Griffs are active indoors and enjoy bursts of play but don’t require tons of exercise. A few short walks and some quality time are enough to keep them content.
They’re smart and eager to connect, but their sensitive nature means harsh corrections can backfire. Use positive reinforcement and keep it light and fun—drama queens don’t like being scolded.
Generally good with older, gentle kids. Their small size makes them vulnerable, and they won’t tolerate rough play. Best in homes where children understand boundaries.
Griffs come in smooth or rough coat types. The rough coat needs regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping, while the smooth coat is lower maintenance. Both shed minimally.
Vocal and alert—Griffs love to comment on everything. They’ll let you know when someone’s coming, when they’re bored, and when you’re being boring.
No—though low-shedding, they’re not considered hypoallergenic.
The Brussels Griffon is a small companion breed originally developed in Belgium. Bred to hunt rats in stables, it later gained popularity as a lively and affectionate household pet. Despite its size, the breed is known for its confident personality and expressive, human-like face.
Brussels Griffons are alert, spirited, and social. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and often seek close companionship. Their compact size and adaptable nature make them well-suited to urban living, including apartments and smaller homes.
There are several coat varieties within the breed, including rough and smooth types, each contributing to its distinctive look. Over time, the Brussels Griffon has earned a reputation as both a charming companion and a breed with unmistakable character.
Living with a Brussels Griffon is like rooming with a tiny, highly trained method actor—equal parts scene-stealer and soul mate. They don’t just follow you from room to room—they feel what you feel, anticipate your mood, and emote like a tiny, bearded empath. With their big eyes and bigger personalities, Griffs are sensitive, emotionally complex dogs who want nothing more than to be where you are, doing whatever you’re doing… or judging you from a velvet pillow.
They’re playful, dramatic, and often hilarious, but underneath the comedy is a deep attachment. These dogs bond hard and don’t do well with distance—emotional or physical. If you ignore them or treat them like a background pet, they will let you know—with a stare, a sulk, or a full-on existential crisis.
Owning a Griffon means welcoming a tiny companion who wants in on your life—your routines, your rest, your emotional landscape. They’re not for the detached or overly busy, but for someone who wants a dog that truly connects? They’re magic.
I’m your Griff—tiny, charming, and definitely judging your outfit. I’m part philosopher, part shadow, and fully committed once you’ve earned my affection. I may look like a little gremlin, but I love deeply, snuggle hard, and keep close tabs on your every move. I’m not here for chaos—I want connection, consistency, and someone who doesn’t mind being stared at soulfully for hours. If you like your dogs with opinions, facial expressions, and a fierce little heart, I’m already perched on the back of your couch, watching you lovingly—and critically.
need much space, but they do need presence. These dogs form intense bonds and do poorly in homes where they’re left alone for long stretches.
If you work from home, have a flexible schedule, or simply love the idea of a furry shadow with a judgey little face, a Griff will thrive by your side. Quiet spaces with consistent routines suit them best. They’re not just dogs—they’re companions, and they expect to be treated as such.
• Needs constant company
• May bark excessively
• Fragile around rough kids
• Needs gentle training
• House training can be a project
• Soft harness for walks
• Interactive toys
• Enzyme cleaner (for potty oops)
• Soft blankets and cozy beds
• Training treats (lots)
Brussels Griffons are generally sturdy for their size, but like many toy breeds, they have some specific health risks:
• Brachycephalic syndrome (due to their short muzzle)
• Eye injuries or conditions (from prominent, expressive eyes)
• Patellar luxation
• Syringomyelia (neurological condition)
• Dental crowding and gum disease
Gentle handling and proactive care are key to keeping them thriving.
Griffs come in two fabulous coat types, each with its own grooming vibe:
• Smooth coat: short, glossy, and easy to maintain
• Rough coat: dense and wiry, with a distinct “beard”
• Common colors: red, black, black & tan, belge (black and reddish mix)
• Rough-coated Griffs need regular brushing and occasional stripping
• Smooth-coated Griffs benefit from weekly brushing to control shedding
Whichever coat they wear, it’s part of their expressive charm.
Griffs are small but spirited—so feeding should support both their metabolism and their quirks:
• Choose a high-quality small-breed formula with dental support
• Feed measured meals twice a day to avoid blood sugar dips
• Avoid table scraps—sensitive stomachs and picky palates don’t mix
• Consider omega-3 supplements for skin and coat health
• Monitor weight closely; even a few extra ounces matter on a toy frame
Think haute cuisine—tiny, balanced, and thoughtfully portioned.
Brussels Griffons thrive when their care matches their sensitivity—both physical and emotional:
• Use a harness, not a collar, to protect their delicate trachea
• Schedule regular dental cleanings—tiny teeth need big attention
• Wipe eyes daily and keep face hair trimmed for hygiene
• Watch for respiratory issues in hot or humid climates
• Provide soft bedding, gentle handling, and emotional consistency
Treat them like the tiny royalty they believe they are—and they’ll reign happily at your side.
The Brussels Griffon isn’t for everyone—but for the right person, they’re unforgettable. This is a dog with theatrical flair, a devoted heart, and a deep need to be close, seen, and emotionally understood. They thrive with attentive owners who enjoy constant companionship and don’t mind a little drama with their devotion. Living with a Griff is like having a tiny, bearded eccentric who insists on center stage and loves you with full-body sincerity. If you’re ready for a relationship—not just a pet—you’ll find a fiercely loyal best friend in a very small, very opinionated package.
