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Irish Red and White Setter

The Irish Red and White Setter is a striking breed known for its unique appearance and friendly temperament. With their distinctive red and white coat, these dogs are not only beautiful but also highly energetic and affectionate companions. In the Philippines, the popularity of the Irish Red and White Setter dog is on the rise, as more people recognize their playful nature and suitability for active families.

Irish Red and White Setter puppies are often sought after for their friendly disposition and intelligence. They thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities, making them ideal pets for families who enjoy outdoor adventures. This breed is known for its loyalty and eagerness to please, making training a rewarding experience. 

As the breed continues to gain traction in the Philippines, prospective owners should seek reputable breeders who prioritize health and temperament, ensuring a positive experience with these wonderful dogs. Understanding the specific needs of the Irish Red and White Setter will help owners provide a fulfilling and happy life for their new furry friends. 

Living Considerations
Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
Size
Large
Height
62 to 66 centimetres for males, 57 to 61 centimetres for females
Weight
22.5 to 34 kilograms
Coat
Medium/Long - Feathered
Energy
Active
Colour
Mahogany or rich chestnut red
Activities
Hunting, tracking, retrieving, agility, obedience, conformation
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Personality

The Irish Red and White Setter is known for its friendly and sociable nature. They are affectionate with their families and get along well with children and other pets. Their playful and energetic demeanor makes them entertaining companions. 

History and Origins

This breed has a rich history, originating in Ireland as a hunting dog. The Irish Red and White Setter was developed in the 17th century, primarily used for hunting game birds. They were recognized for their ability to work in various terrains and conditions. 

Nutrition and Feeding

A balanced diet is essential for the health of Irish Red and White Setters. High-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is crucial. Owners should monitor their food intake to maintain a healthy weight and provide fresh water daily. 

Exercise

Irish Red and White Setters are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities to run and explore are essential to satisfy their energetic nature and prevent boredom. 

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

As with many breeds, the Irish Red and White Setter can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. They can also be prone to gastrointestinal disorders.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Ibizan Hound (Short/smooth coat)

Characterized by his tall, lean body, long tail and large, upright ears, the Ibizan Hound is an elegant Egyptian sighthound bred to hunt rabbits. This athletic, agile breed is known for his ability to jump six feet in the air from a standstill. Alert, affectionate and loyal, the Ibizan Hound is suitable for families with children. These hounds require vigorous daily exercise in a sizeable high-fenced area.

DID YOU KNOW? In 1922, historians discovered King Tut’s tomb and found the life-size statue of Anubis, who was known as the “Watchdog of the Dead.” The statue was identical to the modern Ibizan Hound. The Ibizan Hound is named for the Spanish island of Ibiza, where the breed was brought over by Phoenician sea traders in 3400 B.C. to hunt rabbits for food

ALSO KNOWN AS: Ca Eivissenc, Podenco Ibicenco, Ibizan Warren Hound

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Large dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Living Considerations
Suitable for children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living
Size
Medium
Height
Males – 60 to 70 centimetres at the withers, Females – 57 to 66 centimetres at the withers
Weight
Males – 22.5 kilograms, Females – 20.5 kilograms
Coat
Short or wirehaired
Energy
High
Colour
White or red (solid or a combination)Activities
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Personality

This is a very affectionate, sensitive breed. They are wonderfully loyal and make a good pet in the right home. However, this is not a breed for the fainthearted: they can be fairly vocal and adore company – this is not a breed that can be left for long hours.

History and Origins

This breed is truly a living piece of history. The Ibizan Hound dog breed can trace its roots back to 4,000BC and beyond. Mostly associated with the time of the Great Pharaohs, the breed is depicted on many friezes, with the most notable icon being the Anubis. It would be true to say that the breed has not really changed in many thousands of years. Phoenician traders took the Ibizan Hound to the Balearic Islands, and to this day they can be found still working in Spain and its surrounding islands.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

These dogs require lots of exercise – a couple of hours daily for adults. Once on the scent of game, they will run and run, so a reliable recall is essential and they should be exercised in safe areas with no traffic risks or other dangers.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The Ibizan Hound dog breed is generally hardy with few widely recognised health problems. Some neurological conditions are reported but do not appear to be common.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla

The Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla is a distinguished and versatile breed that has gained attention among dog lovers in the Philippines. Known for its unique wiry coat, the Wirehaired Vizsla is characterized by its strong, athletic build and friendly demeanor. 

This breed is highly regarded for its intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for families and active individuals.

Originally bred in Hungary for hunting and retrieving, the Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla is a skilled companion in various outdoor activities including 

  • Hunting
  • Tracking
  • Agility sports

In the Philippines, they thrive in environments where they can engage in physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their affectionate nature makes them great companions, especially for families with children. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their distinctive coat and prevent matting. 

