The origins of the griffon are somewhat unclear – with varying theories on the subject.  Some believe that the famous portrait of “The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini and Giovanna Cenami” by Jan van Eyck dated in 1434 contains an early example of the breed.  Others believe that its simply a hybrid which has developed from the late 1800’s in Belgium.  Certainly the breed gained huge popularity in the late 19th Century when the Belgian Royal Family “adopted” the griffon -rather like the British Royal Family has adopted the corgi.

Regardless of its origin, the griffon has survived and evolved over the years and is today an amazing little dog with wonderful character and cheeky charm.  The quasi-human expression certainly conjures up a reaction in the onlooker – some find them incredibly beautiful others regard them as quite ugly!  One thing is for sure however, once you have owned a griffon (or a griff has owned you as a friend of mine often says) you become totally smitten and quickly conclude that few dogs can impress quite as much!  They are highly intelligent, robust, amusing, loyal and loving, little dogs – prone to making you laugh out loud with their antics!  They are simply the best companions around!

Apart from their characters they have a very distinct monkey face expression.  There are two coat types – the rough (known as the Bruxellois) and the smooth (known as the petit brabançon).  There are three colours: red, black and the black and tan.  Their general appearance is of a well balanced, cobby, square little dog with a large round head which has a lively and alert expression. In conclusion, they are utterly beautiful!!