How to Care for a Brussels Griffon

You may know the Brussels Griffon as an energetic, toy dog that will stare up at you quizzically as if to say, "Huh?"..."Do what?" You may also know that aside from the funny expression and playful antics, the "BG" is a relatively healthy breed with a long life expectancy. The following are ways to care for your Brussels Griffon so that he or she will hopefully live to a ripe old age.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Spay or Neuter your Brussels Griffon. Spaying females before the first heat prevents breast cancer and decreases the likelihood of uterine infections. Neutering males before the age of four prevents testicular cancer, helps maintain a healthy prostate and curbs aggression.

2. Take your Griffon for regular medical checkups, and be sure to include eye exams, because the breed is prone to certain hereditary eye disorders. Stay current on vaccinations, flea and heartworm preventative. You can also do a monthly home exam of the skin, eyes, ears, nose, teeth and gums.

3. Have your BG's teeth cleaned professionally. Check with your vet as to what would be a good schedule.

4. Feed your Brussels Griffon a quality dog food with meat as the first ingredient. If feeding a homemade diet, be sure to include the proper balance of protein, carbs, fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. These dogs can be picky eaters, so you may have to do some experimenting.

5. Make sure your Griffon gets enough exercise. Although they are active indoors and will get a good amount of exercise on their own (even in an apartment), they should still be taken for daily walks. They enjoy playing outside, but should live indoors.

6. Bathe your Brussels Griffon when necessary. Clean the ears with a cotton ball and ear cleaning solution for dogs. Keep the nails trimmed short.

7. Rough Coat Griffon

   The Brussels Griffon has either a smooth coat or a rough coat. The smooth-coated variety only needs to be brushed occasionally and more frequently during shedding season. The rough coat should be combed and brushed more frequently (at least once a week). The rough-coated Griffon should also visit a groomer about every three months for clipping and trimming or hand stripping of the dead hair.

Tips & Warnings

• The Brussels Griffon likes to be with his guardian and makes a great companion.

• Griffons are friendly and outgoing, however may be reserved around new people. They will bark a lot when there's someone at the door, but are not aggressive.

• Although the breed tends to get along with other dogs and cats, they are not always aware of their small size and may try to dominate a larger dog.

• Griffons can be stubborn. They require consistent, yet sensitive training. They are also smart and can learn tricks.

• Always supervise these dogs when they are around children. They can be hurt easily due to their small size, therefore are safer in households with older children. They can also be possessive of toys and food.

• Protect your Griffon from overheating in hot and humid weather. Like other flat-faced, snub nose breeds, they are more prone to heatstroke and respiratory problems.

• The breed may be prone to a weak bladder and certain eye disorders including cataracts and glaucoma. Being a small breed, the BG is more prone to luxating patella (slipped kneecaps).

• Be leery of Griffons that are sold over the internet. They may be from puppy mills. Make sure it's a reputable and humane breeder or rescue. It's best to visit in person or at least be absolutely sure where the dog came from.

Resources

• National Brussels Griffon Club
• National Brussels Griffon Rescue