The Griffon Belge is a small but mighty companion dog that makes a great addition to any family. They have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires regular grooming.
They weigh between 20 and 30 pounds and stand between 10 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder. This compact size makes them perfect for city living or families with small children.
Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them a great choice for families with kids, as they are patient and gentle. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a joy to work with.
They thrive on attention and interaction, so they need regular exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.
Origin and History
The Griffon Belge has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.
The breed's ancestors, the Smousjes, were small, rough-haired dogs that were kept in Brussels and the surrounding area for a long time.
These small dogs were crossed with the pug and the ruby-red King Charles spaniel to create the current breed type.
The Griffon Belge was originally used as a rat catcher and guarded small carriages.
The name "Griffon Belge" was first documented in 1883, with "griffon" being French for "rough-haired".
The breed became famous due to its popularity among Queen Marie-Henriette of Belgium.
The Griffon Belge's popularity extended far beyond the borders of Belgium, with the breed being exported to all European countries.
The Griffon Belge's history dates back to the 19th century, when it was kept in stables as a rat catcher.
Its charming appearance and lively nature quickly made it a favorite at the Belgian royal court.
The Griffon Belge, along with its relatives, the Griffon Bruxellois and the Petit Brabançon, became popular companion dogs, especially in aristocratic circles.
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Characteristics
The Griffon Belge is a compact and square-looking dog with a relatively balanced build. Its body length is approximately equal to its height at the withers.
They come in three varieties recognized by the FCI, each with a unique coat type and color. The Brussels Griffon has a short and red coat, while the Belgian Griffon has a black and rough coat. The Brabant Griffon has a smooth coat in different colors.
One of the standout features of the Griffon Belge is its large head with tousled hair, giving it a striking appearance. Its almost human facial expression is particularly endearing to its owners.
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Unique Appearance
The Griffon Belge has a robust, square build.
Its face is striking with large, expressive eyes and a short, wide mouth.
The coat is rough and wiry, giving it a somewhat shaggy appearance.
Black, black and tan, and reddish are the most common coat colors.
Additional reading: Smooth Coated Brussels Griffon
Small but Mighty
The Griffon Belge may be small in size, but it's certainly mighty in personality. Reaching a shoulder height of around 18 to 20 cm, this breed is one of the smaller dog breeds.
Despite its small size, the Griffon Belge is robust and agile, making it a great companion for families. It weighs between 3.5 and 6 kg, which is perfect for city living.
The Griffon Belge's compact and square appearance is due to its body length, which corresponds approximately to the height at the withers. This gives the dog a relatively compact and square appearance.
Its short, rough coat and large head with tousled hair make it a striking feature, and its almost human facial expression is particularly appreciated by its lovers.
Care and Grooming
Grooming the Griffon Belge requires regular brushing to prevent matting and keep the coat in good condition. Brushing about once a week is sufficient, but more often may be necessary during the shedding season.
Regular ear and eye checks are a must, and cleaning them if necessary is part of the care routine. This helps prevent any potential health issues.
The Griffon Belge's teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental problems. This is a crucial part of their overall health and wellbeing.
To keep their coat in shape, occasional trimming is advisable. This will help maintain a neat appearance and prevent overgrowth.
Here's a quick rundown of the grooming requirements for your Griffon Belge:
- Brush about once a week, but more often during shedding season
- Check and clean ears and eyes regularly
- Brush teeth regularly to prevent dental problems
- Occasional trimming to maintain a neat appearance
Health of the: Robust
The Griffon Belge is a robust dog breed. They are generally healthy, but it's essential to be attentive to their well-being.
Their robustness is a testament to their overall health. However, like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues.
Regular visits to the vet are crucial to maintaining the dog's health. A balanced diet is also vital to ensure they stay healthy.
Some health issues to be aware of include breathing problems due to the short muzzle. This is a common concern for Griffon Belge owners.
Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation are also potential health concerns for this breed. It's essential to be aware of these issues and take preventative measures.
By being attentive and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure your Griffon Belge lives a long and healthy life.
Worth a look: Brussels Griffon Health Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Belgian Griffon and a Brussels Griffon?
The main difference between a Belgian Griffon and a Brussels Griffon is the coat type: the Brussels Griffon has a red, rough-coated coat, while the Belgian Griffon can have a rough-coated coat in any other color. This distinction is specific to the breed's origins in Belgium.
How expensive is a Brussels Griffon?
A Brussels Griffon puppy typically costs between $1,500 and $2,000, depending on the breeder and location. If you're considering bringing one home, this price range is a good starting point for your budget.
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