During the early 1800's, it was the custom for coachmen to keep small
terrier types as ratters in the stables, and such dogs of that period in
Belgium were Affenpinscher-like, known as Griffons d'Ecurier (wire-coated
stable dogs).
These dogs emanated from the German Affenpinscher and the Belgian street
dog. When or why other breeds were introduced can only be conjecture as the
stablemen were not detailed recordkeepers.
It is reasonably well documented that the Pug and the King Charles and the
Ruby Spaniels were crossed with the original Belgian dog.
From these crossings, two distinct types of coat emerge, the harsh-coated
bewhiskered rough, and the smooth coated Brabancon.
(Named in honor of the Belgian national anthem, La Brabonconne.)
Distinctive colors are also attributed to these crosses - the rich red
color; the black and tan color, and the solid black color.
The spaniel cross is also largely responsible for the facial characteristics
and impression,
which is so much a part of our present-day Brussels Griffon. No longer
finding much purpose as a stableworker,
the Brussels Griffon is a hearty, intelligent and active companion.
Our new little Sprucebug, aka "Bugsey"
Bugsey - 12 weeks old (Feb '08)
