Brussels Griffon
Lively and affectionate, this small breed charms with a big personality and expressive face. Sensitive and loyal, Brussels Griffons thrive as devoted companions and alert watchdogs.
Breed Characteristics

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
24–28 cm (male)
22–26 cm (female)
WEIGHT
3.5–6 kg (male)
3–5.5 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Brussels Griffon: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Brussels Griffon isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Brussels Griffon's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
Brussels Griffons are affectionate, alert, and often display a lively, curious temperament. They form strong bonds with their families and can be sensitive to their environment.
Key Personality Traits
Affectionate and bonds closely with family members
Quick learner, responsive to training efforts
Moderate activity needs, enjoys regular exercise
Lively, enjoys interactive play and toys
Handles change fairly well, may be sensitive

Strengths
- Alert watchdog with keen senses
- Affectionate and bonds closely with owners
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Playful and entertaining companion
- Generally good with other pets
Challenges
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Sensitive to harsh corrections or loud voices
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- Needs regular grooming for wiry coat
- May be timid around rough children

Protect your Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffon can develop eye issues and respiratory problems. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Brussels Griffons are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
This breed is intelligent and quick to learn but can show some stubbornness. Consistent, positive training methods work best, and early socialization is important for well-rounded development.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
30–45 minutes daily
recommended per day
Brussels Griffons have moderate energy levels and benefit from daily walks and interactive play. They also need mental stimulation to prevent boredom, making puzzle toys and training exercises beneficial.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Brussels Griffons are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Brussels Griffon would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Easy to train and adaptable, but needs regular attention and socialization
Apartment Living
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment living well
Active Lifestyle
Enjoys play but may tire quickly during intense activity
Kids
Sensitive to rough handling and may be overwhelmed by energetic children
Multiple Pets
Can get along with other pets if socialized from a young age
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Brussels Griffons compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brussels Griffon
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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