Brussels Griffon Puppy Checklist

Before Puppy Comes Home

Small Dog, Big Preparation

A Brussels Griffon puppy is small but has significant personality from the very first day. Preparation focuses on creating a safe small-dog environment, sourcing appropriate supplies, and setting up veterinary care with a vet experienced with brachycephalic breeds.

Supplies Checklist

• Small to medium crate — large enough for the adult dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
• Small-breed food and water bowls (ceramic or stainless, shallow enough for the short muzzle to access easily)
• Adjustable collar (cat-sized to start) and — importantly — a well-fitted harness for walks (harnesses reduce pressure on the airway in brachycephalic breeds)
• 4–6 foot lightweight leash
• ID tag engraved with your phone number
• High-quality small-breed puppy food (confirm with your breeder)
• Soft toys and a couple of puzzle feeders for mental enrichment
• Enzymatic cleaner for accidents
• Soft pet facial wipes for daily eye and face cleaning
• Small dog dental brush and enzymatic dog toothpaste

Home Safety for a Tiny Dog

• Brussels Griffon puppies are very small and can be injured by falls — block off stairs with baby gates until the puppy is older and coordinated
• Secure all spaces where the puppy could get stuck or fall (behind appliances, under furniture gaps, etc.)
• Ensure all family members — especially children — understand how to handle the puppy gently
• Remove or secure chewing hazards: electrical cords, small objects that could be swallowed

Vet Setup

• Find a vet experienced with small and brachycephalic breeds
• Schedule first wellness exam within 48–72 hours of homecoming
• Ask about brachycephalic airway assessment — some puppies benefit from early evaluation
• Discuss dental care schedule — Brussels Griffons need regular professional cleanings and early dental habits matter
• Enroll in pet insurance immediately

First Week Setup

Settling In a Sensitive Small Dog

The Brussels Griffon is emotionally sensitive and will take cues from your energy. The first week should be calm, warm, and structured — not overwhelming.

Day 1–2: Arrival

• Show the puppy its crate immediately; feed the first meal inside with the door open
• Establish the house-training schedule: outside after every meal, nap, and play session, and every 1–2 hours otherwise
• Begin facial cleaning on day one: gently wipe around the eyes and muzzle folds with a soft damp cloth, reward with a tiny treat
• Keep the first day calm — no overwhelming introduction parties

Day 3–7: Expanding the World

• Begin short walks on the harness (not collar-only) in the immediate neighborhood
• Introduce the puppy to 2–3 calm, friendly adults with food rewards
• Handle feet, ears, and mouth daily to build tolerance for grooming and vet exams
• Start the dental routine: let the puppy taste the toothpaste, then progress to brief brushing
• Complete first vet wellness visit

Socialization Focus (Weeks 8–16)

• Varied adults — this is a breed that can become strongly one-person attached; expose it to many positive human interactions
• Gentle children (supervised only)
• Other small dogs in controlled play settings
• Urban sounds and environments
• Alone time — gradually increase periods of separation to prevent severe separation anxiety

Training

Training a Sensitive, Opinionated Small Dog

The Brussels Griffon is intelligent and can learn quickly, but it is also sensitive and self-directed. Harsh correction is counterproductive — it causes the Griffon to shut down or become defensive. Positive reinforcement with high-value treats and clear, consistent structure is the correct approach.

Priority Training Goals

• Harness and leash acceptance: Start from day one. The Griffon should walk calmly on a harness — not pull, not refuse to move. Use treats and praise to reward movement alongside you.
• Sit, stay, come: The basics. Work on them daily in short 3–5 minute sessions. The Griffon's attention span is modest; keep training sessions brief and fun.
• Alone time training: This is critical for a breed prone to separation anxiety. From day one, create times when the puppy is in its crate with a stuffed Kong while you are home. Gradually extend these periods before ever leaving the house. Do not let the puppy be on your body or following you every minute — independence must be built intentionally.
• Bite inhibition: Griffon puppies bite. Redirect to toys, say a calm firm "no," and withdraw attention. Never use physical correction on a sensitive small dog.

Things to Avoid

• Carrying the puppy everywhere — this prevents socialization and builds the dependency that leads to separation anxiety
• Treating every uncertainty with soothing — comfort-seeking behavior reinforces anxiety. Treat uncertain moments with calm confidence instead.
• Allowing the puppy to rehearse barking or snapping at visitors — redirect immediately and work on the behavior before it becomes a pattern