Belgian griffins are a decorative, specially bred dog breed. Her ancestors were good rat-catchers. The described breed, together with the Brussels griffin and the bird-brabancon, is in the top three small Belgian dogs. All of them differ only in color and type of wool, but each has its own breed standard.
Currently, the Belgian griffins have long lost their skills, however, they preserved their inherent courage and very active behavior in life. These kids will not be afraid of the enemy, no matter what size he is. Such crumbs are ready to protect the owner to the last drop of blood, although in general these dogs are friendly, peaceful and perfectly find a common language with all the inhabitants of the house.
An interesting feature of these babies is the somewhat excessive shyness that manifests itself when they see strangers.
Belgian Griffin breed: history of occurrence
Most likely, it came from the crossing of a Brussels Griffon with a toy terrier, a dwarf spaniel and a pug. Puppies of the described breed first appeared at the exhibition in 1889. This type of griffon for its development and popularity should be obliged to the Queen of Belgium. It was she who first fell in love with these little dogs. This patronage allowed them to very quickly become very popular in the country and be considered a national breed.
The story also mentions that the Serbian queen Dragha used this breed to test her foods. To prevent poisoning, she gave the dog a meal before tasting it herself. Once her pet died after a meal, confirming her suspicions.
At the beginning of the 20th century, changes were made to the standard of the Griffon breed, as well as the differences between all three similar dogs. Then the Belgian griffins acquired their present form. At the same time, the mass export of these dogs from Belgium to the USA and European countries began. This greatly contributed to the popularity and spread of the Belgian griffin breed. A photo with their image was a good souvenir at that time. Before World War I, griffons of all kinds became some of the most popular dogs in Belgium.
After the war, the kids of this breed almost disappeared. And the development began almost anew. But World War II again caused enormous damage to this species. Currently, they are common in the UK and the USA, and in Belgium it is now a rather rare breed.
External signs
Belgian griffins are miniature, harmoniously built, strong dogs. Their features are a snub-nosed muzzle and round eyes. They have a rather dense physique, chest is wide, legs are of medium length and straight, a bit like feline. The tail is pretty tall. The head is shaped like an apple, it is very wide with a pronounced fracture in the middle and a domed skull. In all Belgian dogs, the lower fangs protrude significantly more than the upper. The movements are very powerful, with strong shocks of the hind legs.
The growth of these babies is not regulated, but the restrictions on their weight are very accurate. It should not exceed six kilograms, but also can not be less than three and a half. Usually their height is not more than 25 cm.
Belgian griffins are great companion dogs. They are agile and agile. Easy to learn various tricks.