Also known as the Belgian Griffon, the Petite Brabancon is a unique and outstanding dog breed that never goes unnoticed. These dogs are the result of programmed breedings that took place in different regions of Belgium and that searched for the perfect companion dog. Other uses for this dog were working, hunting and tracking of elements. There are registries of this dog for quite a long time and some experts sustain that the Petite Brabancon has been alongside humans for centuries. The Petite Brabancon is not officially recognized by the AKC but it counts with recognition from the CKC, the FCI, the NKC and the APRI, all of them truly important dog associations.
The Petite Brabancon is a small sized dog that usually measures 7 to 8 inches of height and 6 to 12 pounds of weight. It features a compact and rectangular shaped body with short legs and a docked tail. The head is quite large in comparison to the rest of the body, featuring a visible stop, small ears and a funny expression given by the bushy eyebrows and the beard. The Petite Brabancon can be found in two major types: the Rough Coated or the Smooth Coated. Of course, this gives you an idea of this dog's available coats. Either way, usual colors for this breed are red, red and brown, black, black and tan and others. Although this is a small dog, the muzzle and the feet are quite strong and this is related to the tasks for which this breed was originally created.
The temperament of the Petite Brabancon is quite peculiar. If we said that this dog never goes unnoticed for its appearance, it certainly does not go unnoticed for its temperament either. This is a dog that knows what it wants and that can certainly become quite stubborn. The Petite Brabancon is definitely intelligent and independent but it is also really important for it to establish a strong bond of love, devotion and affection with its masters. They are playful and really active dogs that should never be neglected or abandoned for too long. They are meant to become family dogs and will also get along well with other dogs and pets, especially if it has been early socialized to them. As most small breeds, the Petite Brabancon requires a firm leadership since they can sometimes display a mind of their own.
The Petite Brabancon features a life expectancy of around twelve and fifteen years. They are quite healthy dogs but there are some inherited diseases and complications that should be monitored and prevented. These dogs are perfect for apartment life as long as you provide them with all the proper exercise. A long daily walk will be the best to keep your Petite Brabancon healthy, fit and mentally stable. Finally, it is also important for you to keep a permanent control on your Petite Brabancon's coat and groom it constantly so as to prevent any hair or skin conditions that might become really serious with time.
