Brussels griffon, breed of sturdy toy dog developed in Belgium in the 18th and 19th cent. It stands about 8 in. (20.3 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs from 6 to 12 lb (2.7–5.5 kg). There are two varieties, the wirehaired and the smooth. The coat of the former is dense and wiry with a fringe of hair around the eyes, nose, cheeks, and chin. Its color is reddish brown, black, or a combination of these two. The smooth variety, called Brabançon, has a short, finely textured coat and may be reddish brown or black marked with reddish brown, but not solid black. Believed to have been produced by crossing affenpinschers with the pug, and possibly the toy spaniels, the Brussels griffon is popular as a companion and house pet. See dog.
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