Griffon Belge
Temperament:
The Belgian Dwarf Griffon is a small, shaggy and uncomplicated contemporary. His cheerful and good-natured character makes him the ideal family dog. He also gets along well with other four-legged friends. Thanks to his frugal and friendly nature, the little Belgian is also an ideal beginner dog.
Characteristics
Belgian Dwarf Griffons exist in three varieties recognized by the FCI. They differ in length and color of the coat. In the Brussels Griffon this is short and red. The Belgian Griffon has a black, rough coat. Smooth in different colors presents itself the hair of the Brabant Griffon. Typical for all three types is the balanced physique.
The body length is approximately equal to the height at the withers. This makes the dog appear relatively compact and square. He belongs to the companion dogs and has a short, rough coat. The large head with the tousled hair is one of the striking external features. Especially his almost human-looking facial expression is appreciated by his fans. The tail is set high up and he also likes to carry it stretched high.
The character traits of the Belgian Dwarf Griffon include his loyal and lovable nature. He seeks closeness to his human, is trusting and cuddly. The Belgian Dwarf Griffon is especially fond of boisterous play.
He is agile, docile and exuberant. Typical of the breed is also the pronounced curiosity. When walking together, you can expect him to follow every sound and movement with interest. Despite its liveliness, the Belgian Dwarf Griffon does not need so much exercise. For this reason, he is also suitable for keeping in the city apartment. He likes to play indoors as much as outdoors.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
The Belgian Dwarf Griffon has a relatively large skin surface. It ensures that it gives off a lot of heat. This leads to an increased fiber metabolism and an enormous energy requirement. Therefore, make sure to cover this with a balanced and healthy diet.
Since his stomach is rather small, he prefers to eat small meals several times a day. It makes sense to offer him special food for small dog breeds. This way you will provide him with all the important nutrients he needs. The special food is made in the ideal size for him to encourage him to chew. At the same time, this promotes the digestion of the Belgian Dwarf Griffon.
Griffon Belge Care
As uncomplicated as the character of the Belgian Dwarf Griffon, so is its care. Due to its short hair, brushing is rarely necessary. Dead hair can simply be removed with the hands. The exception is the bushy beard of the dog. Small branches, dirt and leaves get caught in it more often and it tends to become disheveled. Therefore, the beard should be combed and cleaned more often. Regular trimming with scissors is also recommended.
Despite its lively nature, the Griffon is easy to train. He forms a close bond with his human. With careful training, he is docile and obedient. He wants to please you, so he will do everything you ask him to do. Through his orientation to humans he takes
quickly perceive mood perceptions. If you are balanced, your dog will be happy and relaxed. Challenge him with different games and keep him busy - he loves that and really thrives on it.
Suitable accessories
Since the dwarf Griffon is very playful, you should acquire a selection of toys for him. Whether ball, bone or caves to crawl through - all this provides excitement and variety in the dog's everyday life. For the care of the beard, a good comb is also necessary, also a pair of scissors for trimming the too long beard fur should be available. Since he does not need much exercise, a simple leash is enough for daily walks.
Origin & History
The ancestors of the Belgian Dwarf Griffon are considered to be the so-called Smousjes. These small, rough-haired dogs were kept in Brussels and its surroundings for a long time. The dog breed was crossed with the Pug and ruby-colored King Charles Spaniels in the 19th century. This resulted in the current breed type. At that time, the four-legged dogs served mainly as mouse and rat catchers and guarded small carriages. The breed was first given the name "Belgian Griffon" ("griffon" is French and means "rough-haired") in 1883.
The Griffons were among the favorite dogs of the Belgian queen Marie-Henriette, which increased their notoriety. Only a few years later, the small, lovable Verbeiner reached real cult status. Their popularity extended beyond Belgium's borders and the breed was exported throughout Europe.
In Germany, they are not yet as well known as in other countries. However, due to their charming nature and uncomplicated keeping conditions, they are gaining more and more attention from dog lovers here as well. Belgian Dwarf Griffons are classified by the FCI as social and companion dogs. They belong to the section 3 of the small Belgian dog breeds without working test.
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