Griffon Bruxellois

AffectionateAlertPeople-orientedSpiritedWary of strangers

The Griffon Bruxellois is a small, expressive companion dog with a human-like face and a big personality. Most are devoted to their people and happiest close by, often following their owner from room to room. They tend to be alert and vocal, so they make good watchdogs, though they can be wary of strangers until they warm up. With respectful children who understand how to handle a small dog they are gentle, and they usually get along with other pets when raised with them.

Day to day, they need a few short walks and daily play, plus time indoors with company, since they do not handle long periods alone well. Early and consistent training helps with barking and manners. Their flat face means they can be sensitive to heat, so they do best in a climate-controlled home.

Good for: Devoted owners in homes with company, apartments, or first-time owners

Size	small
Weight	9–13 lb
Exercise	about 40 min a day
Shedding	low
Origin	Belgium

Before you choose a Griffon Bruxellois

They bond closely and can struggle when left alone for long stretches, so plan for company during the day.

Living with a Griffon Bruxellois

Exercise

Two short walks a day plus indoor play is usually enough. They enjoy games that engage their mind, and they should not be overexerted in heat.

Grooming

The wiry, dense coat needs brushing a few times a week and occasional hand-stripping or trimming. They shed lightly, and the beard and face need wiping to keep them clean.

Health

Griffon Bruxellois can be prone to breathing problems linked to their short skull, eye conditions, and syringomyelia. Ask your vet about screening and what to watch for, especially when choosing a breeder.

Brachycephalic airway syndrome
Syringomyelia
Eye conditions

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Griffon Bruxellois

Feeding, adult

1–1.25 cups a day

About 374 kcal, roughly 7 lb of dry food a month at 9–13 lb. Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$1,200–$2,100

Food about $275, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 40°F. Small dogs lose heat fast: a coat below about 40°F, and keep walks short in the cold.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do Griffon Bruxellois shed a lot?

They shed lightly thanks to their wiry coat. Regular brushing and occasional trimming keep loose hair under control, and they are a reasonable choice for many allergy-conscious homes.

Can a Griffon Bruxellois live in an apartment?

Yes, they adapt well to apartments because of their small size. They still need daily walks and indoor play, and they do best when someone is home for much of the day.

Are Griffon Bruxellois good with kids?

They can be good with respectful children who know how to handle a small dog gently. Supervise young kids closely, since these dogs can be sensitive to rough play.