Medium
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a small Belgian toy breed with a big personality and a distinctly human-like expression. The breed comes in two coat varieties: the Rough-coated Griffon (wiry, harsh outer coat) and the Smooth-coated Griffon (short and close-lying). The rough coat requires hand stripping to maintain correct texture for the show ring, while clipping is accepted for pet dogs.
Coat Type
Rough (Wiry) or Smooth — two separate coat varieties
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
5 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Hand Strip (Rough Coat)
Dead outer coat is removed by hand or with a stripping knife to maintain the wiry, harsh texture. The correct technique for show dogs.
2
Clippered Pet Trim
The rough coat is clipped rather than stripped. Produces a softer coat texture over time but is far more practical for pet owners.
3
Natural Rough Coat
The rough coat is tidied with scissors and light hand stripping around the face to preserve the monkey-like expression without full strip work.
4
Smooth Standard
The smooth-coated variety requires only regular bathing and brushing with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush — minimal trimming needed.
5
Summer Cut
Short clip all over for warm weather. Practical for rough-coated dogs in hot climates.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- There are two distinct coat types in the breed — confirm rough or smooth before planning a grooming approach.
- Hand stripping the rough coat maintains the wiry texture and depth of color; clipping softens both the texture and the color permanently.
- The distinctive monkey-like face expression relies on careful scissoring and shaping of the beard and eyebrows — this area requires skill.
- Rough-coated Griffons are stripped approximately twice yearly in the show schedule; pet dogs can be stripped every 3-4 months.
- The smooth-coated Griffon is among the lowest-maintenance grooming breeds — a bath and brush every few weeks is typically sufficient.
- Clean facial folds daily with a damp cloth — the Griffon's flat face can harbor moisture and bacteria in skin folds.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
BrushAn excellent entry-level brush that's easy to clean. Great for removing loose fur and detangling shorter coats.
$15 - $25
Mars Coat King Undercoat Rake
BrushThe ultimate tool for double-coated breeds. Strips dead undercoat without damaging the guard hairs.
$40 - $60
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Deep Dives
Brussels Griffon Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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