Brussels Griffon

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The coachmen of Brussels used Griffons for ratting and the breed has been known as the Belgian Street Urchin.

The Griffon is a sturdy toy dog of square proportions with a domed head, undershot jaw, very short nose and lustrous eyes. The head is large in comparison to the body.

The Brussels Griffons pout gives him an almost human expression. To some viewers he resembles a miniature Boxer. There are two types: Rough-Coated (harsh wiry and dense), and Smooth-Coated or Petit Brabancon variety (short, straight, glossy).

The Brabancon needs less grooming. Griffons come in red, a mixture of red-brown & black, black & tan, and solid black. Ears are generally cropped and the tail is docked and carried high, though cropping the ears is optional.

Temperament: Inquisitive, Watchful, Alert, Self-important, Companionable, Sensitive.

Other names: Griffon Bruxellois, Belgium Griffon, Petit Brabançon, Griffon Belge, Brabançon Griffon

Health Problems: Prone to slipped stifle, eye and respiratory problems. Sensitive to the heat. Not the easiest whelpers; dams often require a cesarean section.