Big Branch Creek

(870) 269-2376

PO BOX 1218, Mountain View, Arkansas 72560

Origins of the Brussels Griffon

Seymour N. Weiss includes a wonderful history of the Brussels Griffon in his book, "Brussels Griffon: A Complete and Reliable Handbook". He mentions that Van Eyck included a dog that looked very much like a Griffon in one of her paintings. And Jacopo Empoli included them in his paintings (1545-1640). Griffons have also been the favorites of royalty.

However, today's Brussels Griffon probably dates from the middle or latter part of the 19th century. In Belgium, one of his ancestors was a little native street dog called Griffon D'Ecruie (Stable Griffon). His main function was to be a ratter around stables. The breed wasn't handsome, but was found in almost every household in the country.

The Stable Griffon was eventually crossed with the Affenpinscher and Yorkshire Terrier, which brought down the size & increased the ratting ability. Later crossings with the Pug, brought in the flat nose and smooth coat variety (Brabancon). Introduction of the English Toy Spaniel into the breed gave the Griffon his singular appearance, but also made him incapable of being a great ratter.

Today's Brussels Griffon is truly one of the most different and striking of all dogs. He is the result of much cross-breeding throughout the years to produce a truly captivating little companion.

The Brussels Griffon is considered a rare breed in the USA.