The Vet’s Guide to Brussels Griffons: Facts, Care, and Training Tips

The Brussels Griffon may be tiny in size, but this toy breed is packed with confidence, intelligence, and affection. 

Famous for its human-like expression and spirited personality, the “Griff” thrives on companionship and makes an ideal pet for those seeking a dog with character and charm.

Don’t be fooled by their delicate appearance—Brussels Griffons are active, alert, and happiest when involved in family life. This breed brings a lot of personality into a small package, thriving in a range of households and love getting involved.

Background & Breed History

The Brussels Griffon originated in Belgium in the 1800s, where it was bred from a mix of Affenpinscher, Pug, and English Toy Spaniel. Originally used to hunt rats in stables, the breed’s bold and expressive nature soon made it a favourite among the Belgian upper class. Over time, the Brussels Griffon was refined into the companion dog we know today—loving, bright, and full of quirky charm.

Appearance

Brussels Griffons are small but sturdy, with a short body and an expressive, almost human-like face. Their large, dark eyes and upturned nose give them a comical yet endearing look. They come in two coat types—rough (with a wiry, beard-like texture) and smooth (short and sleek).

Physical Characteristics

Most adult Brussels Griffons weigh between 3.5 and 6.5 kg and stand around 18 to 28 cm tall. Coat colours include red, black, black and tan, and belge (a mix of black and reddish-brown). Despite their dainty size, they are solidly built and surprisingly agile.

Temperament

This breed is known for its big personality and emotional sensitivity. Brussels Griffons are deeply attached to their humans and tend to follow them from room to room. They are affectionate, curious, and full of playful energy—but may be shy or cautious with strangers. Early socialisation is key to building a well-adjusted, confident Griff.

Activity Level

While not overly energetic, Brussels Griffons need daily mental and physical stimulation. Short walks, playtime, and interactive toys are usually enough to keep them content. They excel at dog sports like agility and rally if given the chance.

Health

Common health issues in the breed include dog dental disease, brachycephalic airway syndrome (due to their short muzzles), eye problems, and luxating patella (a knee joint condition). Routine vet checks, good dental hygiene, and careful breeding practices can reduce health risks.

Lifespan

Brussels Griffons typically live between 12 and 15 years. With a well-balanced diet, regular vet care, and proper grooming, they can enjoy a long, healthy life by your side.

Whether your Griff has a rough or smooth coat, regular grooming is key to maintaining their comfort and good looks. This breed's expressive face and dense coat need consistent care to stay clean and healthy.

Grooming Requirements

Rough-coated Brussels Griffons have a dense, wiry coat that requires weekly brushing and hand-stripping every few months to maintain texture. Without this, their coat can become matted or lose its distinct scruff. Smooth-coated Griffons are lower maintenance but still need weekly brushing to control shedding and keep the coat shiny.

Bathing

Both coat types should be bathed every four to six weeks or as needed. Use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo that won’t strip the natural oils from their skin. Pay special attention to their facial folds and beard area, which can trap food and moisture.

Dental Care

Brussels Griffons are prone to dental problems, so brushing their teeth several times a week is essential. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and consider dog dental chews or vet-recommended dental diets to help prevent tartar buildup and gum disease.

Clean Ears and Facial Folds

Check their ears weekly for signs of wax build-up, odour, or redness. Wipe the outer ear gently with a damp cloth or vet-approved cleaner. For rough-coated Griffs, clean around the beard and eyes daily to prevent staining and irritation.

Nail Trimming

Due to their small size, Griffons often don't wear down their nails naturally. Trim their nails every three to four weeks or when you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a small, sharp dog clipper and go slowly to avoid cutting the quick.

Brussels Griffons are smart and affectionate, but their sensitive nature means training must be kind, consistent, and reward-based. When handled gently, they can become enthusiastic learners and delightful companions.

Positive Reinforcement

This breed learns best through encouragement and praise. Avoid harsh corrections or loud voices, as they can cause your Griff to shut down or become anxious. Reward good behaviour with dog treats, dog toys, and plenty of positive attention.

Use Treats and Keep Sessions Short

Brussels Griffons are food-motivated and quick to learn when they are in the mood. Use small, tasty dog treats during training and aim for brief sessions that focus on one skill at a time. Be patient and calm, especially if they seem easily distracted or hesitant.

Socialisation

Early socialisation is vital for this breed. Without it, they may become shy or reactive toward new people or unfamiliar situations. Gradual exposure to different environments, friendly strangers, and other pets will help your Griff become more confident and adaptable.

