Brussels Griffon vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison

Brussels Griffon vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed ComparisonBrussels Griffon is originated from Belgium but Cardigan Welsh Corgi is originated from United Kingdom. Brussels Griffon may grow 13 cm / 5 inches shorter than Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Brussels Griffon may weigh 8 kg / 17 pounds lesser than Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Brussels Griffon may live 3 years less than Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Both Brussels Griffon and Cardigan Welsh Corgi has almost same litter size. Brussels Griffon requires Moderate maintenance. But Cardigan Welsh Corgi requires Low 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.

cardigan welsh corgi - historyThe Cardigan Welsh Corgi, named after Cardiganshire, Wales, is an ancient breed, brought to Wales by the Celts about 3,000 years ago.

Small but tough, the Cardigan used to take part in cattle drives and his duties extended to protecting them at night.

The first pair of breeding Cardigans arrived in the United States in June 1931. The AKC granted full recognition to the breed four years later.The Cardi, as the breed is commonly called, was developed as an all-around farm dog in Wales. It is believed to be a descendant of the Pomeranian, Schipperkes, Keeshond and Swedish Valhund.

The Cardigan and the Pembroke Welsh corgis were separated officially into different breeds in the early 1930s. AKC recognition came in 1935.

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.

cardigan welsh corgi puppy - descriptionThe long-shaped Cardiganshire Welsh Corgi is also nicknamed the ‘yard-long dog’ in Wales. Don’t be fooled by this low-to-the-ground dog, because when you look at him he isn’t a small dog at all, looking almost like a German shepherd with short legs, upright ears and a long, bushy tail.This is unlike the Pembroke Welsh Corgi whose tail is traditionally docked.

The Cardi stands around 270 to 330mm tall at the withers and weighs between 11 to 17kg. With those short legs he can gather up quite a speed as well. The dog has a double coat in fawn, red, black and with the outer coat being of medium length and quite harsh to the touch. You can also find some white on the neck, chest as well as on the legs.

Temperament:

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is full of spirit and makes a fantastic companion for someone looking for a fun-loving, devoted friend. He is an easy going dog, making a wonderful pet, while being reserved with strangers. He isn’t a tall dog but he will guard the family too. He is good with children in the family and even with other pets, provided he is trained and socialized.

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.

cardigan welsh corgi dog - characteristicsThe Cardigan Welsh Corgi is full of surprises and he has been a strong working job, being quick and agile around cattle. He is good at everything and with training and socialization he is going to make an excellent pet.

They are good with children and other pets and he makes an excellent guard dog as well. He is strong willed and feisty but he wants to please his owner. With a dog like this in your life, you’re going to have a faithful and loving friend who knows how to entertain you as well with his antics.

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.

cardigan welsh corgi puppies - health problemsThe Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. Like all dogs, they will have some health concerns, and recognizing the symptoms of some common dog illnesses can spare your pet.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a debilitating genetic joint condition that can affects any dog really. It occurs when the hind leg joint isn’t held properly by the hip socket. Bone is worn away and your dog can experience severe pain.

Unfortunately this is a common skeletal disorder and your pet will be reluctant to jump or play. Untreated, it can lead to arthritis and chronic pain, making him immobile. There are several types of treatments and you want to get your pet to the vet to relieve him of pain and discomfort.

Degenerative Myelopathy:

This is a terrible disease for your pet because the rear legs can actually become paralyzed and your pet won’t be able to control their bowels. It is an inflammatory autoimmune disease where the dog’s immune system cells attack the spinal cord sheath. If your vet suspects Degenerative Myelopathy, a blood sample will be required. Sometimes the dog has to be mercifully euthanized. Sometimes people even turn to holistic treatments to avoid this and help their 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.

Exercise:

cardigan welsh corgi dogs - caringCardigan Welsh corgis are active dogs and he is going to need daily exercise. He’ll love a walk with you and will show you how agile he is when you throw a ball for him

Grooming:

The Cardigan is a low maintenance dog. His thick double coat does shed quite a bit but nonetheless it is easy to maintain. Simply give it a good brush to remove loose hairs and to get rid of dirt. This brushing distributes the dogs natural oils and helps to keep the coat shiny and healthy.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Belgium
United Kingdom
Height Male:
18 - 20 cm
7 - 8 inches
25 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
Height Female:
16 - 18 cm
6 - 8 inches
25 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
11 - 14 kg
24 - 31 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
9 - 14 kg
19 - 31 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 4
4 - 6
Size:
Toy dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Griffon Belge • Griffon Bruxellois • Brussels Griffon • Petit Brabancon • Belgian Griffon • Griffon
Cardigan, Cardi
Colors Available:
red, black-and-reddish-brown (called belge), black and tan, and black
Red, brindle, black, black and tan, brindle and black
Coat:
rough and smooth types
Short and dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Cheerful, Energetic, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Corgi vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  3. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  4. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  5. Toy Australian Shepherd vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  6. Welsh Corgi vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  7. Pomeranian vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  8. Maltese vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  9. Pug vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  10. Maltipoo vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  12. Dachshund vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  13. Jack Russell Terrier vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  14. Cockapoo vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  15. Cavapoo vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  16. Miniature Schnauzer vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  17. Cavachon vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  18. Mal-Shi vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  19. Papillon vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  20. Japanese Chin vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  21. Miniature English Bulldog vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  22. Miniature Dachshund vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  23. Lhasa Apso vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  24. Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  25. Morkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  26. Havanese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  27. Chorkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  28. Pekingese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  29. Chinese Crested Dog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  30. Chiweenie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  31. Chug vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  32. Brussels Griffon vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. Brussels Griffon vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  34. Brussels Griffon vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  35. Chipoo vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  36. Chiapom vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  37. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  38. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  39. Russian Toy Terrier vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  40. Franzuskaya Bolonka vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  41. Phalene vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  42. Bugg vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  43. Cockachon vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  44. Shih Tzu vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  45. Silky Terrier vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  46. Snorkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  47. Toy Bulldog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  48. Toy Mi-Ki vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds