Brussels Griffon vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison

Brussels Griffon vs Australian Bulldog - Breed ComparisonBrussels Griffon is originated from Belgium but Australian Bulldog is originated from Australia. Brussels Griffon may grow 30 cm / 11 inches shorter than Australian Bulldog. Brussels Griffon may weigh 29 kg / 63 pounds lesser than Australian Bulldog. Both Brussels Griffon and Australian Bulldog has same life span. Brussels Griffon may have less litter size than Australian Bulldog. Both Brussels Griffon and Australian Bulldog requires Moderate maintenance.

History

brussels griffon - historyThe Brussels Griffon is one of the three different types of Griffons. There is the Belgian, the Petit, and the Brussels Griffon. “Griffon” means wiry and the Brussels Griffon lives up to that moniker. The Brussels Griffon’s coat is longer than that of the Belgian Griffon and the Petit Brabanon (Griffon) has a smooth, short coat. The breed is probably originally developed by crossing Belgian street dogs with the Affenpinsher as early in the 1800’s. They were favored by the cabbies in Brussels as guard dogs. They were also bred to hunt rats. Sometime toward the end of the 19th century, the Griffon was again crossed this time with a pug. This accounts for the type of head that the Brussels Griffon has, namely a brachycephalic head. It also accounts for the smooth coat of the Petit Griffon. The modern-day Griffon may also have been crossed at some time with one or more of these breeds: the English Toy Spaniel, the Irish Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier.

By 1880, the breed was recognized and appeared in the Brussels Exhibition of 1880. They were also found in paintings of the same era by the Flemish painter, Van Eyck. In the beginning of the 20th century, the breed was extremely popular with the nobility in Belgium. As with so many other breeds, the number of Brussels Griffon was greatly reduced during the First World War. It did not take them long however to make a comeback after the war. Their popularity then spread around the globe.

The European FCI considers the Brussels Griffon, the Belgian Griffon and the Petit Brabancon (Griffon) to be three separate breeds with no interbreeding among them. They are shown as three separate breeds in Europe, with the difference between the Belgian and Brussels being the accepted colors. The Brussels is only red in color while the Belgium Griffon can be in all other colors. In the United States the three types of Griffons are considered one breed with three varieties. Only the Brussels Griffon is recognized by the AKC. The difference in coat and color make for the different varieties in the U.S.

australian bulldog - historyThe Australian Bulldog was bred from several breeds: The Bullmastiff, English bulldog, the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the Boxer. You will notice that his appearance is quite similar to the English bulldog, but this breed has a less-squished muzzle, fewer wrinkles and longer legs. They have great strength with a good thickness of the bone. They are solid and compact breed with good muscle tone.

The head structure of an Aussie Bulldog is one of its main attributes. It is very strong, square shaped with depth and width of muzzle less than a general bulldog. They have some wrinkle across the nose. Eyes are wide apart, large and clean. The jaw is wide and square, with strong teeth.

The name Australian Bulldog was given by Noel and Tina Green, the founders of the breed. They introduced Australian Bulldog to the public in 1998.

Description

brussels griffon puppy - descriptionAll three types of Griffons are toy size dogs with short, thick bodies and distinctive brachycephalic heads. Regardless of coat color their muzzles and whiskers are black, and they have large eyes, also black, a mustache and beard. They have black eyelashes and a nose that is very black. All this is set against their red, beige, black or black and tan coat. Their forehead is dome shaped and the muzzle is short. The breed has small ears that are high up on the dog’s head. The ears might be cropped in the United States but would not be in Europe. The lower jaw is prominent and the jaw itself is undershot. They have black toenails and pads, with strong and muscular hind legs. The Griffon has a docked, high set tail in the U.S. and a full tail in Europe and all of the United Kingdom.

The rough coated types have a dense and wiry coat and the standard encourages the hardest possible wire coat. Their heads are also wiry and long around the chin, cheeks, nose and eyes. They should be hand-stripped and never left ungroomed. The coat can matt if not taken care of adequately. One of the most important features of the Brussels Griffon is its human like face or monkey like appearance.

australian bulldog puppy - descriptionAustralian bulldogs can be very good companions considering their natural loyalty. They just love to interact with humans and they are rarely aggressive.

They can be taught to be excellent watchdogs. The perfect place to raise this breed would be a house with a yard. The Australian Bulldog is usually dominant toward other dogs in its territory but, with proper training and early socialization, you can teach them to get along with other dogs and pets.

No matter if you are an active single, or you plan to bring an Australian bulldog puppy into the big family, as long as you are caring and loving toward him, he will be an amazing pet.

The Australian Bulldog is not recommended for apartment life. But, you can teach him to live in the smaller space if you tend to respect his daily need for activity. This breed is an indoor dog, and should not be left outside all day in a kennel. The best advice is to raise them in temperate climates since they can’t bear the extreme heat or extreme cold.

Characteristics

Characteristics

brussels griffon dog - characteristicsThe Brussels Griffon is sociable, alert and very intelligent. She is very energetic, playful and loving. They bond deeply with their family. Housebreaking might be a challenge as it is with all toy/small breeds. They are incredibly lonely and restless when their people are not around them. They have great personalities, terrier like characteristics, and deep loyalty to their humans. They are great companions and love children. Just remember how small they are. They are susceptible to Little Dog Syndrome if the human does not establish themselves as the alpha right away.

Around children

australian bulldog dog - characteristicsAustralian Bulldog is a breed that will protect their family. They are great during the playtime with children as well. If you don’t have children, make sure you socialize your dog with children while he is still young.

