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The Brussels Griffon is a
sweet dog that is a good companion for either home or
apartment. The Brussels Griffon coat does need regular
grooming but this dog is pleasant and will bring happiness to
most families.
This dog has a bug eyed look
as a result of having large round eyes placed above a short
muzzle and bracocephalic (foreshortened) nostrils. In warm
weather, this type of facial characteristic can lead to
difficulty breathing, as is true of all breeds with smaller
nasal passages. Also, dogs like this one with large eyes are
more easily subjected to irritations or scratches, also
resulting from having longer hair around their face and
eyes.
This breed's eyes should be checked every day and flushed out
often. The Brussels Griffon can also suffer a slipped knee cap
(patella) more easily than other of the toy breeds. Keep in
mind that for this as for other toy breeds, pet owners should
prevent their dog, especially if a puppy, from jumping off
furniture or landing on hard floor surfaces as this can damage
their small legs.
This dog can be known by
different names: the Petite Brabancon, the Griffon Bruxellois,
(Brussels Griffon), and the Griffon Belge. They have pug like
features and petite size as a result of crossing the pug with
a King Charles Spaniel and a larger sized Stable Griffon. This
dog was first bred in 1883, and while some of the first dogs
were likely bred by German or Dutch breeders, most of the
further development of this breed seems to come from Belgian
breeders.
The "Griffs" as
they are known have become more popular in the United States
as both a pet and as show dogs, after being introduced in the
U.S. during the mid 1950s.
There are separate show classes for both rough coat and
smooth coated animals, instead of the different varieties
within the Toy group. This breed will be seen often in the
conformation ring and also more frequently as a family pet and
also apartment dog. These small dogs are known for having an
inquisitive and intelligent nature. The AKC standard suggests
a temperament that is "full of self-importance"
which truly hit the nail on the head. Griff owners do best
when they allow the Griffon puppy to believe that he is
responsible for the idea of training,
which tends to help along the training process for this
independent minded dog.
There are two coat varieties
of the Brussels Griffon. One variety has harsh coat, having
wiry, dense hair while the other variety has a smooth coat,
which is short and glossy. This dog should be regularly
brushed, as this can help maintain a healthy and clean coat,
as well as avoid matting of the fur.
Brushing lets you stay in contact with how your dog's
overall health is, and creates a closer emotional bond with
your dog.
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