Brussels Griffon Dog
This unusual and lively little dog was first used to hunt out rats in their motherland, Belgium. Today, they are a much-loved family companion that will bring a smile to the faces of those who invite this wonderful breed into their homes.
Brussels Griffon At A Glance
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate curious and charming |
| Suitable | Family friendly with correct training |
| Health | Generally a healthy robust dog however can suffer from breed-related issues |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Anal Sac Disorder | $241.96 |
| Ear Conditions | $202.16 |
| Eye Conditions | $633.25 |
| Gastrointestinal Tract Condition | $1,347.63 |
| Liver/Gallbladder/Biliary Tract Condition | $4,579.02 |
| Muscle/Skeletal Conditions – Arthritis/Hip Disorder | $194.00 |
| Arthritis | $450.00 |
| Hip Disorder | $756.47 |
| Patella Luxation | $6,335.69 |
| Neoplasia or Mass Lesion | $2,034.78 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
Training Your Brussels Griffon
Don’t be fooled by size; this wee little bundle needs a good dose of training, or they will most certainly have the whole household trained! A lively little dog that will thrive in an active, loving household. They have been known to be challenging to house-train, so consider crate training and stay persistent. Griffons are known for being bossy boots, so early training is essential. Like all breeds, your Griffon will need early socialisation to grow into a well-rounded dog, so think of as many sights, sounds and situations as possible. Puppy preschools work wonderfully for this and can also help with early training. They need positive training with plenty of repetition. This breed loves to stick like glue to those they love. However, your little shadow must learn some good doggy manners, particularly regarding visitors. Lots of praise and a little tasty food go a long way in training these wee dogs. Like all breeds, long, boring training sessions will not interest your pup. Keep it fun, light and positive. When you see your dog losing interest, change the training or take a break. They excel in all dog sports and will actively participate in any adventure you partake in.
Grooming - Rough Coat vs. Smooth Coat
The Griffon comes in two coat types: rough and smooth. The rough-coated variety (or wire coat) will require weekly grooming with a bristle brush and a metal comb to keep the coat mat free and looking its best. The coat will also need the attention of a professional groomer twice a year to ‘hand strip. Some owners also clip their rough-coated Griffons to keep the coat feeling soft.
Their smooth-coated cousins do not need the same attention and will benefit from a weekly brush with a rubber mitt to remove dead hair. Vet-proofing your pet is also a good idea, this includes clipping their nails and getting your dog used to having their paws, faces, ears and teeth touched without any fear. This can help with vet visits down the line.
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Common Health Concerns - Brussels Griffon
Like with all pure dog breeds, the Brussels Griffon can have unique health issues. While they are generally a healthy dog breed, the Brussels Griffon can be predisposed to specific health problems, including:
- Brachycephalic Breed: The Brussels Griffon is part of a breed of dogs that are considered Brachycephalic. Due to their shortened nose and flat face, many of these breeds can suffer from breathing-related issues. The narrowed nostrils and an elongated soft palate familiar with this breed can cause respiratory difficulties. Possible owners must understand the importance of keeping their pet cool and avoiding over-exercising, which can induce breathing issues. Brachycephalic dog breeds are also known for snoring. Common surgeries include widening of the nostrils, known as resection rhinoplasty and partial staphylectomy to reduce the length and thickness of the soft palate.
- Eye Issues: Those lovely bulgy eyes can also be more prone to certain conditions, including Cataracts, Corneal Ulcers, and Distichiasis (an extra row of eyelashes). Cataracts are cloudy patches that affect the eyes and vision, while Corneal Ulcers are common wounds on the cornea, often due to trauma.
- Patellar Luxation: A common problem in smaller dogs, Patella Luxation, also known as "slipped stifles," occurs when the patella is not correctly lined up. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait. Treatment for mild cases may include physiotherapy; however, surgery is advisable as a form of therapy for most.
