The Brussels Griffon was bred in Belgium for ratting and owes its existence to a number of breeds, including the Affenpinscher, Pug, Ruby King Charles Spaniel and Yorkshire Terrier. Around the 18th Century, the Brussels Griffon became popular with royalty and a breed club was formed in England, which is still active today. “Griffon” means rough coated, “Bruxellois or Brussels” is where they came from. The smooth variety was given the name “Petite Brabacon”, little smooth coat. Once kept by cab drivers of 17th-century Brussels to rid their stables of vermin, the Brussels Griffon became a companion breed by virtue of its appealing character.

Appearance
The Brussels Griffon is small, robust, alert and intelligent. It is square, with a thickset body and an almost human expression. The Brussels Griffon comes in two coat types, rough and smooth, which are identical except for coat.

Character
The Brussels Griffon 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 Brussels Griffon should not be shy or aggressive; however, they are very emotionally sensitive. Because of this, they should be socialized carefully at a young age. Brussels Griffons should also be alert, inquisitive and interested in their surroundings.

Brussels Griffons tend to bond with one human more than others. This, along with their small size, may make them unsuitable as a family pet, especially for a family with very small children. Brussels 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.

Having a Brussels 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 Brussels Griffon will want to follow you about the house, on your errands, and to bed.
 

Temperament
The Brussels Griffon is a charming and clever dog and makes an excellent companion. A smart, cobby little dog who can be lively and alert, with the disposition of a terrier. The Brussels Griffons are robust, intelligent and easy to train, but can be determined. You need to earn their respect and work as a partnership, rather than trying to dominate them (or allowing them to dominate you). The Brussels Griffon has lots of personality, and attracts attention wherever he goes. He is very loyal to his owner.

Exercise/Training
The Brussels Griffon is an active breed, always on the lookout for action. He will enjoy a good walk, keeping up with you all the way. Some enjoy the challenge of agility training. Playing and obedience are very good types of mental exercise. 15 minutes obedience and playing with your Brussels Griffon will be more useful for the dogs exercise then an hour walk on the leash can provide.

Color
The coat of the Brussels Griffon is either 1) Red: reddish brown with a little black at the whiskers and chin allowable; 2) Belge: black and reddish brown mixed, usually with black mask and whiskers; 3) Black and Tan: black with uniform reddish brown markings, appearing under the chin, on the legs, above each eye, around the edges of the ears and around the vent; or 4) Black: solid black. Any white hairs are a serious fault, except for "frost" on the muzzle of a mature dog, which is natural. Disqualification - White spot or blaze any where on coat.

Grooming
The rough coat of the Brussels Griffon needs combing 2/3 times a week, plus shaping by stripping, and a complete strip out twice a year, although pets can be clipped. Grooming for the smooth coat of the Brussels Griffon is minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Toenails should be trimmed regularly. A good nutrition and regular brushing keeps the proper coat of the Brussels Griffon shine and the skin healthy. Bathing doesn’t harm the coat of the Brussels Griffon as long as you use a good quality shampoo that doesn't dry the skin and coat and is formulated for a canine coat. The ears of the Brussels Griffon should be kept clean and regularly inspected as well.

Any breed described as "good with children", the dog must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them. As with all dogs, they should never be left alone with young children.