House Training

House training can be a bit of a challenge with small breeds, and Brussels Griffons are no exception. Keep a regular feeding and toilet schedule, reward success immediately, and consider crate training to build routine. Some extra patience during rainy or cold weather may be required.

Obedience and Mental Stimulation

Basic commands like sit, stay, and come are essential. Brussels Griffons enjoy learning and thrive when their minds are kept active. Try interactive toys, trick training, or beginner agility to keep them mentally engaged and prevent boredom.

Brussels Griffons are generally long-lived and healthy, but their small size and unique features can make them prone to certain medical concerns. Regular vet checkups and early intervention are key to keeping them in top shape.

Dental Disease

Toy breeds like Brussels Griffons often struggle with dental health. Their small mouths can lead to crowded teeth and early tartar build-up. Brush their teeth several times a week, offer dental chews, and schedule regular professional cleanings to prevent gum disease.

Learn more about how nutrition can support your dog's dental health in our best dental dog food veterinarian-approved guide.

Breathing Difficulties

Due to their flat faces, Brussels Griffons may suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome. This can cause noisy breathing, snorting, or exercise intolerance. Avoid overheating, keep them cool in warm weather, and limit strenuous activity during hot or humid days.

Eye Problems

Large, prominent eyes are part of the Griff's signature look but can make them vulnerable to injury and irritation. Watch for signs like redness, squinting, or discharge. Clean the eye area gently and speak with your vet if any changes appear.

Luxating Patella

This is a common issue in small dogs where the kneecap slips out of place. It may cause temporary limping or skipping during walks. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and avoiding jumping off furniture can help reduce stress on the joints.

Learn more about how nutrition can support your dog's mobility health in our vet-approved guide to the best dog food for joint support.

Syringomyelia

This rare but serious condition affects the brain and spinal cord. Signs include neck sensitivity, air scratching, or sudden pain. If you notice these symptoms, seek veterinary care for diagnosis and treatment options.

Skin Allergies

Some Brussels Griffons are prone to allergies, which may show up as itchy skin, red patches, or chronic ear infections. Identifying triggers, adjusting their diet, and using medicated shampoos may be part of the treatment plan.

Brussels Griffons are full of personality, but their emotional sensitivity means they can be prone to anxiety and strong attachment. Understanding their behaviour helps you create a calm and confident companion.

Velcro Dog Tendencies

Brussels Griffons form intense bonds with their people and often follow them everywhere. While this makes them wonderful companions, it can also lead to separation anxiety if left alone too often. Gradual alone-time training, puzzle toys, and a consistent routine can help build independence.

Stranger Shyness

Some Griffs may be reserved or vocal around unfamiliar people. This is not typically aggression, but a sign of caution or insecurity. Early and positive exposure to a range of people can help reduce this behaviour over time.

Sensitivity to Environment

These dogs are highly perceptive and may become stressed in loud or chaotic environments. They do best in calm, structured households where they feel safe. Watch for signs of stress like pacing, hiding, or excessive barking, and create a quiet space they can retreat to when needed.

Barking

Brussels Griffons are alert and can be vocal if they feel the need to warn you about visitors or new sounds. Training a quiet command and redirecting their attention can help manage excessive barking.

Managing Stubborn Moments

While generally cooperative, some Griffs have a stubborn streak. Keep training fun and engaging, and avoid repeating commands in frustration. Instead, reset the situation and offer praise for even small successes.

While they are small, Brussels Griffons are energetic and clever, and they need regular activity to stay balanced. Daily exercise and mental stimulation are essential for preventing boredom and behavioural issues.

Daily Walks

A couple of short walks each day—around 20 to 30 minutes total—is usually enough for this breed. They enjoy sniffing and exploring but do not need intense exercise. Choose cooler times of the day in hot weather, especially for flat-faced dogs.

Playtime Indoors

Brussels Griffons enjoy indoor play sessions and games with their favourite humans. Use soft dog toys, balls, or tug ropes to keep things fun and active. Their small size makes them well-suited to apartments or homes without large yards.

Puzzle Toys and Enrichment

Food-dispensing dog toys and dog puzzle feeders are excellent for mental stimulation. Hide treats or meals inside and encourage your dog to problem-solve. Simple training games like "find it" or "touch" can also work their brain.

Social Play

Some Brussels Griffons enjoy playdates with other small, gentle dogs. Supervise all interactions, especially if the other dog is much larger or overly rough, as Griffs can be delicate despite their bold attitude.