- Hip Dysplasia: Don’t be fooled by size. Hip Dysplasia can also affect smaller dog breeds. A painful condition caused when the hip joint and thigh bone do not fit correctly together. Treatments can include anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy, and exercise. In severe cases, treatment for Hip Dysplasia will require surgery.
- Dental Issues: As with other smaller breeds, dental issues can also pose a big problem for the Brussels Griffon. The breed often suffers from overcrowding and misaligned teeth that make them much more susceptible to dental disease and other dental concerns. Regular dental care, including teeth brushing and yearly professional cleaning, is advisable.
- Syringomyelia (SM): This severe condition is also prevalent in Brachycephalic dog breeds. It causes cavities or cysts within the spinal cord near the brain, leading to neuropathic pain and phantom scratching. It is also known as "neck scratcher's disease" because one significant symptom can be air scratching near the neck. Treatment can include physiotherapy, lifestyle changes and, in severe cases, surgery.
- Heart Concerns: Mitral valve disease is a common heart condition affecting smaller, older dogs such as the Brussels Griffon. This is a condition where the heart's mitral valve deteriorates and leaks. Treatment includes medication.
- Collapsed Trachea: Another condition familiar to smaller breeds, Collapsed Trachea is caused when the cartilage rings of the tracheal begin to weaken and collapse. Symptoms include a harsh, honking-like cough. Treatment can include lifestyle changes such as weight loss and avoiding anything that can inflame the airways. Steroids and medications may also be prescribed.
- Ear Infections: Those adorable floppy ears also need some attention. Brussel Griffons are susceptible to ear yeast and bacterial infections, as with other dog breeds. Regular cleaning and monitoring are vital for ear health. Symptoms include ear flapping and ear/face scratching.
- Heat Sensitivity: Being a Brachycephalic dog breed, the Brussels Griffon is prone to heatstroke and dehydration. These dogs must be kept cool and comfortable on hot summer days to prevent problems.
Exercise Requirements
This little dog can be an excellent house dog but does require a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They don’t necessarily need an enormous backyard to burn off this energy, but they require an excellent off-leash run and brisk daily walk. However, care must be taken during the heat. This breed can suffer from heatstroke quickly, so always take care during summertime entertainment. Consider enrolling in a dog sport for an extracurricular activity where you and your dog can excel.
Intelligence
The Griffon is a clever wee fellow who will lead if nobody is around. They adore their family and will tend to have a favourite in the household that may leave others a little jealous of your four-legged BFF. Because of this intelligent streak and need to be loved, your dog will become destructive if left alone for long periods or not sufficiently exercised or trained. Consider boredom-busting toys like treatballs and Kongs, plus rotate your home-alone toys daily.
Family Friendly
The Griffon can be a one-person dog and will thrive in the homes of those who have said goodbye to their grown children. They love to be loved and to be the shadow of their loving owners. The breed can become irritated at loud, unruly children or those who demand cuddles or chasing. However, in saying this, if the pup has grown up around children, they can quickly learn to tolerate such excitement in the home. Like with all breeds, large or small, your children need to be taught how to interact with a dog correctly and a dog trained how to play with a child correctly. Supervision is always recommended with any dog/child relationship. Remember that sitting cuddles that are instigated by the pup is always best. Griffons will live well with other pets, particularly after good socialisation as pups.
Indoor/outdoor?
This breed does not take well to life outdoors. They will struggle in the heat and the cold weather. This makes them ideally suited to apartment life and life in the lap of a loving owner. They are most certainly house dogs. Ensure your pet always has ample cool and weatherproof areas and ample water. Never exercise your pup in the heat of the day.
Responsible Breeding
It is imperative to only source your new Brussels Griffon from a reputable breeding establishment to ensure your puppy is happy and healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems, and if you can, ask to view Mum and Dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder; a good breeder will be well-known in these circles. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments and grow into well-rounded dogs. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain in dealing with a chronically sick puppy.
Contact PIA for Brussels Griffon Pet Insurance
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Brussels Griffons. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
