“Have you ever wondered how “Brillo pad” dogs keep their distinctive looks? Or whether their woolly coats are a shedding nightmare? Well, the mystery stops here as we spill the beans on the shedding secrets of the Brussels Griffon. This charismatic Belgian breed, with its signature scruffy charm and highly expressive face, is a treasure trove of untold stories!
Brussels Griffons, fondly known as Griff’s, were historically renowned as watchdogs in horse stables back in the 1800s. They may be petite in size, but they boast a lofty personality reminiscent of a much larger canine.
Before delving deeper, let’s debunk a common myth. Contrary to popular thought, all dogs shed to some extent. Yes, even ‘non-shedding’ breeds like Poodles cannot escape the inevitable process of hair growth and shedding. Understanding this can save a lot of heartache (and vacuuming!) for potential dog owners.
So, does our Brussels Griffon fall into the heavy shedder’s category, or are they as ‘non-shedding’ as popular myths claim?
The truth is, there isn’t a straight answer. This breed comes in two types based on the kind of coat they possess: the smooth-coated or “Brabancon” and the rough-coated. The key to unlocking the shedding mystery depends on which category your Brussels Griffon fits into.
Let’s explore these categories in depth:
1. Smooth-Coated or “Brabancon” Griffon: These Griffon’s have a shiny, short, and straight coat. The ease that comes with maintaining this coat is immensely popular among dog owners. But beware, this flashy coat comes with a price. It sheds a lot. Yes, you heard it right; minimal grooming, but more shedding! Although it isn’t as much as, say, a Golden Retriever, it’s still considerable.
2. Rough-Coated Griffon: Now, this is where we hit the jackpot of low shedding. The rough coated Griffon’s have a dense, wiry, and longer coat that can easily be mistaken for a no-shed zone. These Griffs shed comparatively less than their smooth-coated counterparts. However, as mentioned earlier, don’t expect a completely hair-free household with them.
So, what does all this mean for you as a potential owner?
Firstly, if you (or any family members) have allergies, exercising caution is recommended before adopting a Griffon. While the rough-coated types are more hypoallergenic, no dog breed is 100% allergy-proof.
Secondly, grooming needs differ for both varieties. A smooth-coated Griffon requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and maintain the coat’s glossiness. On the flip side, a rough-coated Griffon calls for a rigorous grooming routine. Their wiry coat needs hand-stripping two to three times a year to keep them looking their scruffy best. Despite their minimal shedding, failure to groom properly could turn into an itchy and uncomfortable nightmare for your pooch.
Overall, be it the smooth-coated shedders or the minimally shedding rough-coated Griff’s, the Brussels Griffon’s charm is hard to resist. If you are willing to handle some shedding or intensive grooming, they make an energetic and delightful addition to any family.
Remember, every hair shed is a symbol of your little pal’s trust and love for you. It’s all a part of the package of owning these heartwarming creatures. So, think of each hair you vacuum as a token of affection from your Griffon. They surely seem like a worthy tradeoff, don’t they?
As a dog-parent-to-be or an intrigued dog lover, we hope you enjoyed this shedding secret revelation. Next time you come across a Brussels Griffon, you’ll be armed with more than just ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ over their distinctive allure. You’ll also have the lowdown on their shedding ways, ready to pass on to the next baffled enthusiast!”
