The Origins and Breeds Behind the Brussels Griffon
The
Brussels Griffon is a charming and distinctive toy breed known for its expressive, almost human-like face and spirited personality. Despite its small size, the Brussels Griffon has a confident and curious nature that endears it to dog lovers around the world. But what exactly makes up this delightful little companion? Understanding the breed's origins reveals a fascinating blend of canine heritage.
The History of the Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon traces its origins to the early
19th century in Brussels, Belgium. The starting point was a small, rough-coated terrier-type dog called the
Griffon d’Ecurie—literally translated to "Stable Griffon"—commonly used to catch vermin in stables and coach houses. These dogs were spirited, determined, and small in stature, making them excellent ratters.
However, by the mid-1800s, breeders in Belgium began crossing the Griffon d’Ecurie with
Pugs and
English Toy Spaniels (King Charles Spaniels) to refine its appearance and create a more companionable temperament. These breed infusions led to the creation of the modern Brussels Griffon we know today.
Breeds That Make Up the Brussels Griffon
- Griffon d’Ecurie: The core ancestor of the Brussels Griffon, this wiry stable dog contributed the breed’s strong prey drive, overall sturdiness, and original rough coat.
- Pug: Introduced to produce a smoother coat and solid coloring, the Pug influence gave the Griffon a more compact body, wider head, and the characteristic short, pushed-in nose that defines its unique facial structure.
- English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel): This breed softened the Brussels Griffon’s temperament, introducing large, round, expressive eyes, a domed skull, and an affectionate, people-oriented nature. Traits like kinked tails and webbed toes seen in some Griffons today can also be traced back to this Spaniel influence.
The Impact of These Breeds
Each breed left a lasting mark on the Brussels Griffon, creating a dog that is not only visually unique but also behaviorally complex and endearing. Here's how their traits came together:
- Facial Features: The Pug and Toy Spaniel contribute to the Griffon's flat face, big eyes, and distinct expression—a blend that's often described as "almost human."
- Coat Types: The breed comes in two coat varieties—rough-coated (from the Griffon d’Ecurie) and smooth-coated, known as the Petit Brabançon (largely influenced by the Pug).
- Temperament: While the stable Griffon was tenacious and alert, adding the gentler, affectionate Pug and Toy Spaniel made the modern Griffon loving, loyal, and highly social.
Modern Characteristics
Today, Brussels Griffons are fun-loving lapdogs that maintain many of the traits bestowed upon them by their ancestor breeds:
- Size: 6–12 pounds, 7–11 inches tall
- Colors: Red, black, black and tan, and belge (a reddish-brown and black mix)
- Coat Types: Rough (wiry and dense) and Smooth (short and glossy)
Their unmistakable appearance, high emotional intelligence, and devotion to their humans make them ideal companions for those who understand their sensitive, quirky nature.
Conclusion
The Brussels Griffon is the result of strategic breeding between the
Griffon d’Ecurie,
Pug, and
English Toy Spaniel. This blend gave rise to a breed that is as unique in personality as it is in appearance. Whether you're drawn to their expressive eyes, comical demeanor, or loyal companionship, knowing the roots of the Brussels Griffon offers deeper appreciation for this tiny but influential breed.