Overall, the Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla is a loving and energetic dog that can bring joy and companionship to any household.

Personality

The Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla is known for its friendly and affectionate personality. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable. Their gentle nature ensures they get along well with children and other pets. 

History and Origins

This breed originated in Hungary, where it was developed as a versatile hunting dog. The Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla is a result of breeding smooth-coated Vizslas with other breeds to create a dog suited for hunting in various terrains, particularly in harsh weather conditions.

Nutrition and Feeding

A balanced diet is crucial for the Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla's health. High-quality dog food formulated for active breeds is recommended, along with regular feeding schedules. Portion control is important to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.

Exercise

Hungarian Wire Haired Vizslas are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential to keep them physically fit and engaged. They enjoy activities that challenge their intelligence and energy levels.

Other Information

Generally, Hungarian Wire Haired Vizslas are healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain genetic conditions. 

Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care are vital for their overall well-being. Their wiry coat requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition and to prevent matting. 

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Hungarian Vizsla

A robust, noble-looking, medium-sized dog. Known for their affectionate natures and high energy levels, Hungarian Vizslas make perfect dogs for active families.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
10–14 years
Weight:
20–30kg
Height:
53–64cm
Colours:
The short, dense coat is smooth and comes in an eye-catching reddish-gold colour
Size:
Medium
Kennel Club group:
Gundog
Personality

A larger-than-life character, the Hungarian Vizsla makes a fun, lively, loving companion for those who can give him the time and attention he needs. A sensitive dog, they enjoy being active and learning new things and revel in training, provided it is fun and rewarding. They can be naturally protective of their family and as they bond so closely to their beloved owner, they hate to be left alone.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Hungary

There is no doubt this is an old breed - but just how old has been the subject of many arguments. They are in size and shape very similar to the Weimaraner but with different colouring - and some say that the Vizsla was a cross between the Weimaraner and various pointers as recently as the 20th century. Hungarian breeders however maintain that it is the other way round and that there are records of Vizslas dating from the 11th and 12th century when they would hunt with Magyars and their falcons. In all likelihood this is the correct version of events and the Vizsla has been helping Hungarian hunters for hundreds of years - although when the breed struggled to survive in the early part of the 20th century, pointers were introduced to strengthen the stock and ensure their survival.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Hungarian Vizsla needs at least two hours of active daily exercise a day. As you'd expect, given their hunt, point and retrieve background, retrieve games (on land and in water) are popular with them, and they do need plenty of off-lead free running and exploring.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The Hungarian Vizsla is generally a healthy breed. The most common breed specific problems are a swallowing disorder and epilepsy.

Space Requirements

Like most gundogs, Hungarian Vizslas do not do well in urban environments. They are large, active, country dogs that need space both inside and out.

Training Hungarian Vizslas

Hungarian Vizlas enjoy working with their owners and will enjoy training as long as it is fun and rewarding. They can reach a high standard of obedience and can happily compete in dog sports such as agility - but will sometimes have unexpected moments of apparent deafness when something exciting like a squirrel catches their eye! As such, training a good recall is important.

Best Family Dog Breeds

Hungarian Vizslas can make great dogs for active families with older children who love the great outdoors and plenty of walking. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did You Know?

  • Known as dogs who originally hunted alongside falcons, it is said that they still have a natural affinity for birds of prey.
  • Hungarian Vizslas are known to be very clingy dogs and will follow their owner absolutely everywhere.
  • They’re one of the top 10 fastest dog breeds and can run up to 40mph.
  • Vizslas are incredible swimmers and have webbed feet! They don’t have an undercoat though so make sure you don’t take them swimming when it’s cold.
  • Vizsla means ‘pointer’ but in Hungarian it also means ‘beagle’, ‘retriever’ and ‘deerhound’.
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Hungarian Puli

The Puli dog is easily recognised by his trademark coat - long cords, sometimes reaching the ground in length. They can be black, rusty black, white or various shades of apricot and grey in colour. Beneath the coat, this is a sturdy and muscular breed. Adult stand at 40-44cm and weigh 13-15kg; adult females are 37-41cm and weigh 10-13kg.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Personality

Lively and animated, Pulis have a tendency to bond with one member of the family. They are friendly, although they will announce visitors at the door and be somewhat reserved with them. They can be stubborn but are quick to learn in training.

