Rattle Griffon

Griffon Rat Terrier

Purpose

Companion

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Rattle Griffon is a charming blend of the lively Brussels Griffon and the alert Rat Terrier. Generally weighing under 14 pounds, this small breed is celebrated for its friendly and loving demeanor. Rattle Griffons are also quite active, making them easy to train and wonderful companions for kids. Their energetic nature means they need ample exercise and enjoy joining their owners for extended walks or runs. Furthermore, they serve as effective watchdogs, barking to notify their families of any possible intruders.

Breed Origin

The Rattle is a relatively new hybrid breed, yet its parent breeds have rich and extensive histories. The Brussels Griffon, for instance, has its roots in Brussels, Belgium, dating back over 200 years. Originally called the Griffon d’Ecurie, this wiry-haired dog was a stable companion that quickly became popular among cab drivers, farmers, and peasants for its effectiveness in deterring thieves and managing pests. In the 1800s, breeders began to introduce the Pug, Affenpinscher, English Toy Spaniel, and possibly the Yorkshire Terrier into the breeding program, resulting in the breed's distinctive compact and sturdy build. Although the original ratter instincts have faded over time, the Brussels Griffon still embodies traits of courage, loyalty, and bravery, making it an excellent companion. This breed is categorized into three varieties: Brussels Griffon, Belgium Griffon, and Petit Brabancon, with only the Brussels Griffon being recognized by the American Kennel Club in both smooth and rough coat types. On the other hand, the Rat Terrier was developed in the United States during the 1800s through the crossbreeding of popular Fox and European Terriers. This breed also included Whippets, Beagles, and Greyhounds, resulting in a small dog known for its energetic personality and well-rounded temperament. The Rat Terrier became a favored choice on farms due to its hunting abilities both above and below ground, establishing itself as one of the most prevalent working dogs by the early 1900s. Its intelligence, temperament, and skills contributed to a growing interest in the breed. However, as agricultural work diminished, so did the demand for these dogs. Ultimately, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 2013.

Breed Appearance

The Rattle Griffon will showcase traits inherited from its parent breeds. Like many mixed breeds, this dog may exhibit more physical characteristics from either the Rat Terrier or the Brussels Griffon, or it might present a harmonious blend of features from both. Typically, this hybrid is a small dog, weighing between 4 and 12 pounds and standing under 13 inches tall. Both parent breeds are known for their sturdy, compact builds, featuring a strong, arched neck and powerful legs suited for digging—traits likely to be found in the Rattle Griffon as well. Its coat is usually fine and can be either rough or smooth, while its round eyes, which can be dark or blue, are always bright, and its ears are upright.

Care Routine

The maintenance of your Rattle Griffon primarily depends on the coat type he inherits. If he resembles the Rat Terrier, grooming will be relatively simple, with moderate and consistent shedding expected. Daily brushing will help keep your living space and furniture clean. Alternatively, he may inherit a rough or smooth coat from his Brussels Griffon parent. For a rough coat, brushing three times a week and coat stripping every three months will be adequate. On the other hand, a smooth coat requires weekly brushing. Regardless of the coat type, baths should only be given when absolutely necessary. Furthermore, it’s important to brush your Rattle Griffon’s teeth several times a week, as smaller breeds are more susceptible to gum disease, making regular dental care vital for his long-term oral health.

Behavior & Temperament

The Rattle Griffon inherits a variety of behavioral traits from its parent breeds, the Rat Terrier and the Brussels Griffon. Each puppy in this hybrid will exhibit a distinct mix of characteristics passed down from these breeds. Typically, this crossbreed is recognized for its vibrant energy, friendly disposition, and loving nature. Training tends to be relatively easy, as the Brussels Griffon influence makes it generally good with children and responsive to alerting its owner about unfamiliar situations. Loyalty is a defining trait of this hybrid, and similar to the Brussels Griffon, it often enjoys being the center of attention. Additionally, influenced by its Rat Terrier heritage, the Rattle Griffon thrives on physical activity and is keen to please its owners. Despite its lively temperament, this hybrid also values moments of rest, frequently relishing quiet time spent with its human friends.

Play & Exercise

You should expect your Rattle Griffon to be quite lively and in need of plenty of physical activity. This can include long walks or runs with you, as well as outdoor play and trips to the dog park. The Rattle Griffon takes after its parent breed, the Rat Terrier, which is renowned for its skills in obedience and agility. Participating in these activities will not only keep your dog engaged but also provide mental stimulation. Depending on the specific characteristics your Rattle Griffon inherits, he may particularly enjoy these activities. Given the breed's small size, he doesn't require a large, fenced yard; much of his exercise needs can be met while spending time indoors with you.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

1.5 Cups

Daily Activity

45 Minutes

Average Lifespan

16 Years

Origin

Unknown

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

Unknown

Brush Frequency

Daily

Coat Texture

Straight

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Height & Weight

Weight

9 lbs (4 kg)

Male: 9 lbs (4 kg) , Female: 9 lbs (4 kg)

Height

10 inches (25 sm)

Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 9 inches (23 sm)

6 Months

4 lbs

4 inches

4 lbs ( m 4 lbs, f 4 lbs )

4 inches ( m 4 inches, f 4 inches )

12 Months

8 lbs

8 inches

8 lbs ( m 8 lbs, f 8 lbs )

8 inches ( m 8 inches, f 8 inches )

18 Months

9 lbs

9 inches

9 lbs ( m 9 lbs, f 9 lbs )

9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )