BRUSSELS GRIFFON

Brussels Griffon Quick Facts:

  * Toy Group

  * The result of breeding the Pug and King Charles

  * Named for the city of their origin, Brussels, Belgium

  * Nicknames: Griffon, Griff, Brussbrussels griffon brown

  * Popular in late 1800's, almost extinct during WWII

  * Used to eliminate rodents in stables

  * First entered the Westminster Dog Show in 1902.

  * Lifespan 12-15 years

  * Rumored to be George Lucas' inspiration for the Ewoks in Star Wars

  * Generally considered an uncommon breed

Brussels Griffon Appearance:

  * Face has human-like expression

  * Can be rough coat or smooth coat

  * Comes in red, a mix of red-brown and black, black and tan and solid black

  * Flat face (looks like Ewok from Star Wars)

  * Should be muscular and compact

  * Weighs about 8-10 pounds

  * Coat is dense and wiry, little or no shedding, considered one of the hypo-allergenic dogs

 Brussels Griffon Temperament:

  * Very sensitive, alert and inquisitive

  * Known to have a "big heart"

  * Bonds with one person usually, loves to snuggle with it's masterbrussels griffon black

  * Not best dog for family because of it's tendency to bond with one person

  * Unhappy if left alone - a true "Velcro dog"

  * A generally happy dog with a terrier personality

  * Can be difficult to housebreak

  * Good with other dogs and cats

  Brussels Griffon Potential Health Issues:

  * Cleft palate (can be fatal for puppies)

  * Cataracts as dog ages

  * Glaucoma common

Brussels Griffon Special Needs:

  * Can't be left outside for periods of time; due to their short snout, heat stroke is a major concern

  * Have large, relatively unprotected eyes that can be a target for damage from foreign objects

  * Can have complications giving birth and often needs Cesarean Section