Petit Brabancon

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Petit Brabancon is a small companion dog that originated in Belgium. There are three types of these dogs namely the Griffon Bruxellois, the Griffon Belge and the Petit Braban�on. All three types are identical in breed standards and the difference is only in colour and coat type. In some countries, these three types are considered ONE breed known as either Belgian or Brussels while in other places, each type is classified separately.

The Petit Brabancons are smart, intelligent and alert dogs. Affectionate, charming and curious personality of this little dog makes it a good companion. Very active indoors, the dog is very suitable for apartment life.

The face of the Petit Brabancon has almost human expression. The large head is round with a doomed forehead. Large, black and prominent eyes are set well apart while ears are small and set very high on head. The nose is black and very short. Neck is medium length and gracefully arched. Back is short and level. Body is short and thickset. The tail is set high and docked to about one third. Forelegs are medium in length, straight and are well-muscles while hindlegs are strong, stifles bent. The dog sports two types of coats; the wiry, rough and dense coat with no traces of silky hair and the smooth coat that is straight, short, tight and glossy with no traces of wiry hair. The breed has height and weight between 7-8 inches and 6-12 pounds respectively.

AKC recognize this breed as ONE breed under the name 'Brussels Griffon'.

Color

The Petit Brabancon can come in any color but is most commonly a dark red with a black mask.

Coat

The Petit Brabancon has a short, silky coat that is best described to have the appearance of a pugs coat.

Personality

The Petit Brabancon is a bright, charismatic little dog that can be quite sensitive. They are loving companions that thrive on being part of the family and don't like being left alone. They get along well with other dogs and small pets making them a great dog for families. The Petit Brabancon is a notorious barker and can be quite picky with their diet! This breed is a posh and classy little dog who loves to be spoiled rotten! They want to be carried around, have constant attention on them and be in the presence of their owners at all times. If this dog is going to be left alone often they will become very depressed.

Care

The Petit Brabancon will need weekly grooming to keep their coat at its best. They will need to be brushed about twice per week, and bathed every 2-3 months or according to how often their owner would like. These dogs are prone to respiratory problems due to their pushed in face, slipping stifles and difficulty birthing. Eye problems can also be common, such as cataracts, glaucoma and lacerations of the eyeball due to their eyes being slightly protruded from their face.

Training

The Petit Brabancon is a sensitive dog that will need regular consistent training and a firm mannerism for them to grasp obedience. Often owners will take pity in being stricter with these dogs because they have a charming attitude that allows them to get their way often. Just like any other breed, this dog will need gentle methods and consistency to be able to learn and be well trained.

Activity

This breed will need a short walk everyday for their exercise needs. They play inside throughout the day which burns off most of their energy. The Brussels Griffon will be perfect for apartments because they don't take up much space. A backyard is not needed as long as they are taken out for daily walks.