How to Identify a Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffons may be seen sporting one of two coat types: rough or smooth. These are two distinct varieties of the breed, though the only difference between the two is the coat; they are identical in all other ways. ^[11]

1. 1
   Identify the rough coat. Griffons of the rough-coated variety have hard, wiry, dense coats without any woolly or silky fur. Rather than giving off a shaggy appearance, rough-coated dogs are wiry and distinctively different all over the body than smooth-coated dogs. The head of the dog is covered with wiry hair that is longer around the eyes, nose, cheeks, and chin and forms a fringe. ^[12]

   • The rough coat of a Brussels Griffon can be compared to that of a Schnauzer. ^[13]
2. 2
   Take note of the smooth coat. Dogs of the smooth-coated variety have coats that are short, straight, glossy, and tight. They give off no trace of wiry hair. ^[14]

   • The smooth coat of a Brussels Griffon can be compared to that of a Pug. ^[15]
3. 3
   Check the dog's coat color. A Brussels Griffon may have one of four coat colors. These are red, belge, black and tan, and black. ^[16]

   • Red coats are reddish brown in color and may include a small amount of black at the whiskers or chin.
   • Belge coats are a mix of black and reddish brown, typically including a black mask and whiskers.
   • Black and tan coats are solid black with reddish brown markings appearing under the chin, on the legs, above each eye, around the edges of the ears, and around the vent. These markings appear uniform on dogs of this coat color.
   • Black coats are simply a solid black color.
   • Griffs do not have any white hairs, with the exception of "frost" on the muzzle of an older dog that naturally appears with age. They do not have white spots or blazes anywhere.
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1. 1
   See if the dog is stubborn. Brussels Griffons are known for having a stubborn streak. They have minds of their own and require firm leadership. ^[17]

   Did you know? Brussels Griffons may be toy breed dogs, but they are incredibly terrier-like in both appearance and temperament. In their homeplace, coachmen kept small terrier dogs to keep the rat population down, and these dogs, possibly along with Yorkshire Terriers, are part of the Griff's genetic mix. ^[18]
2. 2
   Take note if the dog is alert. As they are an alert breed, Griffs can make keen watchdogs. Be aware, however, that they may bark frequently whether you intend for them to be a watchdog or not. ^[19]
3. 3
   Recognize that Griffs are prone to suspiciousness. Brussels Griffons may either become friendly with guests or become cautious, shy, or potentially defensive. They may grow suspicious of strangers, whether animal or human, when approached. ^[20]
4. 4
   Check for a spirited personality. Griffs are happy and comical dogs, and they take themselves very seriously. They are proud and full of self-importance. ^[21]
5. 5
   Watch for intelligence. Griffs are clever dogs and may use that to their owner's advantage. Combined with their imagination and curiosity, they can cause trouble if given the opportunity. ^[22]
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