| Height | 7-10 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8-10 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Curious / Loyal [1] |
| AKC group | Toy Group [1] |
| Origin | Belgium [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 82 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Griffons need at least a half-hour of moderate exercise a day to stay healthy and happy. They love to romp and play, and are happiest when doing activities together with their people. A game of chasing the ball is fun for both dog and owner. [1]
Grooming
There are two types of Brussels Griffon, with two types of coats: smooth and rough. With the smooth-coated Griffon, weekly brushing'¿daily during shedding season, which is usually a week or two in the spring, and then again in the fall'¿and the occasional bath will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best. Rough-coated Griffons do not shed. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Griffs are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as heart problems, eye defects such as cataracts, and orthopedic problems such as patella luxation and hip dysplasia. Like all flat-faced breeds, Brussels Griffons can experience breathing problems in sunny, hot, or humid weather, and usually snore. As with all breeds, a Griffon's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Brussels Griffon in 1910. [1]
- It ranked No. 82 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 95 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Griffon Bruxellois, Griff.” [1]
- The AKC lists Belgium as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Brussels Griffons live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Brussels Griffon get?
AKC breed information lists height 7-10 inches and weight 8-10 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Brussels Griffon?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Brussels Griffon, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.