Many people have never been around a Brussels and have only seen them in the movies.  For this reason, I would like to share with you a little information about them.  

The Breed was introduced from Belgium, where they were known as the dogs of Hansom Cab Drivers. These little dogs were often found sitting on the front seat of the cab where their small size and street urchin look won over many hearts of the people. The Griffon has been popular from the beginning because of their smart appearance and sassy attitude. The Brussels Griffon were first shown in 1880. The Griffon has quite a mixed background - the German Affenpinscher, Belgian Street Terriers, the Pug, the King Charles Spaniel and even the Yorkshire Terrier are believed to have made contributions to the little dogs we see today.

Verdell in the movie, "As Good As It Gets", does not portray a natural version of a Brussels Griffon look. It took more than one dog to make the movie. As far as I have been able to research the dogs were naturally red with some black in their masks. But Hollywood wanted a solid colored black mask so they colored the dogs beards solid black. If you research and look at websites that show champion Brussels Griffon you will find that Verdell's coloring is not the norm. I have yet to find a picture of a Show Dog or any other Brussel Griffon that has the coloring just like Verdell as an adult.

Brussels have an undeniable charm of their own!  They are very unique.  Griffon's flat face, prominent chin and large appealing wide-set eyes remind people of a small monkey or elf.  His square body is covered with either a rough coat or a smooth coat.  A Brussels coats come in 4 different colors: 

	Red:  a wide range of red coloring
	Belge, Black & Reddish Brown:  mixed color
	Black & Tan:  black with uniform reddish brown markings, appearing under the chin and legs
	Black:  solid black.

The rough coat is wiry and dense, the smooth coat is straight, short, tight and glossy with no trace of wiry hair.  These little guys are very sensitive and have a lively spirit plus a HUGE heart!  They have been bred to be the ultimate companion and be the shadow of his beloved master, the Griffon is happy as long as he can be with YOU!  He is not for those who have little time for a dog.  

Brussels Griffons are very intelligent, alert, and sturdy.  Training should start easy and needs to be consistent and precise.  Because the Griffon's super intelligence, this causes them to be very sensitive also. They do well with other dogs.  He will let you know if he hears something strange outside but he isn't rated high as a guard dog.  They are obedient and easily managed.  Their training should begin early in age.  The Brussels Griffons do NOT do well in extreme temperatures!!!!. These dogs are considered a house pet. 

No matter how cute these little dogs turn out, it will be their personality that will make you LOVE these dogs more and more each minute that you are around them!!  We LOVE these dogs very much!  They love attention and are very loyal to their masters.  We have found them to be GREAT dogs.  They are very easy to fall head over heals in love with!  I know we certainly have!