The Brussels Griffon dog has two varieties; the Raugh and smooth coat. Its ancestry is very mixed, but the breed probably started off as a variation of the now fairly rare breed of German Affenpinscher farm dog. Initially kept as ratters, their self-assertiveness and determination to be with their owners at all times led them to a position in society as fashionable pets. Once established as such, other breeds were brought into 'smarten' them up; these appear to have included a variety of terriers, pugs, and judging by the Brussels Griffon's large expressive eyes-toy spaniels. The Griffon Bruxellois is a compact, sturdy dog with an alert expression. The head is large with a short wide muzzle and an undershot mouth without showing teeth or tongue. Eyes are large and dark ears are very small semierect forming a beard on a chin colored red or black.




White patches on a cat's coat are not desirable. The ideal weight for these cats is between 3 and 11 pounds, although the breed standard does not specify a height.