What to Know Before Buying a Brussels Griffon Puppy
Quick answer: Before you buy a Brussels Griffon puppy, plan for a tiny (6 to 12 pound) toy dog with an almost human, self-important expression and a personality far larger than its body. They’re smart, devoted, and sensitive, bonding hard to one or two people and disliking being left alone. As a somewhat flat-faced breed they can be heat-sensitive, and house-training takes patience. They live 12 to 15 years. Buy from an American Brussels Griffon Association breeder.
At a Glance
| Group | Toy (AKC, recognized 1910) |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Height | Roughly 7–10 inches |
| Weight | 6–12 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat | Two types: rough (wiry) or smooth; moderate grooming |
| Color | Red, beige (belge), black and tan, or black |
| Temperament | Intelligent, alert, sensitive, devoted, comically self-important |
| Good for | Attentive adults and calm households; apartments |
1. A Huge Personality in a Tiny Package
Griffons are famous for their almost-human, self-important expression and outsized character, smart, curious, and devoted, with a personality that feels mastiff-sized in a toy body (they even inspired the look of the Ewoks). They typically pick a favorite person and bond intensely. That devotion means they don’t tolerate being left alone for long and can develop separation-related behaviors.
2. Sensitive, Smart, and a Bit Stubborn to Train
Griffons are intelligent and capable of tricks and even agility, but they’re sensitive and stubborn, so they need gentle, patient, positive-reinforcement training, harsh corrections backfire. House-training, as with many toy breeds, takes extra time and consistency. They can be reserved with strangers and may bark, so early socialization helps.
3. Small-Dog and Flat-Face Care
Griffons are somewhat brachycephalic, so they snore, can be sensitive to heat and humidity, and shouldn’t be over-exercised in warm weather. Their nose fold and face need regular cleaning to stay dry and infection-free. Their small size means careful handling and supervision around young children and bigger dogs.
4. Grooming and Health
Grooming depends on coat type: the rough coat is typically hand-stripped and brushed, while the smooth coat just needs regular brushing. The breed is generally healthy but can face eye problems (those large, prominent eyes are vulnerable to injury), patellar luxation, and syringomyelia in some lines, which careful breeders screen for.
5. Finding a Responsible Breeder
This is a relatively hard-to-find breed, so expect a possible waitlist. Start with the American Brussels Griffon Association and verify any breeder against the AKC Marketplace. A good breeder shows clearances, raises well-socialized puppies, and avoids “teacup” marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Brussels Griffon puppy cost?
They’re relatively rare, so expect a premium and possibly a waitlist. Prices vary by breeder and region, so confirm current figures directly with ABGA breeders.
Are Brussels Griffons good apartment dogs?
Yes. Their small size and devoted nature suit apartments well, though they prefer not to be left alone for long and can be vocal without training.
Are Brussels Griffons good with children?
They do best in calm, adult-centered homes or with older, gentle children. Their small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling, so supervision is essential.
Do Brussels Griffons shed?
The smooth coat sheds modestly; the rough coat sheds little but needs hand-stripping. Neither is truly hypoallergenic.
Read the official AKC breed standard
Sources
American Kennel Club – Brussels Griffon
American Brussels Griffon Association
AKC – Brachycephalic breeds & breathing
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
AKC Marketplace