Self-assured and bright, with a proud, slightly comic air. It attaches strongly to its person, keeps a close eye on its surroundings, and should be neither shy nor snappy.134
how to spot oneGriffon Bruxellois coat and colours
rough (wiry, with undercoat) or smooth
A small, square, sturdy dog with a big round head, short nose and a strikingly human-looking face. The Bruxellois proper wears a harsh, bearded coat; the smooth-coated form has short hair of up to about 2 cm.14
Coloursred or reddish (FCI Griffon Bruxellois)blackblack and tan14
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Griffon Bruxellois. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
by countryIs the Griffon Bruxellois legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Griffon Bruxellois in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksGriffon Bruxellois exercise needs
Modest: around half an hour of exercise a day suits it, plus play and company.4
the hands-on bitsGriffon Bruxellois grooming and care
Grooming more than once a week. The rough coat is usually hand-stripped to keep its texture; the smooth coat just needs a brush.4
where they are happiestGriffon Bruxellois at home
Its small size makes it easy to keep in a flat or house, as long as it is with its people.4
who they like aroundGriffon Bruxellois with people and other pets
A people-focused companion that likes to be close to its owner and does best when not left alone for long.13
where it all beganGriffon Bruxellois history
It grew out of the Smousje, a scruffy little dog kept in Brussels stables to catch rats. In the 1800s breeders added Pug and toy spaniel blood, which gave the flat face and the smooth coat. Queen Marie Henriette's fondness for the breed made it fashionable, and British breeders helped it survive after the Second World War.124
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Dogs of this type appear in Flemish paintings as far back as the 15th century.4
2
The first Griffons were entered in the Belgian studbook in 1883.1
3
The Griffon's face is said to have helped inspire the look of the Ewoks in Star Wars.2
4
A Brussels Griffon co-starred in the 1997 film As Good as It Gets, which boosted its popularity in the US.2
5
Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium championed the breed in the late 1800s.2
I wake up on my human's lap, which is my favorite place. I give a little chirp to say good morning, and she smiles. We have a quiet breakfast, well, I watch her eat, but I get a scratch behind the ears. Then we go for a short walk around the block. I inspect every lamppost and greet my doggy friends with a proud little bow. Back home, I sit by the window and keep an eye on the street. When my human returns from the kitchen, I hop up and do my happy dance. We cuddle on the couch, and I feel like the king of the castle.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 80, Group 9 Companion and Toy Dogs, Section 3 Small Belgian Dogs. FCI lists the Griffon Belge (81) and Petit Brabançon (82) as separate breeds.1
The Royal Kennel Club
Toy group; one breed with rough and smooth coats in red, black, and black and tan.4
Because of their flat face and crowded teeth, choose small, irregular kibble and VOHC-approved dental chews sized for toy dogs, counting every treat toward their daily calories to avoid weight gain. Their sensitive tummies often do best with a novel or hydrolysed protein diet, so ask your vet before introducing new treats.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Griffon Bruxellois, and at what times?
Feed your Griffon Bruxellois at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. The exact times can be set to suit your routine, but aim for consistent meal times. For amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5
What should a Griffon Bruxellois eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.6
How often should I bathe a Griffon Bruxellois?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. At least once every three months is a good general rule.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Griffon Bruxellois need brushing?
Brush your Griffon Bruxellois more than once a week. For the rough coat, hand-stripping every 12 weeks helps keep its texture; the smooth coat just needs regular brushing. Pet Wiki's plan recommends weekly brushing.4Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Griffon Bruxellois's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Griffon Bruxellois need?
This breed needs modest exercise, about half an hour a day, plus play and company. Daily walks and playtime are perfect. Its small size makes it easy to keep in a flat or house.4Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Griffon Bruxellois's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily with dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. For floppy ears, dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Griffon Bruxellois live?
The Griffon Bruxellois typically lives 12 years or more. Senior years usually start around age 10, so regular vet check-ups become even more important then.42Pet Wiki plan
Is a Griffon Bruxellois good with children and other pets?
This breed is self-assured and bright, attaching strongly to its person. It can be good with children and other pets if properly socialized, but it should be neither shy nor snappy. Always supervise interactions.134
Can a Griffon Bruxellois be left alone?
This is a people-focused companion that likes to be close to its owner and does best when not left alone for long. If you must leave it, provide company or enrichment, but it's happiest with you.13
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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