Belgian Griffon
Belgický grifonek
Key facts
| FCI group | 9. Companion and Toy Dogs |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Belgium |
| Weight | 3.5–6 kg |
Recognition features
- Harsh, slightly wavy, trimmed coat with beard and moustache
- Black or black-and-tan colouring (the Brussels Griffon is red)
- Almost human facial expression
Purpose
A small guardian and companion dog, originally bred to guard carriages and keep stables free of rodents.
History
The Griffon Bruxellois, Griffon Belge and Petit Brabançon all descend from a small rough-coated dog called the Smousje, found in the Brussels area for centuries. In the 19th century the blood of the Ruby King Charles Spaniel and the Pug brought in the short black coat and fixed the current type. By about 1900 they had become very popular, thanks in part to the interest of Queen Marie-Henriette of Belgium.
Coat
Harsh, naturally stiff, slightly wavy (not curly) coat with undercoat, trimmed; thick beard and moustache around the muzzle and eyebrows above the eyes. Black or black and tan (tan on the legs, chest, cheeks, above the eyes, inside the ears and under the tail); an admixture of red-brown is allowed, though pure black and black and tan are preferred.
Similar breeds
- Brussels Griffon · Compare
- Petit Brabançon · Compare
- Affenpinscher · Compare
- Miniature Schnauzer · Compare
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
In the Dogtice quiz you practise breeds on photos and see the differences between look-alike breeds.
The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.