Overview
Average lifespan
Griffons can live up to 12 – 14 years of age.
Average size and weight
21cm to 28cm
2kg to 8kg
Care requirements
Breed personality, characteristics & temperament
The Griffon Bruxellois is a small dog with definite terrier instincts, and an inflated sense of self worth, however, its arrogant expression belies its loving and amiable disposition. The Griffon is very much what you make it. If you have children, the dog will enjoy their games and going for energetic walks. If you are older and your daily pursuits are more leisurely, the dog will grow up more sedate and become a close and loving friend. Griffons are very trainable and many have obedience and agility titles.
Compatibility with other pets
Excellent.
Care requirements
There are two distinct types of Griffon, the Griffon Bruxellois, the rough-coated variety with the whiskers and beard, and the smooth-coated Petit Brabancon.
The rough coated Griffon requires regular grooming with a brush and comb. Twice a year it will need its coat either hand stripped (for showing) or perhaps clipped if it is a pet. Smooth-coated Griffons do not need the same coat care as do the Roughs, so if you are taken with the Griffon character, but feel you could not manage the longer coat, then a Smooth is the right dog for you. Be careful about using flea collars on your Griffon and always air them out well before putting them on your dog. For mealtimes a good small-sized portion of dry food mixed with canned food is ideal. Griffons will take just about as much exercise as most owners are willing to give, but are also content to be couch potatoes.
Potential breeders should be aware that rearing Griffon puppies is often not easy – but once they reach six weeks of age they develop into tough little dogs with few problems.
Decision time
Ideal owners
A Griffon is a very adaptable little dog that will fit very well into considerate families with young children, as well as being the ideal companion for older people.
Decision time (resources provided by Kennel Club):
Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:
What do I need to consider when thinking of buying a puppy?
How do I find the right breeder, what should I ask them?
How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy?
Where to find dogs (resources provided by the Kennel Club):
Breeders
Adoption
Shelters
Find out about important information about purchasing dogs from pet shops and traders