Griffon Bruxellois
Alert Apartment-friendly Companionable Great with kids High energy dog Hunt and kill vermin in stables Inquisitive Self-important Sensitive Sheds a lot Watchful

Griffon Bruxellois

Height 9 - 11 in (23 - 28 cm)
Weight 12 lbs (5 kg)
Lifespan 10 – 15 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Griffon Bruxellois Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Do you live in a hot climate?

Breed Characteristics

The consensus from the sources indicates that Griffon Bruxellois require around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day, consisting of walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. The majority of sources suggest a moderate level of exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

How much exercise does Griffon Bruxellois need?

Low High
While Brussels Griffons are intelligent and eager to please, they can also be stubborn and sensitive, which may pose challenges in training. The mixed feedback suggests that training success can vary based on individual temperament and consistency of methods.

Is Griffon Bruxellois easy to train?

Low High
The consensus from the sources suggests that Griffon Bruxellois needs regular grooming, including brushing at least weekly, professional grooming 3-4 times a year, and teeth brushing at least three times a week. The grooming requirements for this breed are considered relatively high, hence a rating of 4.

How much grooming does Griffon Bruxellois need?

Low High
The consensus from multiple sources indicates that Griffon Bruxellois are highly intelligent, quick learners, and have a strong bond with their owners, making them easy to train. Their ability to understand human gestures and emotions well further supports the high intelligence rating.

How intelligent is Griffon Bruxellois?

Low High
The consensus suggests that while Brussels Griffons can be independent and stubborn, they also require close interaction with their owners. They are intelligent but may exhibit challenging behavior, requiring consistent training.

Is Griffon Bruxellois stubborn or independent?

Low High
The consensus is mixed, with some sources mentioning that Brussels Griffons are not big barkers, while others highlight that they can bark a lot, especially in certain situations like when someone approaches the door or when they see other animals. Therefore, a moderate rating of 3 is chosen.

Does Griffon Bruxellois bark a lot?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Brussels Griffons need around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day, which includes walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. The majority of sources suggest that 30-45 minutes of exercise is sufficient, with some recommending more. This places the playtime needs of a Griffon Bruxellois at a high level.

How much playtime does a Griffon Bruxellois need daily?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that while Griffon Bruxellois benefit from outdoor walks, they can still stay indoors with limited walks as long as they receive mental stimulation and playtime. The moderate exercise needs can be met with daily walks of around 30 minutes, coupled with indoor play sessions.

Can Griffon Bruxellois stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Griffon Bruxellois can be protective and alert, making them good watchdogs. While they may bark at strangers and be loyal to their owners, they are less likely to display territorial behavior or guard resources. Some individuals may show protective tendencies, but overall, they are not highly territorial.

Is Griffon Bruxellois protective or territorial?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Griffon Bruxellois are highly affectionate, form strong bonds with their owners, love human companionship, and are often referred to as 'Velcro dogs' for their desire to be close to their family members.

Is Griffon Bruxellois affectionate with family?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Griffon Bruxellois a hypoallergenic breed?

The general consensus from the sources is that the Griffon Bruxellois, also known as the Brussels Griffon, is not considered a hypoallergenic breed. While some sources mention that the wiry-coated variety may be more hypoallergenic than the smooth-coated ones, it is emphasized that they still produce dander and are not suitable for individuals with allergies. The breed sheds minimally but can still trigger allergic reactions due to the presence of saliva and urine. It is noted that the Brussels Griffon is a small, intelligent, and sensitive breed, but it is not recommended for allergy sufferers. The term "hypoallergenic" is not commonly associated with this breed, and other dog breeds are typically suggested for individuals with allergies.


Is Griffon Bruxellois prone to allergies?

Brussels Griffons, also known as Griffon Bruxellois, are prone to various allergies including environmental allergies (such as pollen, dust, and grass), food allergies (beef, dairy, wheat), and flea allergies. While they are considered a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 13-14 years, common conditions to watch for include cataracts and allergies. Despite shedding less than some breeds, Brussels Griffons are not hypoallergenic as they still produce dander, saliva, and urine. Allergic dermatitis, often manifested as itchiness, is a common issue for dogs with allergies, including Griffon Bruxellois. It is advised that individuals with allergies carefully consider this breed as a pet, as they may not be suitable for those with sensitivities. Food allergies are also quite common among Brussels Griffons, with triggers ranging from specific proteins to more generic ingredients.


What are common health issues in Griffon Bruxellois?

The Griffon Bruxellois, or Brussels Griffon, is generally a healthy breed with few common health concerns. However, potential health issues to be aware of include heart conditions, eye defects like cataracts, orthopedic problems such as patella luxation and hip dysplasia, and breathing difficulties in hot or humid weather. They are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections common to all dogs, and may experience snoring due to their flat-faced structure. Other health issues reported in Griffons include progressive retinal atrophy, syringomyelia, hypothyroidism, cleft palates, anasarca, slipping patellas, stenotic nares, and spinal cord problems like herniated discs. Additionally, some individuals may develop fatty lipomas or fluid in the lungs or chest cavity, often associated with heart or lung diseases. It is important for Griffon Bruxellois owners to monitor their pets for these potential health issues and consult with a veterinarian for proper care and management.


How often should a Griffon Bruxellois visit the vet?

Griffon Bruxellois dogs should visit the vet regularly, with the frequency depending on their age, breed, lifestyle, and overall health. It is recommended to have their teeth brushed at least three times a week due to potential dental issues. Regular vet check-ups are essential for monitoring their health, determining the right time for desexing, and addressing any signs of infection in their ears. Socialization, basic obedience training, a proper diet, and regular vet visits are crucial for their well-being. Overall, Griffon Bruxellois dogs need to be active, eat well, and have consistent veterinary care to ensure a long and healthy life.


What is the average vet bill for a Griffon Bruxellois?

The average cost of a routine vet visit for a Griffon Bruxellois can range from $25 to $186, with an average cost of around $61. Additional expenses for services such as senior blood work, cytology, vaccinations, dental care, and lab tests can contribute to annual vet costs totaling between $700 and $1,500. Initial consultations for specific medical conditions may range from $195 to $250. Surgical vet visits for dog owners are estimated to cost around $458 a year, while routine vet exams cost approximately $242 annually. Overall, pet owners can expect to spend between $500 to $1,000 per year on vet bills for a Brussels Griffon.


Join Our Pet-Loving Community

Get info from fellow pet owners, and help them by sharing your experiences, and get advice from experts and enthusiasts .

Share your pet's photos and stories
Get personalized breed recommendations
Ask questions and get answers from experts
Connect with local pet owners
Save your favorite breeds and articles

Join Now - It's Free!