Brussels Griffon: The Charming and Affectionate Companion
The Brussels Griffon is a small companion breed known for its expressive face, lively personality, and strong attachment to its family. Originally developed in Belgium to hunt rats in stables and later refined as a companion dog, the Brussels Griffon combines alert intelligence and terrier-like confidence with an affectionate and often comical temperament. These sensitive and people-oriented dogs thrive on close companionship and do best with owners who can provide regular interaction, gentle training, and a stable home environment where they are included in daily activities. Brussels Griffons are typically curious, playful, and highly devoted to their people, although they can be somewhat reserved with strangers and may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. With their distinctive appearance, entertaining personality, and loving nature, the Brussels Griffon is an excellent choice for individuals or families seeking a small companion dog with plenty of character and charm.
⭐ 3 Things You May Not Know About the Brussels Griffon
- The Brussels Griffon was originally bred in Belgium to catch rats in stables and horse barns.
- The breed became especially popular among European nobility during the late 19th century after Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium took interest in them.
- Brussels Griffons are famous for their almost human-like facial expressions and expressive eyes.
Overview
- AKC Height: 7–10 inches
- AKC Weight: 8–10 pounds
- Colors: Red, Belge, Black and Tan, or Black
- Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
- Group: Toy Group
🐾 Quick Facts About the Brussels Griffon
- Energy Level: Moderate — Brussels Griffons enjoy walks, playtime, and family interaction but are generally adaptable indoors.
- Grooming Needs: Moderate to High — Rough-coated varieties require regular grooming and hand-stripping, while smooth coats are easier to maintain.
- Good With Kids: Yes, with gentle handling — Brussels Griffons are affectionate companions but often prefer calmer interactions.
- Trainability: High — Intelligent and eager to please, they respond very well to positive reinforcement training.
- Barking Level: Moderate — Brussels Griffons may bark to alert their family or express excitement.
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History & Origin
The Brussels Griffon originated in Belgium during the 1800s, where it was developed from small rough-coated terrier-type dogs used for controlling rats and mice in stables and carriage houses. Early Belgian stable workers valued these tiny but fearless dogs for their intelligence, alertness, and determination while hunting vermin around horses and urban areas. Over time, breeders refined these practical little dogs into affectionate companion animals while preserving their lively personality and distinctive appearance.
The breed is believed to have been developed through crosses involving the Affenpinscher, Pug, English Toy Spaniel, and local Belgian stable dogs known as Smousje. These crosses helped create the Brussels Griffon’s unique combination of expressive facial features, compact build, and affectionate temperament. The breed gradually became popular among Belgian nobility and wealthy families, who admired its charming personality and almost human-like expression.
Unlike many toy breeds developed solely for companionship, the Brussels Griffon retained much of the confidence, curiosity, and boldness inherited from its terrier ancestors. Even after becoming fashionable among aristocrats and city dwellers, the breed continued to display strong alertness and an entertaining, spirited personality that made it a favorite household companion.
The breed’s popularity spread internationally during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, although its numbers declined during both World Wars. Dedicated breeders later worked to preserve and restore the breed while maintaining its distinctive appearance and affectionate temperament.
Modern Brussels Griffons still display many traits shaped by their early history as stable dogs and companions. Their intelligence, curiosity, sensitivity, and strong attachment to people reflect generations of close interaction with humans. Beneath the breed’s small size and expressive face remains a confident and entertaining little dog with deep roots in Belgian history and urban life.
Breed Traits & Personality
The Brussels Griffon is a small companion breed known for its expressive almost human-like face, compact body, large eyes, and charming personality. Originally developed in Belgium as a stable dog used for catching rats and later refined as a companion breed, the Brussels Griffon combines intelligence, alertness, and affectionate companionship in a tiny but sturdy body full of personality.
This breed has a compact, squarely built frame with moderate bone structure, a broad chest, and balanced proportions that contribute to a sturdy and confident appearance despite its small size. The Brussels Griffon should appear solid and well-balanced rather than delicate or fragile.
One of the breed’s most recognizable features is its highly expressive face. The head is large relative to body size with a short muzzle, prominent forehead, dark round eyes, and an alert almost human-like expression that gives the breed tremendous character and emotional appeal.
The breed may have either a rough coat or smooth coat variety. The rough-coated Brussels Griffon has a wiry textured coat with distinct facial furnishings including a beard and mustache that contribute greatly to its famous expression. The smooth-coated variety, often called the Petit Brabançon, has a short glossy coat with the same expressive facial structure but without the longer furnishings.
Coat colors commonly include red, belge, black, or black and tan combinations. Their naturally short nose and brachycephalic facial structure contribute to the breed’s distinctive appearance but may also create increased sensitivity to heat or respiratory stress.
The Brussels Griffon moves with lively, confident, and energetic gait that reflects alertness and self-assurance. Despite its tiny size, the breed often carries itself with surprising confidence and dignity.
Overall, the Brussels Griffon projects charm, intelligence, emotional expressiveness, and compact companion-dog character beneath its unforgettable face and sturdy little frame.
For a broader comparison of how this breed’s size compares to others, see our Dog Size & Weight Guide.
Temperament & Personality
The Brussels Griffon is known for being affectionate, intelligent, sensitive, and extremely people-oriented. This breed forms exceptionally strong emotional bonds with its family and often becomes deeply attached to one or two primary people.
With family members, the breed is usually loving, emotionally expressive, and highly devoted. Many Brussels Griffons prefer remaining physically close to their owners throughout the day and thrive on companionship and interaction.
One of the breed’s defining personality traits is its remarkable emotional awareness and expressiveness. Brussels Griffons are often described as almost human-like in their facial expressions, reactions, and ability to communicate emotion through behavior and eye contact.
The breed is intelligent and highly observant, frequently paying close attention to household routines, moods, and environmental changes. Many Griffons become deeply emotionally connected and sensitive to the atmosphere around them.
Although affectionate and entertaining, Brussels Griffons are generally not carefree or overly independent dogs. They often prefer constant companionship and may become prone to separation anxiety if left alone too frequently or for long periods.
The breed is usually alert and curious without being excessively aggressive. Properly socialized individuals are generally friendly but may initially appear somewhat reserved or cautious around strangers.
Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons often possess bold and confident personalities. Many seem unaware of their tiny stature and display surprising courage, determination, and emotional intensity.
Because the breed is emotionally sensitive, calm handling and positive interaction are especially important. Harsh correction or chaotic environments may contribute to anxiety, nervousness, or withdrawn behavior.
The Brussels Griffon generally thrives best in homes where companionship and close interaction are consistently available. Many do particularly well with owners seeking an emotionally connected companion dog rather than a highly independent pet.
In the right home, the Brussels Griffon becomes an extraordinarily affectionate, entertaining, and deeply devoted companion with unique personality and emotional warmth.
For a broader overview of personality differences between breed groups, visit our Dog Breed Temperament Guide
Exercise & Training Needs
The Brussels Griffon is a moderately active small breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and emotionally balanced. Although tiny in size, the breed is intelligent, alert, and emotionally engaged with its environment.
Daily walks, indoor play sessions, interactive games, and mentally stimulating activities are important for maintaining both physical and emotional well-being. Many Brussels Griffons enjoy puzzle toys, trick training, obedience games, and interactive family play.
Training is generally rewarding because the breed is intelligent and highly attentive to people. Positive reinforcement methods using praise, treats, encouragement, and gentle consistency usually produce excellent results.
Because Brussels Griffons are emotionally sensitive, harsh correction or forceful handling may create anxiety or reduced confidence. Short upbeat training sessions help maintain enthusiasm and emotional security.
Mental stimulation is especially important because the breed is naturally observant and curious. Puzzle toys, varied routines, and interactive activities help prevent boredom and support emotional fulfillment.
Early socialization is extremely important to encourage confidence and adaptability around different people, sounds, environments, and experiences. Puppies should receive controlled positive exposure during development to help reduce nervousness or excessive sensitivity later in life.
Because of the breed’s brachycephalic facial structure, owners should monitor carefully during hot or humid weather. Brussels Griffons may become overheated more easily than longer-muzzled breeds and should avoid excessive physical exertion in high temperatures.
