Brussels Griffon vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

Brussels Griffon vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonBrussels Griffon is originated from Belgium but Basset Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France. Brussels Griffon may grow 18 cm / 7 inches shorter than Basset Bleu de Gascogne. Brussels Griffon may weigh 12 kg / 26 pounds lesser than Basset Bleu de Gascogne. Both Brussels Griffon and Basset Bleu de Gascogne has almost same life span. Both Brussels Griffon and Basset Bleu de Gascogne has almost same litter size. Both Brussels Griffon and Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate maintenance.

History

brussels griffon - historyThe Brussels Griffon is one of the three different types of Griffons. There is the Belgian, the Petit, and the Brussels Griffon. “Griffon” means wiry and the Brussels Griffon lives up to that moniker. The Brussels Griffon’s coat is longer than that of the Belgian Griffon and the Petit Brabanon (Griffon) has a smooth, short coat. The breed is probably originally developed by crossing Belgian street dogs with the Affenpinsher as early in the 1800’s. They were favored by the cabbies in Brussels as guard dogs. They were also bred to hunt rats. Sometime toward the end of the 19th century, the Griffon was again crossed this time with a pug. This accounts for the type of head that the Brussels Griffon has, namely a brachycephalic head. It also accounts for the smooth coat of the Petit Griffon. The modern-day Griffon may also have been crossed at some time with one or more of these breeds: the English Toy Spaniel, the Irish Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier.

By 1880, the breed was recognized and appeared in the Brussels Exhibition of 1880. They were also found in paintings of the same era by the Flemish painter, Van Eyck. In the beginning of the 20th century, the breed was extremely popular with the nobility in Belgium. As with so many other breeds, the number of Brussels Griffon was greatly reduced during the First World War. It did not take them long however to make a comeback after the war. Their popularity then spread around the globe.

The European FCI considers the Brussels Griffon, the Belgian Griffon and the Petit Brabancon (Griffon) to be three separate breeds with no interbreeding among them. They are shown as three separate breeds in Europe, with the difference between the Belgian and Brussels being the accepted colors. The Brussels is only red in color while the Belgium Griffon can be in all other colors. In the United States the three types of Griffons are considered one breed with three varieties. Only the Brussels Griffon is recognized by the AKC. The difference in coat and color make for the different varieties in the U.S.

basset bleu de gascogne - historyThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an old breed and also one of the most reserved of the Basset family. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s history can be traced back to the 14th century, originating in the region of Gascony, France. At one time there were very few of these dogs and Alain Bourbon began doing something about this in the early 20th century, although he didn’t document his breeding practices . There are theories though and one was that he bred a few of the very first Basset Bleu de Gascognes with the Basset Saintongeois and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne.

Today the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is rarely found anywhere beyond France’s borders and there are only a few clubs for the Basset Bleu de Gascogne.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Hound dog
Origin:
Belgium
France
Height Male:
18 - 20 cm
7 - 8 inches
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
Height Female:
16 - 18 cm
6 - 8 inches
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
11 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 4
3 - 5
Size:
Toy dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Griffon Belge • Griffon Bruxellois • Brussels Griffon • Petit Brabancon • Belgian Griffon • Griffon
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
Colors Available:
red, black-and-reddish-brown (called belge), black and tan, and black
Black with white mottling and some tan
Coat:
rough and smooth types
short and smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Cheerful, Energetic, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

brussels griffon puppy - descriptionAll three types of Griffons are toy size dogs with short, thick bodies and distinctive brachycephalic heads. Regardless of coat color their muzzles and whiskers are black, and they have large eyes, also black, a mustache and beard. They have black eyelashes and a nose that is very black. All this is set against their red, beige, black or black and tan coat. Their forehead is dome shaped and the muzzle is short. The breed has small ears that are high up on the dog’s head. The ears might be cropped in the United States but would not be in Europe. The lower jaw is prominent and the jaw itself is undershot. They have black toenails and pads, with strong and muscular hind legs. The Griffon has a docked, high set tail in the U.S. and a full tail in Europe and all of the United Kingdom.

The rough coated types have a dense and wiry coat and the standard encourages the hardest possible wire coat. Their heads are also wiry and long around the chin, cheeks, nose and eyes. They should be hand-stripped and never left ungroomed. The coat can matt if not taken care of adequately. One of the most important features of the Brussels Griffon is its human like face or monkey like appearance.

The Most Reserved of the Bassets

basset bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne today is a striking looking hound, and is the most reserved o the Basset breeds. When you look at him, their general appearance is large but not too heavy. Long of build, his height at the withers is about 30 – 38cm, and he weighs up to 18kg.

He has short legs, thick bones, long floppy ears and dark brown, sad eyes, but is still agile and able to get around quickly. This particular Basset has a short, smooth, dense coat which is black with a white mottled pattern and some tan marking around the feet and face. You’ll most times notice black patches over his ears and sides of his head and there will typically be a white blaze on his skull.

Gentle Expression, Gentle of Nature

The attractive Basset Bleu de Gascogne is one of 6 Basset Hound breeds, and this one is an energetic, lively dog who possesses a great sense of smell. Easy to train, he slots in well with his human family, wanting to please them all the time. They just love his dark, sorrowful brown eyes and the gentle expression on his face. With his deep bark, he tries to talk to his family. He is fairly easy to train, and with socialization and training he makes an exceptional pet.

