The Griffon dog breed is one of the oldest toy dogs. It's over five hundred years old, and images of Griffons can be found in paintings dating back to the fifteenth century. Below, you'll learn about this breed and the different types of Griffons available today. You'll also see photos of dogs representing this breed.
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History of the breed and types of griffons
In ancient times, Griffons were often found as pets among the wealthy, especially beloved by ladies, who carried them as "pocket" dogs. Dogs of this breed were often used to control rats and other rodents.
Griffons were first presented as a breed at an exhibition in 1880. A few years later, the breed was officially registered in Belgium. Now Griffons are widespread throughout the world. and are incredibly popular among dog lovers, and they are also very popular in Russia.
The Griffon breed is divided into three types:
- Belgian Griffon Dogs;
- Brussels;
- Smooth-haired (Brabancon birds).
All three subspecies of this breed are very similar to each other, but differ in coat type and color. The photo shows their distinctive features.
Characteristics and photos of the Brussels Griffon
Many people think that the Brussels Griffon is a small dog like a cat that does not need to be walked, and it able to use a litter box at home, but in reality, it's not. Despite its size, the Brussels Griffon requires a fair amount of attention. Specifically, it's essential to:
walk the dog regularly and thoroughly;- bring up;
- train;
- give the opportunity to hunt.
walk the dog regularly and thoroughly;Brussels Griffons have a very developed sense of superiority, which they always try to show to other dogs, even if they are larger in size. They They are very fearless, which allows them to take part in various fights. with other dogs and animals and emerge victorious.
Griffons of this breed have great difficulty parting with their owners, remember that when you acquire a puppy, you get a constant companion that will be with you wherever you go.
Fearlessness and a sense of superiority are characteristic traits of this dog, therefore they need training and education from an early age, otherwise these qualities will become dominant and it will be extremely difficult for you to cope with your pet.
The Brussels Griffon must have a room in the apartment. your own personal corner for relaxation and toy storage and other things. He often collects things that his owner loses over time and stores them in one place. With the help of his four-legged friend, you can find long-lost items:
- socks;
- pens;
- scarves;
- balls and much more.
Dogs of this breed are very home-loving and not known for their greed. This is an excellent breed for an apartment, so you can confidently go to a breeder to find a Griffon.
Belgian Griffon: Photos and Breed Description
The appearance of the Belgian Griffon can be described as follows:
- small square body;
- weight from 3 to 5 kg;
- height about 25 cm;
- round and wide head;
- short muzzle;
- eyes are bulging and brown, large;
- black nose;
- hard wool (this is where the Belgian breed differs primarily from the Brussels breed), medium length, thick;
- the coat color is black or reddish, has protection from moisture and cold;
- a chin protruding in front of the lower jaw;
- beard;
- protrusion of the lower incisors over the upper teeth;
- ears hanging on cartilage, which are cropped to a point;
- broad chest;
- straight back;
- straight legs, located parallel to each other;
- a tail raised upwards, usually docked at 2-3 vertebrae.
a chin protruding in front of the lower jaw;In the photo you can see in detail all the external features of a dog of this breed.
The character of the Belgian Griffon
Belgian Griffons are distinguished by the following character traits:
- self-confidence;
- sociability;
- curiosity.
They'll keep children company, run around the street, or happily take their owner on a leisurely stroll to the store. Dogs of this breed are very playful. Owners should provide them with:
- active lifestyle;
- long walks and jogs;
- physical activities.
Belgian Griffons thrive on order but also enjoy new experiences. They are very intelligent and kind, easily trained, and not known for their stubbornness. Representatives of this breed love communication, so on walks they will meet other dogs and their owners, but will not get involved in conflicts.
Peculiarities of keeping Belgian Griffons
Unlike many other small breeds, the Belgian breed is not known for being capricious, these dogs bark extremely rarely, they are almost always in a good mood and they strive to please you all the time and maintain. They are also very clean, but still need their faces wiped after eating.
Belgian Griffons have a coarse coat, so it requires trimming twice a year when the animal sheds. However, clipping with clippers or scissors is not necessary, and bathing the dog is not recommended. If necessary, wipe the muzzle with a wet clothAs a rule, griffons are healthy and do not require special care.
Little Belgian Griffons need a lot of affection and care, but don't overindulge them. Over time, they'll accept your authority, so Set acceptable boundaries for your pet in advance In terms of behavior, and to ensure they adhere to them. Griffons love to eat, but overfeeding them isn't good for their health.
It's recommended to train your dog in agility—a special obstacle course that the dog and owner must navigate together. This sport is very exciting and engaging, and both dogs and their owners will enjoy it. In most cases, training sessions go great., since griffons prefer to be in the company of their owner all the time.
Walking and feeding griffons
Regardless of which breed you choose, the Belgian Griffon or the Brussels Griffon, the walking and feeding requirements will be identical.
This breed of dog should be walked with a collar and leash. Choose the right size when purchasing to prevent the dog from slipping out during a walk. the collar must be fastened so that two fingers of a person could fit under it when it was fastened around the animal's neck.
The best walks are before meals. An adult dog needs to be walked twice a day for at least half an hour. If your the walk is combined with training, then first the animal should run well and get some physical exercise, and only then can you begin to train it and teach it commands.
As for the nutrition of dogs of these breeds, due to their activity, they expend a large amount of energy, and therefore have a good appetite. But you need to know your limits And don't overfeed them. And to remove food debris from your dog's beard after eating, wipe it with a napkin.
Most breeders recommend using non-natural products for feeding, but special balanced foods designed for small breed dogs.
Possible diseases of Griffons
As already mentioned, dogs of this breed are predominantly are distinguished by good health and practically never get sick, if properly cared for. However, due to the unique structure of their skull, they may be susceptible to specific health conditions, such as:
- retinal atrophy;
- extra eyelashes;
- cataract;
- narrowed nostrils.
In addition, griffons often experience complications during childbirth.
Purchase and price of a griffin
Like other breeds, griffons are best purchased from specialized and reputable breeders. Of course, you can negotiate a lower price from a private seller or at a market, but that's not guaranteed. the purchased dog will meet all the criteria This breed is especially important for those who expect their pet to compete in various shows.
You'll receive all the necessary documents at the kennel. The average cost of a puppy will be between $200 and $1,000, depending on a number of factors.
Griffon dog breed distinguished by loyalty and good nature, they will become a loyal friend for you, your children and other family members.