History and Origins

The Magyars, one of the many tribes of nomadic Huns that migrated to Eastern Europe, brought Pulis to their native land in the 9th century. These dogs were used to herd and protect their flocks. Over the years they were bred for their ability to work and soon became established in other countries. Today the puli dog breed has adapted to town living as well as working and living in the countryside.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

Energetic by nature, the Puli breed needs a reasonable amount of exercise – at least an hour a day for an adult, preferably more - and they are in their element if given free-running time to romp and play.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The Hungarian Puli is a relatively healthy, hardy breed. However as with many breeds they can suffer from hereditary eye disorders and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Hungarian Kuvasz

This is a large, powerful, noble-looking breed. Adult males are 71-75cm in height and weigh 40-52kg and adult females are 66-70cm tall and weigh 30-42kg. The thick double coat is pure white and the skin has patches of grey.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Heavy drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Personality

Bred as a guarding breed for centuries, the Kuvasz is naturally protective of his home and loved ones and is suspicious of strangers. He is gentle and loyal to his family but needs a home where the owners are experienced with guarding breeds and where his specialist needs can be met.

History and Origins

The Hungarian Kuvasz dog breed is an ancient breed. Indeed, archaeologists have found the skeleton of a similar type of dog in Hungary dating back to the 9th century. Used by the nomadic Magyar to protect their flocks, the Kuvasz worked in sometimes harsh conditions, in the mountain regions of the country. In the 15th century, the breed became fashionable among the nobility, due to its popularity with King Matthias Corvinus, who gave Kuvasz pups as royal gifts, but the breed's chief role, throughout its history, has been as a hardworking flock guard.

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Kuvasz is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

The Kuvasz enjoys nothing better than patrolling his property's boundaries and being alert to any 'threats'. He needs a very large, well-fenced garden, and will also need to be taken out for an hour's daily exercise, too.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The Kuvasz dog breed is generally a healthy and robust breed, but as with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Hovawart

A large, powerful dog with a medium/long coat, the Hovawart is a little longer that he is tall. Dogs are noticeably masculine and females feminine. Adult males stand at 63-70cm and weigh 30-40kg and females are 58-65cm tall and weigh 25-35kg. The weather-resistant coat comes in black, blonde or black and gold.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Personality

A confident, brave and versatile dog, the Hovawart is a loyal, devoted companion dog. He has strong guarding tendencies and is protective of his home and family, so early socialisation is essential, but he is generally a tolerant, even-tempered character.

History and Origins

This German breed was bred to guard livestock, farms and even castles in the Middle Ages. Sadly, the Hovawart dog breed died out but was recreated by a zoologist called Dr Konig after World War One. He found Hovawart-like dogs in the Harz and Black Forest areas where the breed was originally found and bred them to the German Shepherd, the Hungarian Kuvasz, Newfoundland, Leonberger and other similar breeds, until the breed matched that found in old drawings.

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs.

Exercise

A large, energetic dog, the Hovawart needs two hours or more of daily exercise. He enjoys long walks and tracking, and can also be trained to high levels in obedience and working trials.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

As with many breeds, the Hovawart can suffer from hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) occurs more commonly in the breed.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Havanese

The only native breed of Cuba, the Havanese is a happy,outgoing dog with a friendly disposition. Originally, this sturdy toy breed was a pampered lap dog of the aristocracy. Later, his role evolved into that of a family companion, watchdog, child’s playmate, and poultry herder. With his intelligence, trainability and affectionate, nonaggressive temperament, the Havanese is an ideal family dog. The breed’s hypoallergenic coat does not shed but requires regular grooming.

DID YOU KNOW? The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Havanese Cuban Bichon, Youcef Sorry, Bichon Havanês, Havaneser, Havanezer, Bichon Habanero

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • Great with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
13-15 years
Weight:
3-6kg
Height:
23-28cm tall
Colours:
Any colour or combination of colours is accepted, except merles
Size:
Small
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Toy
Personality

The Havanese is an affectionate, intelligent little dog, ideally suited to the role of family companion. They are described as friendly and outgoing, with a cheerful nature and attractive appearance.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Cuba

The Havanese is a member of the Bichon family, which includes the Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Coton De Tulear, Lowchen and Maltese.

Their ancestors from the Mediterranean area accompanied traders across the globe and were sold and gifted to those who valued small, luxuriously coated, companion dogs as a symbol of wealth and status. Such was true of the Havanese who was very popular in Cuba with high-status families, right up until Castro’s Communist regime in 1959 when such trappings of wealth of any kind fell out of favour.

Saved by the efforts of Cuban refugees living in the US, American breeders founded the Havanese Club of America to protect the future of the breed.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide.

