Belgian griffins are wonderful dogs

Belgian griffins - a decorative, specially bred breed of dogs. Her ancestors were good rat-catchers. The described breed, together with the Brussels griffin and poultry-brabanson, is in a troika of small Belgian dogs. All of them differ only in color and type of wool, but each has its own breed standard.

Currently, Belgian griffins have long lost their skills, but their inherent courage and very active behavior in life have been preserved. These kids will not be afraid of the enemy, no matter how big 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 a somewhat excessive shyness, which manifests itself at the sight of strangers.

Breed "Belgian griffin": the history of appearance

Most likely, it originated from the crossing of the Brussels Griffon with the toy terrier, the dwarf spaniel and the pug. Pups of the described breed first appeared on the exhibition in 1889. This type of griffon development and popularity should be due to the Queen of Belgium. It was she who first fell in love with these little dogs. Such patronage allowed them to very quickly become very popular in the country and be considered a national breed.

History also mentions that the Serbian Queen Draha used this breed to test her food. To prevent poisoning, she gave the dog to try food before trying it herself. Once her pet died after a meal, confirming her suspicions.

In the beginning of the 20th century, changes were made to the standard of the Griffon breed, and also the differences between all three similar dogs are indicated. Then the Belgian griffins acquired their present form. At the same time, a massive export of these dogs from Belgium to the United States and Europe. This greatly contributed to the popularity and spread of the Belgian griffin breed. The photo with their image was at that time a good souvenir. Before the first world, griffons of all kinds became one of the most popular dogs in Belgium.

After the war, the kids of this breed practically disappeared. And the development began almost anew. But World War II again caused great damage to this species. Currently, they are common in the UK and the US, and in Belgium it is now a fairly rare breed.

External signs

Belgian griffins are miniature, harmoniously built, strong dogs. Their features are a snub-nosed muzzle and round eyes. The constitution they have is fairly dense, the chest is wide, paws of medium length and straight, slightly similar to the feline. The tail is quite high. The head resembles an apple in shape, it is very broad with a pronounced fracture in the middle and a dome-shaped skull. In all Belgian dogs the lower fangs project forward much more than the upper ones. The movements are very powerful, with strong jerks of the hind legs.

The growth of these babies is not regulated, but the restrictions in their weight are very accurate. It should not exceed six kilograms, but it can not be less than three and a half. Usually their growth is not more than 25 cm.

Belgian griffins are wonderful companion dogs. They are dexterous and agile. Easily trained in various tricks.