Longevity
Life expectancy
When it benefits from a suitable diet, good dental care, a stable weight and a lifestyle consistent with its size, this small dog can live a long time. Prevention is particularly useful to preserve its mobility, its eyes and its overall respiratory comfort.
Build
A robust breed?
Its robustness is adequate for a small-sized dog, with good tolerance to cold and humidity compared to many other companion dogs. On the other hand, its small build requires avoiding impacts, rough handling and poorly adapted exertion.
Watch points
What to watch for
Particular attention must be paid to the eyes, joints and development of the young dog. As in many small breeds, prevention involves the selection of breeding stock, maintaining an ideal weight and prompt consultation in the event of lameness, pain, eye irritation or neurological change.
Hydrocephalus : Neurological condition linked to an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the cavities of the brain, to be investigated quickly in a young dog showing suggestive signs.
Distichiasis and trichiasis : Eyelash abnormalities that can irritate the eye, cause tearing, discomfort and inflammation if they are not managed.
Luxations : Small joints can be fragile, with a risk of intermittent lameness or pain requiring a veterinary assessment.
Hip dysplasia : Rarer than in large breeds but described in the breed, it warrants attention to bloodlines and locomotion.
Skin allergies : Itching, redness or recurrent ear infections may suggest a skin sensitivity requiring appropriate management.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Griffon Bruxellois generally tolerates cool weather better than heat. In hot periods, outings should be shifted to the mildest hours, exertion limited, and access to water as well as to a shaded place ensured.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Even if it is not the breed most prone to being overweight, its small size does not forgive repeated excesses. A precisely measured ration, limited treats and regular daily activity are the best levers to preserve its joints and its comfort.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Check the eyes regularly and consult if there is tearing or irritation.
- Maintain a healthy weight to limit strain on the joints.
- Monitor any limping, skipping a leg, or unusual stiffness.
- Schedule regular veterinary check-ups and oral-dental follow-up.
Vaccination
Brussels Griffon vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Brussels Griffon? Like all cats, the Brussels Griffon receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Brussels Griffon is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Brussels Griffon vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Brussels Griffon?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Brussels Griffon
Before breeding or acquisition, it is relevant to inquire about the orthopedic and ophthalmological monitoring of the lines. On a daily basis, regular veterinary check-ups, an oral and dental examination, and monitoring for signs of pain or ocular irritation are recommended.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