The breed generally adapts very well to apartment living and smaller homes when companionship and moderate activity needs are consistently met. Brussels Griffons are often happiest in environments where owners spend substantial time interacting closely with them.
For people seeking an affectionate, intelligent, and emotionally connected companion breed with remarkable personality, the Brussels Griffon can become an exceptionally rewarding family member.
Learn more on our Dog Training Page.
Grooming Requirements
Grooming requirements for the Brussels Griffon vary depending on coat type, although both varieties require regular maintenance to maintain healthy skin and coat condition.
The rough-coated Brussels Griffon has a wiry textured coat that requires regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain proper texture and appearance. Frequent brushing helps prevent tangles and removes loose hair, particularly around the facial furnishings.
The smooth-coated variety has a short glossy coat that is easier to maintain and generally requires only weekly brushing to remove loose hair and maintain healthy coat shine.
Both coat types shed moderately, although the rough coat often traps more loose hair within the coat itself. Regular grooming helps control shedding and maintain skin health.
The breed’s facial area requires routine cleaning because food, moisture, and debris may collect around the beard, nose, or facial folds, especially in rough-coated dogs. Gentle cleaning helps reduce irritation and maintain hygiene.
Routine grooming should also include nail trimming, dental care, ear cleaning, and inspection of the prominent eyes for irritation or discharge. Because Brussels Griffons have large exposed eyes, they may be somewhat more susceptible to environmental irritation or injury.
Bathing is generally needed periodically to maintain coat cleanliness and skin health. Overbathing should be avoided because it may dry the skin or soften the harsh coat texture in rough-coated individuals.
Because the breed is relatively small and often spends significant time indoors, regular grooming also provides valuable opportunities to monitor skin condition, weight, and overall health.
With proper grooming and routine care, the Brussels Griffon maintains its distinctive expressive appearance, healthy coat condition, and charming companion-dog elegance while remaining comfortable and well cared for throughout its life.
Learn more on our Dog Grooming Page.
Health Overview & Testing
The Brussels Griffon is a small, intelligent, and highly expressive companion breed known for its almost human-like facial expressions, affectionate personality, and strong attachment to its family. Originally developed in Belgium as a stable ratter before evolving into a beloved companion dog, the Brussels Griffon is generally considered a lively and long-lived breed, but like many toy and brachycephalic dogs, it can still be prone to certain inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Brussels Griffon health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines a compact body structure, prominent eyes, shortened muzzle, and fine bone, maintaining healthy breathing, eye condition, joint stability, dental health, and overall body condition is especially important throughout the dog’s life.
Health issues sometimes seen in Brussels Griffons may include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), patellar luxation, syringomyelia, hydrocephalus, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), dental disease, heart murmurs, and obesity-related joint stress. Some individuals may also develop spinal sensitivity, heat intolerance, or eye injuries due to the breed’s large prominent eyes and shortened facial structure. Because Brussels Griffons often have crowded teeth and small jaw structure, dental disease can become a significant concern if preventive care is neglected. While not every Brussels Griffon will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, grooming, nutrition, exercise, and preventive veterinary care.
Health Testing & Responsible Breeding
Responsible Brussels Griffon breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Brussels Griffon, careful attention to orthopedic, neurological, airway, eye, and overall structural health is especially valuable.
Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed patella evaluations and ophthalmologist-performed eye examinations. Responsible breeders may also discuss breathing quality, neurological health, spinal concerns, cardiac wellness, and overall longevity within their bloodlines. Some breeders may additionally monitor for hereditary neurological disorders or utilize genetic testing for inherited eye conditions when appropriate depending on pedigree history.
At this time, Brussels Griffon breeder health testing relies primarily on veterinary evaluations, orthopedic screening, eye certification, airway assessment, and long-term pedigree knowledge rather than a large number of widely used breed-specific DNA panels. However, responsible breeders should still be willing to openly discuss inherited health concerns within their breeding program and explain the purpose of any testing they perform. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Brussels Griffon involves much more than maintaining appearance or personality — it also includes protecting healthy breathing, stable temperament, neurological wellness, and long-term quality of life.
Before Brussels Griffon puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, airway quality, eyes, knees, bite alignment, neurological responses, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because toy and brachycephalic breeds may develop breathing or orthopedic concerns early in life, careful monitoring during growth is especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, grooming recommendations, and instructions for safe socialization and training during development.
A responsible Brussels Griffon breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.
Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness
Maintaining healthy body condition is especially important for the Brussels Griffon because excess weight places additional strain on the airway, spine, joints, and cardiovascular system. Although naturally playful and energetic, Brussels Griffons should remain lean and properly conditioned rather than overweight. Balanced nutrition, portion control, and regular moderate exercise all help support long-term wellness and mobility.
Because the Brussels Griffon is a brachycephalic breed with a shortened muzzle, owners should monitor carefully for signs of breathing difficulty, overheating, noisy breathing, snoring, or exercise intolerance. Hot and humid weather may place additional stress on the breed’s airway and respiratory system.
The breed’s large prominent eyes require routine monitoring because Brussels Griffons may be more vulnerable to scratches, ulcers, irritation, dryness, or injury than many other breeds. Owners should seek prompt veterinary attention if redness, squinting, excessive tearing, or eye discomfort develops.
Dental care is also extremely important because toy breeds with compact jaw structure are often prone to tartar buildup, gum disease, retained baby teeth, and dental crowding. Routine brushing, professional dental evaluations, and early oral care can help reduce long-term discomfort and disease.
Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring neurological wellness, breathing comfort, eye condition, mobility, dental health, and overall quality of life. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved outcomes.
Lifespan & Senior Brussels Griffon Care
The Brussels Griffon often lives approximately 12 to 15 years or longer when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Brussels Griffons may gradually develop arthritis, hearing decline, vision changes, dental disease, reduced stamina, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more prone to breathing difficulties or neurological concerns during the senior years.
As Brussels Griffons enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, supportive bedding, regular dental care, eye monitoring, and routine wellness evaluations. Because the breed often remains emotionally connected and highly interactive throughout life, continued companionship and gentle mental stimulation remain especially important even during old age.
With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Brussels Griffons continue to thrive as affectionate, entertaining, and deeply devoted companions throughout their lives.
Is This Breed Right for You?
The Brussels Griffon is an affectionate, intelligent, and highly people-oriented companion breed known for its expressive face, playful personality, and strong attachment to its family. Originally bred primarily as a companion dog, the Brussels Griffon thrives on companionship, interaction, and close emotional connection with its people.
While loving and entertaining, the Brussels Griffon is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:
✔ Ideal for:
- People seeking a highly affectionate and interactive companion dog
- Owners able to provide companionship and regular interaction
- Families wanting a playful and expressive toy breed
- Homes willing to monitor breathing and eye health carefully
- People looking for a small dog suited to apartment or house living
❌ Not Ideal for:
- People unprepared for potential breathing or dental-care needs
- Homes where the dog will frequently be left alone for long periods
- Owners seeking a highly independent breed
- People unwilling to monitor eye health and heat sensitivity carefully
- Homes with rough handling or very young unsupervised children
Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue
If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.
Find a Reliable Rescue:
Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.
Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.
Find a Responsible Breeder:
Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.
Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.
Puppy Considerations
Brussels Griffon puppies are curious, playful, and highly people-oriented from an early age. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are important to help puppies develop confidence, emotional stability, and good manners.
Because these puppies often form very strong emotional attachments to their families, early independence training and positive social exposure are especially important to help reduce separation-related anxiety behaviors later in life.
Puppies benefit from:
- Early socialization with people, dogs, sounds, and environments
- Positive reinforcement training and gentle guidance
- Moderate exercise appropriate for toy-breed development
- Regular handling for grooming, eye care, and veterinary visits
- Mentally stimulating activities and supervised interactive play
Because Brussels Griffon puppies are physically delicate and emotionally sensitive, patient training and calm handling are important for supporting balanced long-term behavior.
Living With a Brussels Griffon
Living with a Brussels Griffon is often rewarding for owners who appreciate affectionate, entertaining, and emotionally connected companion dogs. These dogs generally form extremely strong bonds with their families and often prefer staying close to their people throughout the day.
