Who would have imagined that a little pooch sporting a “beard” and weighing hardly 10 pounds would be described as protective and observant! Maybe it’s hard for you to picture it, but it’s true! Our little four-legged contestant today is none other than the Brussels Griffon, the underrated guardian of the household.
Despite its toy-like appearance, the Brussels Griffon is more than just an accessory to flaunt at dog shows. In reality, this breed has a history rooted in hard work and devotion, traits that make it more than qualified to look after your household. But how is that possible? How can such a small creature protect you or your property, you might wonder.
Every dog breed has a unique story that’s intertwined with its evolution and the tasks it’s been bred to perform, which is why we need to travel back in time, to the streets of Brussels, to answer this question better.
So, pull up a chair, grab your favorite beverage, and buckle up as we dive into the world of Brussels Griffon and discover whether it has what it takes to be a guard dog.
This breed initially came into existence during the 1800s in Brussels, Belgium. Their primary role was to keep stables free from rats and other pests, a task for which their small stature and determined nature were perfectly suited. So inherently, the Brussels Griffon is a working breed, full of energy and sprightly vigour. Their keen sense of sight and sound made them excellent ratters and observers, as did their quick reflexes and high agility.
When they were not scampering through the stables hunting rats, the Brussels Griffon would alert their owners to any strangers or unfamiliar happenings around the property. This involved an excellent sense of observation and a firm loyalty towards their owners. And so, while they didn’t tackle intruders directly due to their size, they made exceptional alarm dogs.
However, being an alarm dog isn’t the same as being a guard dog, right? Sure, alarm dogs alert you about anything unusual, but can they protect you or your property physically?
That’s a good question, and the short answer is – not really. While Brussels Griffons are fierce when it comes to sounding the alarm, their size makes them less than optimal for physical defense. But true guarding isn’t just about physical aggression, is it?
An essential function of guard dogs is to deter possible threats, and the Brussels Griffon does an excellent job at that. Their sharp bark is enough to alert anyone at home and even scare off some timid intruders. However, what this breed lacks in physical prowess, it makes up for in loyalty, courage, and a big watchdog heart.
Now you’re probably thinking, “That’s all excellent and good for a 19th-century stable, but what about my modern home?” Well, not to worry, as the Brussels Griffon is perfectly adapted for current domestic situations!
If you’re living in an apartment or a small house, a Brussels Griffon will be more manageable as they require less space for physical exercise, unlike larger dogs. Their size and temperament make them suitable for urban life. They become emotionally attached to their owners, meaning they’re less likely to wander off and are always alert about happenings around their favorite humans.
Also, if you have children or other pets, the Brussels Griffon, with its sociable nature, can be an excellent fit for your family. Trainability is another key factor that makes this breed an excellent choice for any household. With a firm, consistent training approach focusing on positive reinforcement techniques, you can easily train your Brussels Griffon to watch over your household effectively.
However, they’re pretty sensitive, so be sure to adopt a gentle training approach. Shouting or punishing can make them stubborn or anxious and can hinder their learning process.
Communicating with your dog is very important. You need to understand your dog’s instincts and communicate your needs effectively. Therefore, verbal training and maintaining a calm environment are paramount for the Brussels Griffon.
Should you consider a Brussels Griffon a guard dog? Well, if we take traditional physical defense out of the equation and focus on loyalty, alertness, and courage, then they definitely fit the description!
In conclusion, the Brussels Griffon, though small and toylike in appearance, can serve as a good watchdog. No, they won’t fight off intruders, but they will alert you with their brilliant senses. They’re loyal, hardworking, and highly trainable, making them an excellent canine companion. So if it’s a faithful alarm system, a loving family member, and a courageous heart you’re after, you need not look further than a Brussels Griffon!
