What is a Griffon?

The Griffon Bruxellois is known to have a huge heart, and a strong desire to snuggle and be with his or her master. They display a visible air of self-importance. A Griffon should not be shy or aggressive; however, they are very emotionally sensitive, and because of this, should be socialized carefully at a young age. Griffons should also be alert, inquisitive and interested in their surroundings.

Griffons tend to get along well with other animals in the house, including cats, ferrets, and other dogs. However, they can get into trouble because they have no concept of their own relative size and may attempt to dominate dogs much larger than themselves.

Some say: "Having a Griffon means having a true constant companion. They need their favorite person all the time, and will be very unhappy if left outdoors or alone most of the day. A Griffon Bruxellois will want to follow you about the house, on your errands, and to bed."

The Griffon is an intelligent cheerful dog with a terrier-like disposition. With lots of personality, they make a fine companion dog. It is affectionate, willful and high-strung, but charming. Lively and curious, they love everyone, but can get quite moody. Unusually sensitive and quite demanding, this breed loves to be spoiled. It must be raised in the house with the family.  These dogs may be gluttonous or picky eaters and may be difficult to housebreak. They make good watchdogs and can be taught to perform tricks. Griffons like to bark. They do best with older considerate children. They have an almost human facial expression which has earned them the nickname "monkey face".

Appearance

All three breeds are generally small, with a flat face, prominent chin, and large wide-set eyes that give the Griffon an almost human expression. They are sometimes compared to an Ewok from the movie Star Wars. All three breeds are sturdy toy dogs with thick-set, well-balanced bodies, giving a squared appearance in proportion when viewed from the side. A proper Griffon should be muscular, compact, and well-boned, and should not seem delicate, racy, or overly cobby.

There are three distinct color types recognized for the breed. The actual color of each dog can vary depending on how they are groomed. If the hair is cut or clippers are used the color of dog will be considerably lighter than is expected by breed standards. The three color types are as follows:
 
  • Griffon Bruxellois: Red or reddish-brown; black allowed on muzzle.
  • Griffon Belge: Black, Black and tan (a black and tan pattern with emphasis on a rich red shade), Black and red (black mixed evenly with reddish-brown hairs). Black and red may have a black face mask.
  • Petit Brabançon: All colours allowed for the other standards. Until recently, black short may have been a fault, but it is now allowed in all standards. A black mask is expected on the red or reddish brown coat. Grey hair from age is not penalized.