About the Breed
The earliest Griffons were bred by the artisans and cab drivers of Belgium in general and Brussels in particular. In 1886 the breed made its first show appearance although a dog called ‘Vom’ came to England in 1880. Better known in the United States as the Brussels Griffon, these toy dogs are thought to be descended from the Affenpinscher. Various subdivisions of the breed are recognised in Europe, based essentially on the colour of the coat. The Griffon Bruxellois is, by definition, pure red in Europe, whereas the Griffin Belge is black, or a combination of black and tan. The third form, produced by cross-breeding with the Pug is the Brabançon, distinguishable by virtue of its smooth, short coat. It is now one of the most charming and spirited of the toy breeds.
While even the most devoted admirer of these dogs would not claim that they were particularly attractive in appearance, they have much in their favour in terms of temperament. The Griffon Bruxellois is a responsive and affectionate breed, which is quite easy to train and settles well in fairly urbanized surroundings. They used to be kept as stable dogs bred for killing vermin, but soon progressed to riding on the seat at the front of horse-drawn cabs, net to the cabbie. Their appealing natures would doubtless have endeared them to passengers. The Griffon Bruxellois became known in Britain just before the turn of the century, and reached the United States for the first time soon afterwards. They are easy in terms of care, although the rough-coated varieties will need to be stripped about twice a year. This can be carried out easily in a grooming parlour.
Height 7 in (18 cm)
Weight most desired between 6 and 9 lb (2.7-4 kg)
Coat type/colour The coat of the ‘rough’ variety harsh and wiry with bearded foreface. Smooth variety (Petit Brabançon) has smooth, close coat. Colour red, black or black-and-tan. Head monkey-like; body compact; tail docked short.

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