BRUSSELS GRIFFON Breed Standards
The Brussels Griffon takes its name from the capital of Belgium, and it was in Belgium that much of the breed’s development took place. In the early 19th century, it was a common practice for small terriers to be kept in stables to control the vermin population. One such breed was called the Griffons d'Ecurier, or “wire-coated stable dog.” The Brussels Griffon is thought to have originated from a blend of the Griffons d'Ecurier, King Charles Spaniel, Ruby Spaniel and Pug. From this breeding effort emerged two distinct coat types, smooth and wiry.
In the late 1800s, the Brussels Griffon found its way from the stables to the drawing rooms of royalty. Queen Marie Henriette adored the Brussels Griffon and began breeding them. Because of her involvement and interest, two clubs were started in both England and the United States. After both World War I and World War II, the breed was almost completely extinct in its native land. Thankfully, some English breeders were able to revive the Brussels Griffon. In 1910, the Brussels Griffon was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
While this breed has never been wildly popular, it is becoming more so these days. One reason is the renewed interest in small dogs in general. Another is the appearance of a Brussels Griffon in the popular movie As Good as It Gets, starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt.
SKILLS: An intelligent, alert, sturdy, with a thickset, short body, a smart carriage and set-up, attracting attention by an almost human expression. There are two distinct types of coat: rough or smooth. Except for coat, there is no difference between the two.
SIZE: Size - Weight usually 8 to 10 pounds, and should not exceed 12 pounds. Type and quality are of greater importance than weight, and a smaller dog that is sturdy and well proportioned should not be penalized. Proportion - Square, as measured from point of shoulder to rearmost projection of upper thigh and from withers to ground. Substance - Thickset, compact with good balance. Well boned.
COAT: The rough coat is wiry and dense, the harder and more wiry the better. On no account should the dog look or feel woolly, and there should be no silky hair anywhere. The coat should not be so long as to give a shaggy appearance, but should be distinctly different all over from the smooth coat. The head should be covered with wiry hair, slightly longer around the eyes, nose, cheeks, and chin, thus forming a fringe. The rough coat is hand-stripped and should never appear unkempt. Body coat of sufficient length to determine texture. The coat may be tidied for neatness of appearance, but coats prepared with scissors and/or clippers should be severely penalized. The smooth coat is straight, short, tight and glossy, with no trace of wiry hair.
Color - Either 1) Red: reddish brown with a little black at the whiskers and chin allowable; 2) Belge: black and reddish brown mixed, usually with black mask and whiskers; 3) Black and Tan: black with uniform reddish brown markings, appearing under the chin, on the legs, above each eye, around the edges of the ears and around the vent; or 4) Black: solid black. Any white hairs are a serious fault, except for "frost" on the muzzle of a mature dog, which is natural. Disqualification - White spot or blaze any where on coat.
CARE REQUIRED: The coat of the Rough requires a lot of attention, however the coat of the pet dogs may be clipped. The Griffon sheds little to no hair.
CHARACTER: Intelligent, alert and sensitive. Full of self-importance. Generally the Griffon is a happy, affectionate, adaptable companion who loves his caretaker best. It is not unusual for a BG to be shy with strangers or new situations, and hang with his owner until he warms to what's new. He barks when someone comes to the door or when appropriate. He doesn't care for aggressive behavior, and if he can't escape, he'll defend himself. It is possible to find some Griffons who are hyperactive, and on the other end of the scale, some who are very mellow even shy. It's best to visit the breeder and observe puppy and parent behavior. Male or female makes little difference in temperament. If you aren't the leader, he can develop bad habits.
TRAINING: A fenced yard is a must for this breed. If you are referring to obedience training, the answer is yes, if the training method suits the temperament of the dog. This is an intelligent breed, but sensitive. The Griffon will not respond to rough handling, hitting, or excessive shouting. Once a Griffon learns, he needs variety to keep his interest. Training methods that use praise, clickers, treats, and patience work best. Breeders encourage owners to use Puppy Kindergarten classes and Beginning Obedience classes for all Griffon owners as it gives alternatives in disciplining and builds owner confidence in handling your dog.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Griffons are good dogs for apartment life and will do okay without a yard.
EXERCISE: The decision to have a dog has to be a "whole family" commitment not an experiment to teach children responsibility. Purchasing a Griffon is like having a baby that never grows up, but remains dependent for 12-15 years. A Griffon will bond with his caregiver. If he's to be a family dog, everyone must help in care and training. The breed isn't recommended for families with kids under 5 years.
