise.

  • Eye problems: Brussels Griffons can be susceptible to various eye conditions, including lens luxation, a type of dislocation that occurs when the support ligaments of the lens (a sphere-shaped area of the eye that focuses light on the retina) weaken or break; cataracts; eye lacerations; distichiasis, an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, the extra eyelashes and abnormal location result in irritation to the eye; progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and glaucoma. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian can help detect and manage any potential eye issues.

  • Syringomyelia: This condition affects the brain and spinal cord and is caused by a skull malformation. The result is a skull that is too small for the brain, making it difficult for spinal fluid to travel down the spine properly. The fluid eventually backs up near the neck and creates cysts. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe pain and partial paralysis.

  • Patellar luxation: This common orthopedic condition causes the kneecap (patella) to dislocate or move out of its normal position. Symptoms can range from intermittent lameness to severe pain. Patellar luxation might require surgical intervention to correct.

Popular Brussels Griffon mixes

A few common Brussels Griffon mixes include:

  • Bea Griffon (Brussels Griffon + Beagle)

  • Brug (Brussels Griffon + Pug)

  • Brussels-Pei (Brussels Griffon + Shar Pei)

  • Broodle Griffon (Brussels Griffon + Poodle)

  • Affengriffon (Brussels Griffon + Affenpinscher)

Brussels Griffon Mixes picture

Find Brussels Griffon puppies near you

Adopting a Brussels Griffon

Learn about acquiring a Brussels Griffon - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.

Photo of Bianca

Bianca

Brussels Griffon

Female, 7 yrs 1 mo

Studio City, CA

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Bianca is a sweet Brussels Griffon/terrier mix, about 7 years old. She is great with other dogs and people. Bianca is up to date on vaccines, spayed and microchipped. If you are interested in her please go to our website: www.amrdog.org and complete the application. LOCAL AREA ADOPTION ONLY
Photo of Yanira

Yanira

Brussels Griffon

Female, 5 mos

Encino, CA

Color
Brindle
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Breed: Brussels Griffon mix Age: 5 months as of 3.18.25 Weight: 12 lbs. Good with dogs: yes Good with cats: unsure Good with kids: unsure Energy level: unsure Good with men/strangers: yes Hypoallergenic: no Special home requirements or medical: best in a home with another dog and no shared walls as she has some separation anxiety Additional info: Yanira is a sweet and loving young gal who ended up at the shelter limping. She has been healing well with rest and TLC (no surgery). She is good with people and other dogs large and small. She adores being pet, held and giving kisses! She is great in her crate and would do best in a home with another dog or no shared walls as she has some separation anxiety. She is still a puppy and she is working on her potty training skills. She loves to go on walks and loves the company of her people! INTERESTED IN THIS PUP? If you want to know if the puppy is still available- we advise you to go ahead and apply which will free us up to review your application. We thank you for your patience. Our inbox gets flooded with so many puppy requests it takes us longer to respond. If you are not ready to adopt just yet and would like to help in other ways, please consider clicking on the green “Sponsor Me” button above to help this dog receive the best care we can give. We rely on the generosity of others to make rescuing dogs possible. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THIS DOG, PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE READ THE DOG'S INFORMATION CAREFULLY. ONCE YOU HAVE DONE SO, PLEASE DO THE FOLLOWING: 1. Visit www.dogswithoutborders.org 2. Then fill out an online ADOPTION APPLICATION - http://dogswithoutborders.org/adopt-a-dog/adoption-application/ 3. Please wait to hear from our representative in approximately 48 hours on weekdays. 4. To learn more about our adoption process, please look up our Adoption FAQ’s. - http://dogswithoutborders.org/adopt-a-dog/adoption-faq/
Photo of Bella

Bella

Brussels Griffon Norwich Terrier

Female, 2 yrs

Los Angeles, CA

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn - with White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Needs special attention
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Text or email for direct contact with rescuer located in Palmdale approved for same-day adoption (661)609-2186 memeco635@gmail.com Hello everyone, my name is Bella. Get the tissues ready because my story is a little tragic. I was homeless wandering the streets of Skid Row hoping to find a food drive where I could snag a couple treats from the vendors feeding the homeless when a homeless man’s German Shepherd attacked me out of nowhere! People were standing around yelling when a pitbull came and joined in on attacking me! After what felt like forever they were able to separate both dogs and pick me up but I was limp in shock, fearing I was already dead due to the amount of blood everywhere and my jaw barely hanging off my face I was rushed to an emergency vet who then transported me to Palmdale where I met my rescuer. My jaw was completely broken, and it had to be surgically reattached and wired shut, the person who transported me all the way to Palmdale wasn’t able to get the funds together to handle my surgery so my rescuer stepped in to help. They told her there was a very high chance that I wouldn’t survive the surgery and I would die on the table because I lost so much blood and I wasn’t responsive due to the shock and pain I was clearly in, but if they were determined to fight for me, I was determined to fight as well and I pulled through! I spent the next few weeks having a very difficult time, eating and drinking, and had to be fed with the syringe because I had tubes coming out of my neck and my jaw. My rescuer was determined to help me pull through, and after all the pain medication antibiotic‘s and vet visits I was cleared and I couldn’t stop smiling! I made a full recovery and my favorite thing to do now is follow my rescuer around her house and join in when she has a little dance breaks. I still get skittish around large dogs, but I’m very friendly and I haven’t shown Any signs of aggression because I do want to build bonds with other dogs, cats and children. I am very sweet however I am currently being called a Velcro dog because I want to be around people all the time. I am still on a soft food diet, even though my most severe injuries are healed, but I will have to be weaned into hard kibble overtime so for now I am enjoying wet food and shredded chicken with white rice with soft boiled veggies, and the occasional scrambled egg. My rescuer thinks it’s time for me to find a family of my own. I am very quiet and always wanting to cuddle. I would be a great addition to any family dynamic as I acclimate without issue. I have a very easy-going personality. I have no bad habits I just want love. I may have had a rough start, but I know my future involves a very loving family, a nice warm couch and a yard where I can play and soak in the sun. if you think I sound like the perfect match for your family please contact my rescuer with the information listed above my story to schedule a time to meet with me. I am approved for same-day adoption, and I guarantee you will fall in love with my smile. I really hope to find my forever family soon but until then I look forward to meeting you!