They may be small, but Brussels Griffons make themselves known — with wide-eyed expressions, quick intelligence, and an uncanny ability to read your mood. Affectionate yet strong-willed, these dogs don’t just want to please you — they want to understand you. 

But that emotional depth comes with quirks. Training a Griffon isn’t about control — it’s about connection. In this guide, we unpack what makes these dogs tick, and how to nurture focus, trust, and good habits without losing their spark. From positive reinforcement to food that supports mental clarity, here’s how to bring out the best in your spirited little sidekick.

Brussels Griffon temperament and trainability 

Affectionate, alert, and occasionally stubborn, Brussels Griffons form strong bonds with their humans. Their smarts mean they can learn quickly — when they feel like it. But they can also be sensitive and shy, especially around strangers. 

Socialisation and gentle confidence-building are key. Harsh corrections may backfire, making them shut down or act out. Instead, rely on food motivation, praise, and structured routines to bring out their best. 

With consistency, positive reinforcement, and a nurturing approach, your Griffon will grow into a confident, responsive companion. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

Brussels Griffons are charming and spirited companions, but a few breed-specific health issues can affect their comfort, focus, and overall trainability. 

They’re particularly prone to: 

Patella luxation

This is a hereditary condition where the kneecap slips in and out of place, which can cause intermittent lameness or discomfort. Joint discomfort often shows up subtly at first, like slower movement or hesitation during training — before becoming a more serious barrier to exercise and focus. 

Try this:  
Include dietary ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, like turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or green-lipped mussels to help support joint health. Look for these joint-loving ingredients in Lyka meals, treats, and Joint Supplement.
 

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Due to their flat faces and shortened airways, Brussels Griffons can experience breathing difficulties and reduced exercise tolerance. 

Try this:  
Avoid over-exercising your pup, especially in hot weather, as they can overheat quickly. 

Obesity or excess weight gain

Weight gain can be common in small breeds, resulting from overfeeding and under-exercising. Carrying extra kilos can put stress on joints, decrease motivation to exercise and impact your dog’s ability to focus during training. Over time, excess weight can also affect mood, energy levels and overall health. 

Try this:  

Opt for custom-portioned, nutrient-dense meals that provide steady energy without excess calories, like Lyka.  

Read more: Read more: Lyka's vet guide to healthy dog weight (with charts and video) 

These conditions can make training more challenging if they lead to discomfort or distraction. If your Griffon seems less focused or reactive, a vet check-up might uncover a health issue that needs addressing.  

How real food fuels your Brussels Griffon’s focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Brussels Griffons benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, which have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil), which support brain health and development, memory, and learning. 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms to support the immune system, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.”  

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)   

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience. 
 

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health.  

Read more: What do Brussels Griffons eat? Breed-specific nutrition tips  
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus 

Griffons don’t need intense exercise, but a short walk or indoor play session can help them release energy and settle down for training. 

Look for signs of overheating and keep sessions short, especially during the summer months. Mental stimulation often goes a long way in helping Griffons stay balanced and focused. 

Training tips for Brussels Griffons 

Training a Griffon means embracing their quirks and sensitivity — but with patience and a playful approach, it’s incredibly rewarding. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship. 

Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Griffon, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat. 

Find their favourite motivator 

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Brussels Griffon motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you? 

Train at the right time 

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered. 

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue. 

Stay consistent 

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations for your pup’s behaviour, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues. 

Be playful and engaging 

Dogs are sensitive souls that can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious. 

Watch their body language 

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another time. 

Training your Brussels Griffon puppy 

Griffon puppies are sweet but can be shy or reactive in new situations. Socialisation should be slow and positive, and toilet training may take some time. 

House training is usually top of the list, followed closely by socialisation and basic obedience cues like sit, stay, and leave it. 

What works? 

• A regular toilet routine 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime 

• Early and controlled socialisation with people, dogs, sounds, places and situations 

Brussels Griffons are especially sensitive to harsh corrections, so stick with force-free methods that build trust and confidence. 

Training your adult Brussels Griffon 

Just because your Brussels Griffon’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

This might look like: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings at the door 

• Learning new tricks or games 

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house 

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep training light and engaging, and always celebrate progress, no matter how small. 

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist 

Not sure if your Brussels Griffon’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper? 

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity 

• Anxiety or phobias 

• Aggression 

• Resource guarding 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.” 

– Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Brussels Griffon is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Brussels Griffon’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Brussels Griffons across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.