Page 268 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | COMPANION DOGS

Brussels Griffon

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Black and tan
SMOOTH-HAIRED
9–11in 7–11lb Over 12 years Black (PETIT BRABANÇON)
(23–28cm) (3–5kg)

This lively, well balanced dog with a terrierlike disposition FROM STABLE TO ROYAL PET
adapts well to city life but remains rare outside Europe
The Brussels Griffon is descended from the
This little dog originated in Belgium, today, although these dogs have featured little rough-haired dogs that were often seen in
Brussels streets and known as “little street urchins.”
where it was kept as a stable dog. This in major movies such as As Good As It Gets
The dogs were favorites with the city’s hansom
dog was related to the Affenpinscher (see and Gosford Park.
cab drivers, who kept them in the stables for
p.218), from which it probably inherited its There is a smooth-haired variety known catching rats. During
“monkey face.” During the 19th century it as the Petit Brabançon, and a rough-haired the 19th century the
was crossed with the Pug (see p.268) and the variety with a distinctive beard. In some breed became popular
throughout society as a
Ruby English Toy Spaniel (see p.279), countries black rough-coated dogs are defined
companion dog. One of
the latter producing the reddish or black as Belgian Griffons, and all other colors of
the foremost supporters
and tan coloring seen in some dogs. rough-haired dog as Brussels Griffons. was Queen Marie Henriette
Despite its popularity in the late 19th Bold and confident but affectionate, of Belgium (right, with her
century, by 1945 the Brussels Griffon the breed is an entertaining companion, maid of honor), who
had almost disappeared in Belgium. It although it may be too sensitive for homes brought the breed to
international fame.
was only saved by breeders importing with small children. It enjoys a good walk
dogs from the UK. It is still uncommon and being pampered.

Round head with
High-set tail curves over upturned nose
back when active
Semierect, high-set
ears with shorter hair

Wiry coat

Smooth coat

Distinctive
bearded chin
Wide,
deep chest
Red

Compact,
square body
Rounded,
catlike feet

ROUGH-HAIRED SMOOTH-HAIRED
(BRUSSELS GRIFFON) (PETIT BRABANÇON)

266