He Likes to Roam

Perhaps one aspect of the Basset family that doesn’t go down well with dog owners is their wandering nature. As a scenthound, he often gets the scent of something and wants to put his nose down and follow it. If you haven’t got a sturdy wall or fence around your property, he’ll just wander off.

Characteristics

Characteristics

brussels griffon dog - characteristicsThe Brussels Griffon is sociable, alert and very intelligent. She is very energetic, playful and loving. They bond deeply with their family. Housebreaking might be a challenge as it is with all toy/small breeds. They are incredibly lonely and restless when their people are not around them. They have great personalities, terrier like characteristics, and deep loyalty to their humans. They are great companions and love children. Just remember how small they are. They are susceptible to Little Dog Syndrome if the human does not establish themselves as the alpha right away.

basset bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsThis smooth-coated breed with his low-set ears, his sad eyes, out-turned paws and gentle but intelligent pet make this dog an awesome, companionable pet. He is loyal, affectionate and devoted. They’re good with children and other pets, and can even make superb pets for older- or frail people who may lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

The Basset Bleu also sheds a bit less than their Basset Hound counterparts, although they do tend to shed throughout the year. He will require training, just like any dog really, but you don’t want to be harsh with training, as he is a gentle, sensitive dog.

Laid back, this dog which has always been an excellent hunter in days gone by, will make anyone a devoted, loyal friend.

Health Problems

brussels griffon puppies - health problemsThe Brussels Griffon is susceptible to many of the diseases and genetic conditions that many other toy or small dogs have. Flat-faced breeds like the Griffon also suffer from difficulty with breathing under certain weather conditions and they are known to snore. They should not be kept in hot, sunny, humid climates for this reason. They may also display patella luxation (slipping kneecaps) and hip dysplasia. Lastly, they are susceptible to ear infections. Dams are often in need of cesarean sections to deliver their litters. They have very serious health issues due to the head shape and flat face. These might include eye and respiratory issues and syringomyelia – a deadly neurological disease. They are susceptible to epilepsy, dental issues and eye lash issues.

basset bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsA great aspect with Basset Bleus is that they have very few health issues and are quite laid back. They can easily get to 14 years of age and older with good nutrition and exercise. Nothing is set in stone however, and every breed can suddenly develop health problems.

Dogs like this with a deep chest can be prone to a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat. This is a condition not to be taken lightly as it can be life threatening. Gastric dilatation volvulus means twisted stomach because of excessive gas or flatulence and your dog will require prompt treatment.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

brussels griffon dogs - caringThe Brussels Griffon can choke easily so take care with the size of kibble you feed them. They need about one fourth to one half of a cup of high quality dry food that is designed for small or toy dogs. Divide this amount into two or three small meals per day. Puppies should be fed more often than adults but never feed just one large meal per day. Be careful that your Brussels Griffon does not become obese.

Health issues

The Brussels Griffon, regardless of type has some very serious health issues due to the shape of their heads.

Syringomyelia – extremely painful and fatal neurological disease.

Brachycephalic Syndrome – This can cause all the respiratory issues as well as eye issues such as cataracts and corneal ulcers.

Epilepsy - Seizures

Dental Disease – gum disease

Puppy Mortality – one of every four Brussels Griffon pupped die at birth.

Exercise and games

This is a very playful and energetic breed that needs at least some exercise every day. They love to play with their family. They are smart and easy to train. They love agility, obedience, barn hunt and tracking activities. You can just as effectively play with and exercise your Brussels inside as well as out.

Coat

basset bleu de gascogne dogs - caringWith his short coat, shedding isn’t a huge issue with the Basset Bleu. He sheds seasonally and then you will definitely have to brush him at least twice a week to get rid of all that loose hair.

Slobbering

Some dog owners don’t get used to the slobbering of these dogs. Certainly, you will need to change his drinking water often because of this slobbering of his. It can result in the water containing viruses and bacteria which can cause infections in your dog.

Exercise

These dogs tend to be lazy at home, so it will be up to you to see that he gets a good quota of exercise to prevent him becoming fat and prone to more illnesses. The backs, especially with added weight, can cause problems and this kind of dog shouldn’t be encouraged to jump off beds and couches.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Basset Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  2. Pharaoh Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  3. Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  4. Hungarian Vizsla vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  5. Redbone Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  6. Bluetick Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  7. Norwegian Elkhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  8. Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  9. Basset Fauve de Bretagne vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  10. Santal Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  11. Beagle-Harrier vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  12. English Coonhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  13. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Basenji - Breed Comparison
  14. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  15. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Bavarian Mountain Hound - Breed Comparison
  16. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie - Breed Comparison
  17. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Alpine Dachsbracke - Breed Comparison
  18. Podenco Canario vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  19. Dunker vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  20. Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  21. Chippiparai vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  22. Podenco Andaluz vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  23. Podenco Galego vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  24. English Foxhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  25. Estonian Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  26. Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  27. Morkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  28. Havanese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  29. Chorkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  30. Pekingese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  31. Chinese Crested Dog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  32. Chiweenie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  33. Chug vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  34. Brussels Griffon vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Brussels Griffon vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  36. Brussels Griffon vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  37. Chipoo vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  38. Chiapom vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  39. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  40. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  41. Russian Toy Terrier vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  42. Franzuskaya Bolonka vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  43. Phalene vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  44. Bugg vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  45. Cockachon vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  46. Shih Tzu vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  47. Silky Terrier vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  48. Snorkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  49. Toy Bulldog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  50. Toy Mi-Ki vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds