Brussels Griffon

Appearance

All three types of Griffon are generally small, with a flat face, prominent chin and large wide-set eyes that give them an almost human expression. They are sometimes compared to an Ewok from the Star Wars movies. All three breeds are sturdy toy dogs with thick-set, well-balanced bodies that give a squared appearance in proportion when viewed from the side. A proper Griffon should be muscular, compact and well-boned, not seem delicate, racy or overly stout.

Size

The Griffon often feels heavier than it is for such a small size. Because they are judged by weight rather than by shoulder height, proper proportioning is essential to determine whether a dog is too fat, too slim or too tall for its size.

Weight standards, especially where the upper limit, varies among the breed standards. The ideal weight is eight pounds to ten (3.6 to 4.5 kilograms) for both sexes.

Coat and Color

In the Brussels Griffon and the Belgian Griffin, the coat is wiry, harsh and dense. By breed standards, at no time should it look or feel woolly. It should be short enough not to disrupt the form of the dog over the body, and long enough to distinguish the texture and type from the Petit Brabançon.

Furnishings around the face form a fringe around the eyes, nose, cheeks and chin, but should not be allowed to grow into a long, flowing beard. The eyebrow, moustache and beard look is essential to the human-like expression sought after in the breed.

• Griffon Bruxellois: Red or reddish-brown. Black allowed on muzzle.
• Griffon Belge: Black, black and tan (a black and tan pattern with emphasis on a rich red shade), black and red (black mixed evenly with reddish-brown hairs). Black and red may have a black face mask.
• Petit Brabançon: All colors allowed for the other standards. Until recently, black short may have been a fault, but it is now allowed in all standards. A black mask is expected on the red or reddish brown coat. Gray hair from age is not penalized.