Understanding the Health and Care of your Brussels Griffon

Quick answer

The Brussels Griffon is a lively and affectionate companion that requires mindful management of its physical health. Because of their unique structure, these dogs are prone to specific issues involving their breathing, joints, and eyes. By maintaining a lean body condition, providing consistent training, and watching for early signs of discomfort, you can help your dog lead a comfortable and active life. Regular checkups are essential to catch these recognised breed tendencies before they impact your pet's quality of life.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion refers to an abnormal alignment of the teeth or the jaws. In this breed, the way the teeth meet can be irregular, which is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog has difficulty picking up toys, dropping food while eating, or showing signs of discomfort when their mouth is touched. Your vet will examine the alignment of the teeth and the closure of the jaw during routine physical exams. If the teeth are causing trauma to the soft tissues of the mouth, your vet may recommend dental intervention or extractions to prevent chronic pain and infection. It is important to monitor your dog's eating habits and report any sudden changes to your vet immediately.

Eye Problems

Brussels Griffons are prone to various eye conditions, and this is well recognised in the breed. Owners should watch for signs such as excessive tearing, squinting, redness, or a cloudy appearance in the eyes. If you notice your dog rubbing their face against furniture or pawing at their eyes, this is a sign of irritation that requires attention. A vet will perform a thorough examination, often using specialized stains to check for ulcers on the surface of the eye or measuring tear production. Early detection is vital to prevent permanent damage to vision. Keep the area around the eyes clean and free of debris to help reduce the risk of irritation.

Breathing Issues

As a brachycephalic breed, breathing issues are a well-recognised challenge for the Brussels Griffon. You might notice your dog makes snorting, snoring, or wheezing sounds, especially during exercise or when excited. These dogs can struggle to move enough air, which makes them highly sensitive to hot or humid weather. Your vet will assess your dog's airway during routine visits. If the breathing becomes labored or if your dog seems to struggle to catch their breath, this is an urgent situation that requires immediate veterinary assessment. Keeping your dog at a lean weight is the single most effective way to reduce the strain on their respiratory system.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might see your dog skip a step, hold a back leg up for a few seconds, or show a sudden, fleeting limp during a walk. The vet will physically manipulate the knee joint to check for instability. While some dogs live with mild luxation without significant pain, others may require surgical correction if the condition causes persistent lameness or discomfort. Providing traction on slippery floors at home can help prevent unnecessary stress on these joints.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, leading to wear and tear over time. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog is reluctant to jump, has difficulty rising after a nap, or shows a swaying gait in the hindquarters. The vet will use physical exams and diagnostic imaging to evaluate the health of the hip joints. While how this passes down is not settled, managing your dog's weight is critical to reducing the load on their hips. Your vet may suggest physical therapy or specific supplements to support joint health if signs of discomfort appear.