Griffon Bruxellois
3.2-5.0 kg
18-20 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Belgium
About the Griffon Bruxellois
The Griffon Bruxellois is a sturdy toy breed characterized by its unique 'monkey-like' face and large, expressive eyes. Originating from the small terrier-like dogs that hunted rats in Belgian stables, the breed was refined through crosses with the Pug and the King Charles Spaniel, resulting in the two coat varieties seen today. Despite their small stature, they possess a robust and 'cobby' frame, carrying themselves with a distinct air of self-importance that belies their affectionate and often clingy nature. In the home, the Griffon is a devoted companion that typically bonds intensely with one person, though they remain loyal to the whole family. They are highly intelligent but can be sensitive to harsh training methods, requiring a gentle and consistent hand. Their watchful nature makes them excellent little guardians who will alert their owners to any unusual activity. In Australia, they are cherished as adaptable pets suitable for various living situations, provided they receive the companionship they crave.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Griffon Bruxellois is defined by its 'human' expression, created by large, well-separated dark eyes and a prominent chin. The breed standard calls for a thick, wiry coat in the Rough variety and a square, cobby body that suggests strength without being heavy. Their movement is purposeful and steady, showing good reach and drive for a toy breed. What sets the Griffon apart is its 'spivvy' character—a combination of cheeky confidence and an almost uncanny ability to communicate through facial expressions, making them one of the most charismatic performers in the Toy Group.
In Australia
The first recorded Griffon Bruxellois arrived in Australia in 1910, according to the Griffon Bruxellois Club of Victoria.
Bred For
Originally bred as a stable dog to hunt and kill vermin, particularly rats, and to guard hansom cabs in Brussels.
Temperament
Intelligent, alert, self-important, and highly affectionate; they are often described as having a 'human-like' expression and a sensitive soul.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity; approximately 30 to 45 minutes of walking combined with indoor play and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
The Rough variety requires weekly brushing and professional hand-stripping every few months; the Smooth variety (Petit Brabançon) requires only weekly brushing and occasional baths.
Living Suitability
Excellently suited to apartment living and small homes. They are indoor dogs that require close proximity to their owners and do not need a large yard, though they enjoy a small, secure outdoor space for sniffing.
Good with Kids
Generally good with older, respectful children. Their small size and fine bone structure make them vulnerable to accidental injury by very young children or toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Usually peaceful with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats if socialized early. Their ratting heritage may occasionally trigger a prey drive toward very small pocket pets.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and capable of learning complex tasks, but they can be independent and 'willful.' They respond best to positive reinforcement and food-based rewards.
Coat & Colours
Two varieties: Rough (wiry, dense, and weather-resistant) and Smooth (short, straight, and glossy).. Red, Belge (mixed black and reddish-brown), 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
Prospective owners should be aware that Griffon Bruxellois are a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, making them more likely to experience Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This can lead to snoring, heat intolerance, and breathing difficulties in humid weather; it is vital to keep them cool and avoid over-exertion on hot Australian days. Their large eyes are prone to scratches and irritation, and they are more likely to develop cataracts or distichiasis—regular eye checks are recommended. Like many toy breeds, they are predisposed to dental disease due to tooth crowding in their small mouths, so a diet that supports dental health is beneficial. They can be prone to separation anxiety, as they thrive on human contact and may become vocal or destructive if left alone for long periods. Additionally, some Griffons are more likely to be affected by Syringomyelia (SM), a neurological condition related to skull shape; while not every dog is affected, it is a known breed predisposition. Finally, they can be a bit 'picky' or sensitive to standard commercial diets, often thriving much better on a fresh, limited-ingredient diet that avoids common fillers which can cause digestive upset or skin irritations.
Feeding Guide for Your Griffon Bruxellois
Healthy Weight
3.2-5.0 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
80-150 grams
For an adult Griffon Bruxellois, we recommend a fresh or raw food diet consisting of approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a typical 4kg adult, this equates to roughly 100-120 grams per day, split into two meals. Puppies and highly active adults may require the higher end of the percentage range (3%), while seniors or less active dogs may thrive on 2%. Always monitor body condition and adjust portions to maintain a visible waistline.
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-protein, nutrient-dense diet is ideal. They thrive on fresh or raw diets that minimize fillers to maintain a healthy weight and support dental health.
A balanced raw diet for a Griffon should focus on high-quality proteins like Majestik’s Kangaroo or Beef, which provide essential amino acids without excessive fats that lead to weight gain. Including a small percentage of steamed green vegetables can provide necessary fiber. Due to their brachycephalic nature, avoid oversized, hard bones that may pose a choking risk; instead, utilize ground raw options or very soft cartilage-rich pieces.
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.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Griffon Bruxellois 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 Griffon Bruxellois? 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
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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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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
1-3 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.