Exercise

The Havanese will need about half an hour of dog exercise daily, and whilst that can be provided on occasion with games and training indoors and in the garden, a variety of interesting daily walks will satisfy the mind as well as the body. A companion breed, the Havanese will enjoy spending time with their owner no matter what they are doing, or where they are going.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

Like many small breeds, the Havenese can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas). As with many breeds there are some hereditary eye problems that can arise and so breeding dogs should be regularly eye tested.

Space Requirements

As long as you have space to groom a Havanese, and a garden to play and train in safely, they do not need a huge or expansive home. Access to a variety of interesting walks will make keeping a Havanese happy and fulfilled relatively easy. Suitable for all locations.

Training Havanese

The Havanese is small, but mighty – perfectly capable of high levels of dog training and taking part in a variety of dog sports and competitions! Exercise their minds as well as their brains for a happy, satisfied Havanese. They will do well in mini agility, trick training competitions, heelwork to music, anything you can think of really. This is a lapdog with ambition and ability to do much much more. This, however, is breed that does not like to be left alone.

Best Family Dog Breeds

The Havanese is an excellent family dog – as long as their appealing looks do not lead to them being thought of as a ‘toy’ or plaything. Also ensure that you have the time to attend to their exercise, training and grooming needs alongside family commitments. Older children and teenagers may enjoy taking part in walking and training the Havanese and their cheerful nature makes them an excellent friend. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did You Know?

  • Havanese have long been popular with the rich and famous, from Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens, to Venus Williams, Susan Sarandon, Jane Fonda and Jennifer Love Hewitt. The popularity of this still relatively rare breed cannot be called a modern trend!
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Hamiltonstovare

A smart-looking, strong, medium/large hound who is longer than he is tall, the Hamiltonstovare has a short, close-lying tricolour coat (black, tan and white). Adult male dogs are 53-61cm tall and adult females 49-57cm tall. They weigh 23-27kg.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Personality

A good-tempered hound, the Hamilton dog breed makes an affectionate companion, provided he can fulfil his hunting instincts. A country-loving dog, he will follow his nose for miles, so a reliable recall is essential – as well as escape-proof fencing in your garden. They love people and are gentle, but can be a little too boisterous and bouncy for a home with toddlers.

History and Origins

The Hamiltonstovare dog breed is one of the most popular hound breeds in his native Sweden. He was developed in the late 19th century by one of the founders of the Swedish Kennel Club, Count Adolf Hamilton, after whom he takes his name. The breeds that go into his make-up are the Foxhound, Harrier and various German hounds (including the Holsteiner, the long-legged Curland Hound, and the Heidebracke). He doesn't work in a pack, unlike other hounds, but hunts singly or in pairs, flushing fox and hare for the gunsman.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

This is not a dog that will be happy with a quick walk around the block twice a day – an active, energetic dog, the Hamiltonstovare needs at least two hours' daily exercise, preferably off-lead in a safe area so he can run and sniff to his heart's content. If bored or underexercised, he will understandably become destructive and dig, chew and bark to amuse himself.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The Hamiltonstovare is generally a healthy, robust breed with no widely recognised breed specific health problems.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Griffon Bruxellois (Short/rough coat)

The Griffon Bruxellois dog breed comes in two types: rough- or smooth-coated. The distinctive feature of a Griffon is its Pug-like face. The nose is quite short and turned up. Large, prominent eyes are another Pug-like feature as is the undershot jaw. This has led some people to liken the Griffon dog face to a monkey. This dog comes in red, black, or black and tan. Adults measure 18-20cm and weigh 2-5kg.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Personality

The Griffon dog is not suggested as a companion for children, as their sometimes rough play can be misconstrued and make the dog fearful and unpredictable around children. Griffons can be stubborn but they are quick to learn and have been trained to do very well in various dog sports. They like to be close to their owner and can be destructive if left alone for long periods of time.

History and Origins

The Griffon Bruxellois is a Belgian breed that was created in the 19th century by crossing Affenpinschers, Pugs and Belgian stable dogs. Hansom cab drivers needed a small, intelligent dog to guard their cabs and dispense with vermin in the stables. The toughness of the street dogs, mixed with the cleverness of the Affenpinschers, proved useful to the cab drivers. Later, English Toy Spaniels were bred in to create an almost human-like face for the Griffon dog and possibly some Yorkshire Terrier was added into the mix.

Nutrition and Feeding

Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

Exercise

Active and with a terrier streak, the Griffon dog breed does like a good run but will adapt happily to life in a flat. As a minimum, he needs about half an hour's daily exercise.

Other Information

Health and Common Issues

The breed does not have many specific health problems, but as with other breeds of dogs with a relatively flat face, they can be prone to breathing difficulties and eye problems. Like many small breeds, they can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas). An inherited spinal disorder is recognised in the breed and breeding dogs should therefore be screened for this.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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