Is the Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois) a good family dog?
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are expressive and affectionate small dogs with a compact body, distinctive bearded face and big, human-like eyes. Originally developed in Belgium as ratters and companion dogs, they are known for their lively personality, intelligence and strong attachment to their people. Generally playful and devoted with their family, Brussels Griffons can be sensitive, vocal and wary of strangers, so they benefit from gentle training, early socialisation and plenty of companionship.
| Recommended for | Owners in homes or apartments who want a devoted small companion and can provide plenty of attention. |
| Breed Classification | Toy Group |
| Other names | Brussels Griffon, Griffon Bruxellois |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Temperament | Alert, affectionate, comical and sensitive |
| Intelligence | Generally intelligent; best results come from patient, positive and consistent training |
| Tendency to bark | Moderate; alert and expressive |
| Maintenance Level | Rough coats need stripping; smooth coats low care |
| Health Risk | Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois)s can be prone to several inherited or structure-related health concerns, so health testing, weight management and early veterinary advice are particularly important. |
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Breed history of Brussels Griffons
The Brussels Griffon began in Belgium as a small stable dog used to control rats in carriage houses. Its foundation was the rough-coated street and stable dog known as the Griffon d’Ecurie, later crossed with toy breeds such as the Pug and King Charles Spaniel to refine its head, expression and companion-dog qualities.
The breed gained popularity in Brussels society and was especially helped by royal interest from Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium. Its history explains the Griffon’s unusual mixture of rough terrier-like origin and toy-dog expression, as well as the existence of both rough and smooth coat types.
Physical description of Brussels Griffons
The Brussels Griffon is a small, compact toy breed with a square body and a remarkably expressive, almost human-like face. It has a domed head, large dark eyes, short nose and prominent chin, creating a characterful and slightly comical expression.
The breed may have either a rough or smooth coat. Rough-coated Griffons have a wiry texture with a beard and moustache, while smooth-coated Griffons have a short, glossy coat; colours include red, black, black and tan, and beige.
| Weight range | 3 to 6 kg |
| Height range | 18 to 28 cm |
| Colours | Red, beige, black and tan, or black |
| Coat length | Rough wiry coat or smooth short coat |
Brussels Griffon personality and temperament
The Brussels Griffon is lively, affectionate and expressive, with a big personality in a small body. It is often alert, curious and full of character, forming very close attachments to its favourite people.
This breed thrives on companionship and may become sensitive or demanding if left alone too often. Brussels Griffons can be wary of strangers and sometimes vocal, so gentle socialisation and positive training help build confidence and good manners.
Brussels Griffons with kids and other pets
Brussels Griffons can be affectionate and entertaining companions, but they are often best suited to homes with older children who can handle them gently. Their small size and sensitive nature mean they may not enjoy rough play or being overwhelmed by very young children.
With other pets, Brussels Griffons can do well when introduced early and carefully. They often enjoy canine companionship and can live with cats, but supervision is sensible around larger dogs because of their small size.
Brussels Griffon training and exercise
Brussels Griffons need moderate exercise, usually including daily walks, indoor play and interactive games. They are small but lively dogs that enjoy attention and mental stimulation. Short activity sessions throughout the day can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
Training should be gentle, positive and consistent. Brussels Griffons can be sensitive and may not respond well to harsh correction. Early socialisation is important to build confidence, while reward-based training helps manage barking, shyness or stubborn behaviour.
| Energy level | Moderate |
| Exercise requirements | Moderate - short walks, play and brain games |
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Brussels Griffon feeding and nutrition
The Brussels Griffon needs a high-quality small-breed diet that supports its small body, moderate energy and overall health. Protein helps maintain lean muscle, while healthy fats support skin and coat condition, whether the dog has a rough or smooth coat.
Because Brussels Griffons are small, careful portion control is important. Overfeeding, frequent treats or rich human foods can quickly lead to weight gain or digestive upset. Meals should be measured and suited to the dog’s age, weight and activity level.
Brussels Griffon care and grooming
The Brussels Griffon may have either a rough or smooth coat, and grooming needs vary by coat type. Smooth-coated Griffons need weekly brushing with a soft brush or grooming mitt, while rough-coated Griffons require more regular combing to prevent tangles around the beard, legs and face.
Rough-coated Brussels Griffons may need professional grooming or hand-stripping to maintain the correct texture and tidy appearance. Facial hair should be kept clean, and the eyes may need gentle wiping. Regular nail trimming, dental care, ear checks and occasional bathing are important for both coat types.
Health issues for Brussels Griffons
- Brachycephalic airway issues: Breathing disorders in flat-faced dogs where narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate or other airway changes make airflow difficult. Signs may include noisy breathing, snoring, snorting, exercise intolerance, gagging, overheating, collapse or breathing distress.
- Eye injuries: These can include scratches, corneal ulcers, foreign bodies, chemical irritation, bite wounds or blunt trauma to the eye. Signs may include squinting, redness, tearing, cloudiness, discharge, pawing at the eye, bleeding or the eye appearing swollen or displaced.
- Patellar luxation: A developmental orthopaedic condition where the kneecap slips out of its normal groove, causing intermittent skipping, limping, pain or reduced mobility. It is more common in small breeds and severity ranges from mild to persistent lameness.
- Syringomyelia: A neurological condition where fluid-filled cavities form within the spinal cord, often linked to Chiari-like malformation in dogs. Signs may include neck or back pain, sensitivity to touch, weakness, wobbliness, scratching at the neck or ears, and behaviour changes.
- Dental disease: This commonly involves plaque and tartar build-up that inflames the gums and can progress to periodontal disease, pain, infection and tooth loss.
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FAQs about the Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois)
It can be, provided the household matches the breed’s exercise, training, grooming and supervision needs.
Moderate – short walks, play and brain games.
Shedding depends on coat type, season and grooming routine. The breed has a rough wiry coat or smooth short coat.
No. While some individuals may shed less than others, no dog breed is truly allergy-free.
Most respond well to positive, consistent training, but owners should work with the breed’s instincts rather than against them.
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MORE INFORMATION
Country Griffon Bruxellois Club of NSW: https://www.griffonnsw.com/
The Griffon Bruxellois Club of Victoria: https://www.griffonclubvic.com/
