11 Things to Know Before Owning a Brussels Griffon

Thinking about bringing home a Brussels Griffon? These little dogs are full of personality — spunky, affectionate, and surprisingly bold for their size. But before you fall in love with that adorable face and big-dog attitude stuffed into a tiny body, there are some real-life things you should know.

Here’s what we’ve learned from hands-on experience with this breed and helping others decide if a Brussels Griffon is the right fit.

1. Small Body, Big Personality

Brussels Griffons are confident little characters — often described as “big dogs in small bodies.” They’re bold, bossy, and love being in the middle of whatever’s going on. They’re also incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their people. If you’re looking for a clingy, cuddly shadow, this might be your dog.

But with that attachment can come issues like separation anxiety. These dogs don’t like being left alone for long stretches, so they’re best for someone who’s home a lot or can take their dog on errands or to work.

2. High Energy in a Compact Package

Don’t let their size fool you. These dogs have energy to burn and love to play — fetch, tug-of-war, and even short hikes. They do well in apartments, but only if you commit to daily walks and playtime. Two short walks a day usually does the trick, but without enough activity, they can get bored and start barking, chewing, or digging.

3. Grooming Depends on the Coat

Griffies come in two coat types: rough (wiry and shaggy) and smooth (short and sleek). Rough coats need weekly brushing and a bit more hands-on care, especially during shedding seasons. Smooth coats are easier, but both types need regular upkeep — think nail trims, ear checks, and especially dental care (those tiny mouths mean crowded teeth and dental issues).

4. Training: Smart But Stubborn

These dogs are clever and usually eager to please, but they can also be independent thinkers. We’ve had the best results with short, positive training sessions using treats, praise, and play. Harsh corrections don’t work here — they’ll either shut down or push back.

Socialization is super important, especially early on. They can get bossy or anxious around other pets or new people if not properly introduced.

5. Barking Is a Thing

Griffons are vocal. They’ll alert you to every squirrel, visitor, or creaky floorboard if you let them. While barking is natural, it can become a problem in apartments or shared housing. Boredom and anxiety make it worse, so keep them mentally and physically engaged. Training helps, but barking is part of the package with this breed.

6. They Can Live With Other Pets — With Effort

With proper socialization, Brussels Griffons can learn to live peacefully with other pets. But their terrier roots mean they have a prey drive — small animals like hamsters or birds might not be safe roommates. If you already have pets, go slow with introductions and supervise early interactions.

7. Health: Watch the Breathing and Joints

Griffies can live up to 15 years, but they’re prone to a few health issues. Their short muzzles can cause breathing problems (especially in heat), and their tiny legs are vulnerable to things like patellar luxation and hip issues. Dental problems and eye conditions are also common, so regular vet checkups are a must.

8. Not the Best Match for Young Kids

Because they’re small and delicate, Brussels Griffons aren’t ideal for households with very young children who might not understand how to handle a tiny dog. They can get hurt easily, and they won’t hesitate to defend themselves if handled too roughly.

9. They Need a Lot of Your Time

These dogs thrive on attention, and they’ll let you know if they’re not getting enough. Between daily walks, grooming, training, and just hanging out, they’ll take up a good chunk of your day. If your schedule is packed or you’re not home much, this probably isn’t the right breed for you.

10. They’re Apartment-Friendly (With Caveats)

Their size makes them great for smaller homes, but their barking and energy levels can be a challenge in close quarters. If you live in an apartment, be sure you can commit to daily exercise and work on managing their vocal tendencies.

11. Costs Add Up

Beyond the initial cost of getting a Brussels Griffon, you’ll want to budget for high-quality food, grooming supplies (or visits to a pro groomer), vet bills, dental care, and basic gear like toys, beds, and crates. They’re not the most expensive breed, but they’re not low-maintenance either.

Bottom line? Brussels Griffons are charming, quirky, and full of love — but they need time, attention, and a little extra care to thrive. If you’re up for the commitment, they’ll reward you with a ton of personality in a pint-sized package.