The Brussels Griffon typically requires moderate daily exercise and enjoys walks, indoor play, training sessions, and social interaction. Although playful and energetic, the breed’s breathing limitations may require activity adjustments during hot weather or strenuous exercise.
This breed generally does best in homes where it receives companionship, structure, and consistent interaction. Without enough social engagement, some individuals may become anxious, vocal, or emotionally distressed.
Although affectionate and loving with family members, Brussels Griffons may sometimes be reserved around strangers or highly sensitive to rough handling. Proper socialization remains important for helping the breed develop into a confident and stable adult.
Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting breathing comfort, mobility, dental wellness, and overall quality of life. Routine veterinary care, exercise, grooming, training, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.
Final Thoughts…
The Brussels Griffon is an affectionate, intelligent, and deeply devoted companion breed that thrives with owners who appreciate close emotional connection and interactive companionship. Their expressive personality, playful nature, and strong loyalty make them unforgettable companions in the right homes.
With proper preventive care, socialization, training, exercise management, and companionship, the Brussels Griffon can become a deeply rewarding and highly devoted lifelong companion.
Are you considering adding a Brussels Griffon to your family?
This cute Brussels Griffon looks like he is begging for a treat.
Brussels Griffon FAQs
Are Brussels Griffons good family dogs?
Brussels Griffons can make wonderful companions for the right family. They are affectionate, loyal, and deeply devoted to their people. However, their sensitive nature and small size often make them better suited to homes with gentle older children rather than very young, rough-handling kids.
Do Brussels Griffons bark a lot?
Brussels Griffons tend to be alert little dogs and may bark to announce visitors, unusual sounds, or changes in their environment. Proper training and socialization can help prevent excessive barking, but they are naturally attentive watchdogs.
Are Brussels Griffons easy to train?
Brussels Griffons are intelligent and eager to bond with their owners, but they can also have a stubborn streak. Positive reinforcement, patience, and short, engaging training sessions typically work best with this sensitive breed.
Do Brussels Griffons shed?
Shedding depends on coat type. Smooth-coated Brussels Griffons generally shed more than the rough-coated variety. Rough-coated Brussels Griffons shed less but require regular grooming and hand-stripping or trimming to maintain their distinctive appearance.
Can Brussels Griffons be left alone?
Brussels Griffons form very strong attachments to their families and often dislike being left alone for long periods. Some individuals may develop separation anxiety if they are frequently isolated. They typically do best in homes where someone is around much of the day or where alone-time training is introduced gradually.
Similar Breeds You Might Like
If you love the quirky charm of the Brussels Griffon, you might also enjoy learning about these similarly sized and spirited breeds:
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The Affenpinscher shares a similar “monkey-like” expression and bold personality, making it a natural companion breed.
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The Miniature Schnauzer is slightly larger but equally intelligent, lively, and known for its expressive eyebrows and beard.
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The Yorkshire Terrier packs a feisty attitude into a petite frame and thrives in similar indoor environments.
- For a broader look at dogs that tend to shed less, visit our Low-Shedding Dog Breeds guide.
🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Brussels Griffon
As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.
If you have a Brussels Griffon or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.
🛏️ 1. Dog Beds
👉 My Tip: Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)
One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.
For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.
I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.
* Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.
* Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.
* Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.
✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Brussels Griffon Coat
Brussels Griffons can have either a rough, wiry coat or a smooth coat, so grooming needs vary slightly depending on coat type.
For rough-coated Brussels Griffons, a gentle slicker brush works well to remove loose hair and prevent tangles, while a metal comb helps keep the beard, face, and legs neat. Occasional hand-stripping is often recommended to maintain the proper coat texture.
Smooth-coated Brussels Griffons are easier to maintain and do well with a soft brush or rubber grooming brush to remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny.
Regular brushing:
- Helps remove loose hair
- Maintains coat texture
- Keeps the coat healthy
🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)
- Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.
- Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.
- Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.
👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels
I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.
It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.
🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation
Brussels Griffon are inquisitive, so giving them something to do is important.
An enrichment toy can help:
- Prevent boredom
- Reduce unwanted behaviors
- Keep their mind engaged
When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.
🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash
From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.
Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.
Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.
Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.
👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes
I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.
💡 Lisa’s Tip:
You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.
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