The first thing that comes to mind when looking at thesefunny little dogs – brownies! An upturned nose, sly eyes, and even a beard and moustache. And behind such an unusual appearance lies a cheerful disposition and exceptional strength of spirit. So who are the griffins? Let's get to know them better: what kind of dog is a griffin, where did it come from and what is it like.
The history of griffins, or Three in one
Griffons are a group of breeds.It includes the Brussels Griffon, the Belgian Griffon and the Brabancon Griffon (Petit Brabancon). These dogs trace their ancestry to Belgium, where they appeared at the beginning of the 15th century. Different sources describe different versions of the origin and breeding of griffons. According to the main version, these are hunting dogs (some of them are hounds, others are pointers). These breeds were created specifically for hunting in France, and their appearance was formed taking into account local climatic conditions and hunting characteristics. Another version claims that griffons were originally bred to fight rodents. As excellent rat-catchers, they were kept in their homes by commoners, artisans and merchants. And some sources report that griffons are the favorites of the aristocracy. Precious tiny dogs were a symbol of elegance and an indispensable companion of high society ladies. Disputes about their origin do not subside to this day. Whether the truth will be born in them or not is unknown. But all griffons (Brussels, Belgian and Petit Brabancon) are so genetically close that they never cease to amaze even professional cynologists.
Genetics of griffins, or Miracles of dog breeding
The thing is that one mother and even oneAll three breeds of griffons can be born in a litter! And you can determine what breed the puppy will be only by the color and type of fur (and then - closer to the age of one month). It is also noteworthy that wire-haired parents give birth to both smooth and "bristly" babies. While smooth-haired griffons do not produce wire-haired offspring. Metamorphoses with color are also interesting. So, for example, the Petit Brabancon can be red, black and black and tan, the Brussels - only red, and the Belgian Griffon - black or black and tan. So Petit Brabancons give puppies of all colors, but two red parents will only have red offspring. And Brussels Griffons give only red Brabancons and Griffons. Why? Riddle... As for the breeds that participated in the breeding of modern griffons. There is no consensus here either. It is believed that the blood of the King Charles Spaniel, the Affenpinscher, the Irish and Yorkshire Terriers, and even the pug flows in their veins. Some cynologists claim that the griffons got their round eyes and snub-nosed muzzle from the pugs. But no matter what blood flows in them, griffons are very different from all other dogs and are surprisingly similar to each other. How to distinguish griffons?
The rocks of griffins, or Such identical, but different
All Griffons are small and energetic dogs.They have round bulging eyes, flattened upturned noses and a strong build. They differ in color and type of coat. The Brussels Griffon is wire-haired and can only be red. The Belgian Griffon also has a wire coat, but its color can be black and black and tan. But the Petit Brabancon is a smooth-haired black, red or black and tan griffon. And it can also have a mixed color (red with black and brown). And the Brabancon does not have a beard and mustache. The Belgian and Brussels Griffons with their curious appearance resemble a cross between a dog and a monkey. Petit Brabancon is a photo (only a caricature) of a miniature boxer or a skinny pug. In addition to a similar appearance, all griffons also have the same character.
The character of the griffin, or Vigorous intellectual
The griffin has a balanced psyche anddocile character. Intelligent and quick-witted. Very energetic on walks. Loves to run and play. At the same time, when traveling (in a car, train or plane), he behaves calmly and delicately. Griffons are very affectionate and devoted dogs. They always try to be close to their owner. Very emotional. I feel the mood of the owner. They get along well with children. They get along well with other pets. They are clean, easy to educate and train. They are not aggressive, but they cannot be called timid either. In a word, an ideal dog for any family. Among the disadvantages of griffons, one can only note snoring (well, they snore in their sleep). Although, this is not a character trait, but an anatomy. And from the features of care, it is necessary to note the need for trimming (twice a year). Although, for example, the Petit Brabancon does not require such care. But, despite the fact that this dog can be called an ideal companion, it is not suitable for everyone.
Who should get the griffins, or the similarity of the characters
Griffins have a cheerful disposition and irrepressibleenergy. Therefore, any of the griffons (Belgian, Brussels or Petit Brabancon) will not suit a gloomy, withdrawn and melancholic person (however, it is better for such people not to have any dog at all). But all griffons are great as a family pet. And if there are children in the family, then you simply cannot find a better friend than a griffon for a child. You can run and play with him, he will never offend a child, and he will not let himself be offended. For older people, the griffon will also be a wonderful companion. They behave well on walks, do not bark at passers-by, do not run after cats or birds. Griffons are an excellent option for lovers of dog sports. And the Petit Brabancon will suit even allergy sufferers who dream of having a dog - the owners of griffons claim that there is no hair or smell in the house from this dog. So, if your pet is a bearded griffon or a smooth-haired petit brabancon, you will certainly find a common language with it. And this live brownie with a "motor" will certainly become not only a favorite of all household members, but also a kind of talisman of home comfort and family well-being. We recommend reading:
