Brussels Griffon
3.2-5 kg
18-20 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Belgium
About the Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a captivating toy breed known for its 'human-like' expression and big personality. Often compared to Ewoks due to their bearded faces and large, dark eyes, these dogs are the quintessential 'velcro dogs' who form deep bonds with their owners. Despite their small size, they retain a terrier-like spark, a legacy of their history as stable-dwelling ratters in 19th-century Belgium. They are highly sensitive and intelligent, requiring a gentle touch and consistent companionship. In the modern home, the Brussels Griffon is a devoted companion that thrives on being the center of attention. They are adaptable to various living situations but are best suited for indoor life where they can stay close to their family. Whether they are the rough-coated variety with their iconic beard or the smooth-coated Petit Brabançon, they carry themselves with an amusing sense of self-importance that never fails to charm their guardians.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Brussels Griffon is distinguished by its 'monkey-like' visage and a pouty, undershot jaw that lends it a look of profound wisdom. Its movement is described as a brisk, purposeful trot with a level topline. The structure should be compact and 'cobby,' appearing sturdy despite its toy classification. What truly sets this breed apart is its unparalleled facial animation; a well-bred Griffon possesses a gaze of startling intelligence and emotional depth that is unique in the canine world, making them the ultimate 'big dog in a small package' for the discerning exhibitor.
Bred For
Originally bred to hunt and kill rats in stables, primarily in the city of Brussels.
Temperament
Affectionate, alert, curious, and intelligent with a distinctive self-important air.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity is required, such as a 30-minute walk combined with indoor play and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
The rough-coated variety requires regular brushing and professional hand-stripping 2-3 times a year. The smooth-coated variety (Petit Brabançon) requires weekly brushing and occasional baths.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living or small homes. They are indoor dogs that require climate control due to their flat faces.
Good with Kids
Best suited for homes with older, respectful children. Their small size makes them fragile, and they may be overwhelmed by loud or rough toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and can live peacefully with cats if introduced early. Their terrier ancestry may give them a slight prey drive toward very small pets.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but can be sensitive and occasionally stubborn. They respond best to positive reinforcement and short, engaging training sessions.
Coat & Colours
Two varieties: Rough (wiry and dense) and Smooth (short, glossy, and flat).. Red, Belge (mixture of red and black), Black and Tan, and solid Black.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
While endearing, Brussels Griffons are more likely to experience Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) due to their flat faces; this means they can be sensitive to heat and humidity, so air conditioning and limited exercise on hot days are essential. They are also prone to Syringomyelia (SM), a serious neurological condition involving fluid-filled cavities in the spinal cord, which may require veterinary management if symptoms occur. Their large, prominent eyes can be susceptible to scratches or irritation, needing regular checks. Owners should be aware of 'toy dog' dental crowding, which often leads to tartar buildup; a fresh food diet and regular brushing can help mitigate this. Their 'Velcro' nature means they are predisposed to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, but this is balanced by their absolute devotion to their humans. House training can sometimes take longer than other breeds, requiring patience and consistency. These quirks are part of their unique charm and are manageable with a committed, informed owner.
Feeding Guide for Your Brussels Griffon
Healthy Weight
3.2-5 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
80-120 grams
For an adult Brussels Griffon, a raw or fresh food diet should be fed at approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a 4 kg dog, this equates to roughly 80-120 grams per day, split into two meals. It is important to monitor their weight closely, as toy breeds can easily become overweight, which puts pressure on their joints.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense diet suited for small breeds. They often thrive on fresh, raw diets that are low in fillers and support dental health.
A balanced raw diet for a Brussels Griffon should focus on high-quality proteins such as Majestik's lean Beef or Kangaroo to maintain a healthy weight. Appropriately selected raw meaty bones may provide chewing enrichment, but they do not replace veterinary dental care and can present choking, tooth-fracture or gastrointestinal risks. Incorporating small amounts of pureed leafy greens or berries provides vital antioxidants for their sensitive systems.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Brussels Griffon Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Brussels Griffon? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
1-3 puppies
Brussels Griffon Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Brussels Griffon owners
Other Toy Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
