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Brussels Griffon vs Poodle

Discover the differences between Brussels Griffon and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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Brussels Griffon
Belgium

Brussels Griffon

Toy Group
Small

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.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Small

Male:

3.5–6 kg

Coat:

Rough or smooth, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

3–5.5 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Brussels Griffon

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate and bonds closely with family members

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responsive to training efforts

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate activity needs, enjoys regular exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Lively, enjoys interactive play and toys

Adaptability
3/5

Handles change fairly well, may be sensitive

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Brussels Griffon

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
30–45 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Eye issues, respiratory problems

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Brussels Griffon

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easy to train and adaptable, but needs regular attention and socialization

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment living well

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Somewhat suitable

Enjoys play but may tire quickly during intense activity

Kids
2/5

Not ideal

Sensitive to rough handling and may be overwhelmed by energetic children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Can get along with other pets if socialized from a young age

Being Left Alone
1/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Brussels Griffon

  • Alert watchdog with keen senses
  • Affectionate and bonds closely with owners
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Playful and entertaining companion
  • Generally good with other pets

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Brussels Griffon

  • 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

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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