Training as Exercise

Short, upbeat training sessions also count as enrichment. Teaching new tricks or revisiting basic commands helps keep your Griffon's mind sharp and adds structure to their day.

Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons need a well-balanced diet to maintain their energy levels, support joint health, and avoid common issues like dental disease or obesity. Quality ingredients and correct portioning are key.

Nutritional Balance

Choose a small breed high-quality dry dog food with animal protein as the first ingredient. Brussels Griffons do well on diets rich in lean meats, healthy fats for skin and coat health, and added vitamins and minerals for immune support. Avoid fillers, artificial additives, or heavily processed foods.

Puppy Nutrition

Brussels Griffon puppies need specially formulated small breed puppy food that supports their rapid growth without excess calories. Feed measured meals three to four times a day, and consult your vet about adjusting portion sizes as they grow.

We've also created a handy downloadable puppy feeding schedule to help you build your routine and keep track of your puppy's nutritional needs as they grow.

Adult and Senior Nutrition

As adults, Griffs benefit from foods that support joint health and are calorie-controlled to prevent weight gain. For seniors, the best senior dog food will have added joint supplements, lower fat content, and easy-to-digest proteins to match their slower metabolism.

Unsure if your dog is overweight? Use our vet-approved guide to assess whether your dog is a healthy weight.

Dental Health Support

Given their predisposition to dental issues, consider feeding dry kibble formulated for dental care or using mixed feeding with occasional dental chews. Crunchy kibble helps reduce tartar, and some diets are designed to support oral health specifically.

Learn more about how nutrition can support your dog's dental health in our best dental dog food veterinarian-approved guide.

Portion Control

Brussels Griffons can gain weight easily, especially with too many treats. Use measuring cups at each meal, and feed based on your vet’s guidance for your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Split meals into two portions a day to help prevent hunger-related begging.

Hydration

Always provide access to fresh water. If your dog eats dry kibble, adding a splash of water or rotating in some wet dog food can help improve hydration, especially in warmer weather.

Adoption and Rescue

Rescue groups and shelters often have Brussels Griffons or Griffon crosses available. These dogs may come from homes where their needs were misunderstood. Reputable rescues assess health and temperament and can help find a Griff that fits your lifestyle. Adoption is a great option for experienced dog owners looking to offer a second chance.

Buying from a Breeder

If buying a puppy, choose a responsible breeder who focuses on health, temperament, and proper early socialisation. Ask to see health clearances for common issues like patella luxation, eye problems, and heart conditions. Puppies should be raised indoors with regular human interaction.

What to Look For

Good breeders are transparent, ask you questions, and provide lifetime support. Avoid backyard breeders, online sellers with vague details, or anyone who will not let you meet the puppy and its mother. Expect to join a waitlist, as ethical breeders do not overbreed.

Questions to Ask

• What health tests have the parents had?
• Are puppies raised in the home?
• What socialisation do you provide?
• Do you offer a health guarantee?
• Can I meet both parents or at least the mother?

Breed Clubs and Support

Check with Australian breed clubs or platforms like RightPaw for breeder listings and education. These resources can help you find reputable breeders who meet high welfare standards.

If you love the Brussels Griffon’s quirky charm and loyal companionship, you may also enjoy these breeds with similar traits in size, personality, or grooming needs.

• Affenpinscher – Playful, confident, and just as expressive, Affenpinschers are closely related to Griffs and share their monkey-like face and lively nature.
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Affectionate and gentle, Cavaliers are loving lap dogs with a sweet disposition and strong desire to be near their people.
• Pug – Another flat-faced companion breed, Pugs are humorous, social, and a bit stubborn, with an easygoing nature that suits many families.
• Yorkshire Terrier – Though more high-maintenance in the grooming department, Yorkies are clever, bold, and thrive on human companionship.
• French Bulldog – Slightly larger but similar in temperament, French Bulldogs are loyal and affectionate with a touch of clownish charm.
• Chihuahua – Like the Griffon, Chihuahuas are packed with personality, but come in a lighter, more compact frame that suits apartment living.

Each of these breeds brings its own personality and care needs but shares the Brussels Griffon’s love of companionship and tendency to form close bonds with their family.

Whether you're bringing home a Brussels Griffon puppy or adopting an adult, this breed offers a lifetime of affection, charm, and character. With the right care, training, and attention to their unique needs, your Griff will be a loyal and entertaining companion for years to come.

This article was written by Dr. Jack Ayerbe