English Toy Griffon -- King Charles Spaniel X Brussels Griffon

		English Toy Griffon
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Great Britain <> Belgium -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the English Toy Griffon

Energetic, intelligent and affectionate all describe the charming toy breed hybrid known as the English Toy Griffon. This hybrid is a mix of the Brussels Griffon and the King Charles Spaniel, both of which are loyal little dogs. This hybrid can be considered low-maintenance in terms of grooming, but they are playful little guys and will be best suited to an active home with other pets. Unfortunately, they are not recommended for households with children due to their aggressive behavior.

History of the English Toy Griffon

The popularity of specific dog breeds has increased in recent times, leading to the development of many new types of dog. The history of the English Toy Griffon begins with the creation of the parent breeds.

	A little of the King Charles Spaniel
	The King Charles Spaniel originated in Asia. In the early 16th century, the ancestors of these dogs, most probably Japanese Spaniels and Pekingese, were brought from Europe to Japan. Some works of art of the King Charles Spaniel were introduced at this time, where they were often used as guard dogs for royalty. The breed's popularity spread to Europe in the 17th century, and eventually to England. They were favorites of King Charles I and King Charles II, often roaming freely throughout the palace. This is also how they got their English name of King Charles Spaniel. These dogs were well known in Britain, even during the Stuart dynasty. However, the Revolution of 1688 was a more difficult period for the breed. These dogs were mixed with the Pug when William and Mary of Orange claimed the throne. The addition to the ancestry radically changed their physical appearance compared to those depicted in ancient works of art.

	Standard of the King Charles Spaniel
	A little of the Brussels Griffon
	The Brussels Griffon is a small-breed dog that traces its roots back to Brussels, Belgium. Breeding began with the Griffon d'Ecurie (écurie being French for stable), a robust, spirited breed that worked stalls and stables in search of vermin. These breeds probably share ancestors with the Affenpinscher, Yorkshire Terrier and King Charles Spaniel. In 1910, this breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club as a toy breed, with varieties divided into rough and smooth coats. Still as spirited today as they were in their hunting days, they are a relatively rare breed.

	Standard of the Brussels Griffon

Appearance of the English Toy Griffon

As a hybrid, the English Toy Griffon can bear a strong resemblance to either of its parent breeds. In general, they tend to have a flatter face and rounded skull like the parent Griffon bruxellois. They may have an overbite (common to the Griffon bruxellois breed) or an underbite (as seen in the King Charles Spaniel). The eyes tend to be round and alert, and the ears can be semi-sloped or fully drooped down with a little feathering. Since both parents are toy breeds, this hybrid may have thick, broad, almost square bones. If your hybrid takes on more Brussels Griffon traits, it will probably have a rougher, stiffer coat with very little feathering, and may also have the iconic "monkey face" appearance. However, if your hybrid adopts more of the characteristics of the King Charles Spaniel, then it may have a soft, glossy coat with thicker feathers.

Temperament of the English Toy Griffon

The English Toy Griffon is a gentle, loyal and exuberant breed that's always up for a good game. These dogs make excellent pets, but require an active family. The parent breed, the Brussels Griffon, is often not considered a "child-friendly" breed, as it can be quite irritating if pestered too much. Similarly, the King Charles Spaniel also has a tendency to get upset with children, and because of this possibility, it's likely that your hybrid won't be well suited to a home with children. Nevertheless, these breeds can be easy to train and if they are well socialized with children, they can learn to tolerate them. What's more, children need to learn to know when a dog might be irritated. This hybrid can often do well with other pets in a household when introduced correctly. When meeting strangers, your English Toy Griffon can be shy and reserved, or curious enough to overcome hesitation.

Needs and activities of the English Toy Griffon

The English Toy Griffon is a very energetic breed, as both parent breeds are very lively, sometimes tireless and always playful. Your hybrid will need regular short walks, perhaps some errands, time at the dog park and lots of play time with toys. They tend to do well in apartments because of their size, and can be quite laid-back, relaxed and even lazy when they want to be. However, they are best suited to active households and will adapt better to a busy day so they can cuddle up and watch a movie in the evening. Earth dog trials and obedience classes can be just what your English Toy Griffon needs to be satisfied.

Maintenance of the English Toy Griffon

Only the Brussels Griffon is considered a hypoallergenic dog, so if your hybrid takes on a coat similar to the Brussels Griffon, you may have a hypoallergenic dog. This is not certain, however, so you need to be careful when selecting your puppy if there are allergies in the family. Hybrids can require minimal care in the maintenance department. A weekly brushing with a pin brush and a run through tangles with a comb may be all that's needed to pick up dirt and loose hair. They will need regular ear cleaning if their ears resemble those of the King Charles Spaniel, as the fur and feathers on the ears could reduce airflow into the ear. Like all dogs, they will need regular teeth cleaning and nail trimming.

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English Toy Griffon -- King Charles Spaniel X Brussels Griffon