Special talents

They are extremely intelligent. You can teach you Australian Bulldog almost everything in a very short time.

Adaptability

early socialization is a must with the Australian Bulldog.

Learning ability

you should start to train your Australian Bulldog as soon as possible. Positive reinforcement-based training methods are the ones you need to master in order to raise a good Australian Bulldog. They will be trained easily if there is a firm, consistent hand in training and they need leadership role from their owners. They can be taught very easy to be obedient and they love playing games like Frisbee, catch, water activities (but they swim very rarely because of their big and heavy chests), exploring the nature.

Health Problems

brussels griffon puppies - health problemsThe Brussels Griffon is susceptible to many of the diseases and genetic conditions that many other toy or small dogs have. Flat-faced breeds like the Griffon also suffer from difficulty with breathing under certain weather conditions and they are known to snore. They should not be kept in hot, sunny, humid climates for this reason. They may also display patella luxation (slipping kneecaps) and hip dysplasia. Lastly, they are susceptible to ear infections. Dams are often in need of cesarean sections to deliver their litters. They have very serious health issues due to the head shape and flat face. These might include eye and respiratory issues and syringomyelia – a deadly neurological disease. They are susceptible to epilepsy, dental issues and eye lash issues.

australian bulldog puppies - health problemsAustralian Bulldog has better health than the English bulldog and its health continues to improve with each generation.

Breathing problems

The pushed-in face causes harder breathing. Be aware that they can’t use the air to cool itself off as quickly as necessary. During the extreme heat, Australian Bulldogs can develop heat stroke and die from it.

Skin problems

Take special care of the wrinkles on their nose. They will require everyday care since wrinkles need to be cleaned and kept dry to prevent the skin infection. Bath the dog only when it is necessary because of too much bathing with soap damages the natural oils in its skin.

Obesity

The Australian Bulldog, on average, is fed two times a day. They have the high risk of obesity, so there is no real need for more than two meals. Make sure to choose a premium quality food and to feed the dog according to the instructions. Also, they need lots of fresh water since they will be super active pet.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

brussels griffon dogs - caringThe Brussels Griffon can choke easily so take care with the size of kibble you feed them. They need about one fourth to one half of a cup of high quality dry food that is designed for small or toy dogs. Divide this amount into two or three small meals per day. Puppies should be fed more often than adults but never feed just one large meal per day. Be careful that your Brussels Griffon does not become obese.

Health issues

The Brussels Griffon, regardless of type has some very serious health issues due to the shape of their heads.

Syringomyelia – extremely painful and fatal neurological disease.

Brachycephalic Syndrome – This can cause all the respiratory issues as well as eye issues such as cataracts and corneal ulcers.

Epilepsy - Seizures

Dental Disease – gum disease

Puppy Mortality – one of every four Brussels Griffon pupped die at birth.

Exercise and games

This is a very playful and energetic breed that needs at least some exercise every day. They love to play with their family. They are smart and easy to train. They love agility, obedience, barn hunt and tracking activities. You can just as effectively play with and exercise your Brussels inside as well as out.

australian bulldog dogs - caringFeeding the puppy and adult: high-quality dog food for active dogs is a must. Do not overfeed them. If you are not sure about the amount of food your dog really needs, please consult a vet.

Grooming

The Australian Bulldog needs minimal grooming. They should be brushed at least once a week using a firm bristled brush. They shed a moderate amount on a regular basis so there will be loose hair to deal with. Make sure to clip the nails when necessary. They will need a tooth brushing two times a week and checking and wiping its ears once a week.

Points for Good Health: every day long walks, plenty of exercises, special skin care and regular vet check-ups.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Non sporting dog
Origin:
Belgium
Australia
Height Male:
18 - 20 cm
7 - 8 inches
45 - 50 cm
17 - 20 inches
Height Female:
16 - 18 cm
6 - 8 inches
44 - 49 cm
17 - 20 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
28 - 35 kg
61 - 78 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
23 - 30 kg
50 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
9 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 4
3 - 8
Size:
Toy dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Griffon Belge • Griffon Bruxellois • Brussels Griffon • Petit Brabancon • Belgian Griffon • Griffon
Aussie bulldog, Australian Boss dog
Colors Available:
red, black-and-reddish-brown (called belge), black and tan, and black
in the shades of brindle like red, fawn, pied, apricot, mahogany, orange, silver
Coat:
rough and smooth types
short, fine coat with a smooth texture
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Cheerful, Energetic, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  2. Morkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  3. Havanese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  4. Chorkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  5. Pekingese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  6. Chinese Crested Dog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  7. Chiweenie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  8. Chug vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  9. Brussels Griffon vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Brussels Griffon vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  11. Brussels Griffon vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  12. Chipoo vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  13. Chiapom vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  14. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  15. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  16. Russian Toy Terrier vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  17. Franzuskaya Bolonka vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  18. Phalene vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  19. Bugg vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  20. Cockachon vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  21. Shih Tzu vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  22. Silky Terrier vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  23. Snorkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  24. Toy Bulldog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  25. Toy Mi-Ki vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  26. Chow Chow vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Dalmatian vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  28. Chinese Shar Pei vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  29. Keeshond vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  30. Australian Bulldog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  31. Australian Bulldog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  32. Mexican Hairless vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  33. Tibetan Terrier vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  34. Standard Poodle vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  35. Norwegian Lundehund vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  36. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  37. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  38. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  39. American Bulldog vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  40. Bull Terrier vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  41. Golden Doodle vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  42. Pomsky vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  43. Basset Hound vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Border Collie vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  45. Sakhalin Husky vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  46. Other vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  47. Olde English Bulldogge vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds