Have you ever seen an Ewok from Star Wars? You might have wondered if such lovable and quirky creatures exist. Well, in reality, we do have a dog breed that perfectly fits the bill – the Brussels Griffon. Often referred to as “Griffs,” these little fellas are notoriously famous for their distinct and heart-melting looks. But the big question is – are Brussels Griffons easy to train?
To understand the dynamics of training a Brussels Griffon, it’s essential to get to know more about them first. Raised initially in Brussels, Belgium, hence their name, these dogs were once known for defending stables from rodents. Today, their striking resemblance to Ewoks has catapulted them into the Hollywood limelight!
Griffs come with an eclectic mix of characteristics – intelligent, alert, sensitive, stubborn, and eternally comical. They’re known for their fantastic memory, high emotional intelligence and their ability to charm you to the moon and back. Therein lies the challenge of training a Brussels Griffon. However, despite these traits, training a “Griff” is not an impossible task, with the right guidance, patience, and, most importantly, lots of love.
Sure, you might need to try a bit harder than you would with some other breeds, but the rewards of successfully training a Brussels Griffon, we promise, are absolutely tantalizing.
Understanding Your Brussels Griffon
The first step towards successfully training any dog, especially a Brussels Griffon, is understanding its temperament. Brussels Griffons thrive on human companionship and can display varying levels of sensitivity. A loud harsh voice for reprimanding them? Uh-uh, no-no. It won’t work with a Griff. They could retreat into their own shell or even become stubborn, making it difficult for further training.
Training a Brussels Griffon – Early Beginnings
It’s an accepted fact that training dogs when they’re puppies is much easier than training grown-up dogs. The same holds true for Brussels Griffons. They are quick learners, and if you start the training at an early stage, you can set positive discipline rules from the get-go.
House training a Griff would mean potty training them first. Experts recommend using the crate training method for this breed. Griffs have this innate tendency to keep their living area clean, and this characteristic can play right into your hands during potty training. However, remember to take them out frequently, as their small bladders may not hold on for too long.
Leash Training: Challenge Accepted?
Brussels Griffons, in all their glory, are often suspicious of strangers and may even lunge unexpectedly. It’s where leash training comes into play. Start by getting them accustomed to the leash in a confined space, then gradually expose them to open environments, say your backyard.
Make sure the leash isn’t too tight or suffocating. Griffs have short noses and hence, may have trouble breathing. It’s always better to use a harness instead of a collar for a Griff.
The Magic of Positive Reinforcement
Griffs are emotionally intelligent. This means they understand and reciprocate to your feelings better than many other breeds. Use this to your advantage! Opt for a rewards-based training approach, also known as positive reinforcement. It involves offering your Griff a treat, additional playtime, or your affection when they follow a command correctly.
Be mindful that Brussels Griffons are prone to obesity. So, balance the number of treats you give with their daily meal and exercise schedule.
Brains and Brawn: The Balance
It’s not just about physical training; mental stimulation is equally important for a Brussels Griffon. They are bright pups and love a good challenge. You can use puzzle toys, interactive games, and even regular household items to engage in cognitive stimulation. This combination of mental and physical exercise can contribute to better behavior and easier training.
‘Obedience Training’ – A Big Yes!
Besides regular training, enrolling your Griff in obedience training classes can be a great step. The structured lessons, the discipline, socialization with other breeds, and exposure to different environments can result in a well-trained, well-behaved Griff.
Take it Slow and Steady – Persistence is Key
Brussels Griffons can sometimes be stubborn during training. That’s where your patience will be tested. Remember, every good thing takes time. Keep the training sessions short (15-20 minutes) and make them a part of your Griff’s daily routine. Eventually, they’ll catch on to the training and commands.
Caring for these exceptional pets is rewarding, especially when you witness their growth and successful training achievements. Training a Brussels Griffon is definitely worth the effort if you’re willing to put it in. Sure, it may take a little extra time, patience, and love, but isn’t that what owning a pet is all about? It’s the journey rather than the destination that makes it special, and training your Brussels Griffon would surely be a journey worth embarking upon.
