Brussels Griffon / Affenpinschers
573-657-0595
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do your dogs shed?
Yes, but it is minimal. The "Brussels Griffon" and "Affenpinschers" have a harsh terrier coat. This coat actually consists of two types of hair-the very hard outer coat and soft under coat. This type of coat sheds only if the dog is un-groomed for several months. As puppies, the dogs with this type of coat have this double coat. In the show ring, the hard outer coat is essential, and in order to keep the outer coat hard, it must be plucked (hand stripped) out when dead (the hair grows to a certain length and then goes dormant). At that time the outer coat is fairly easy to strip out. If you clipper this type of coat, the undercoat becomes the predominant coat. This coat is soft, very pleasant to touch, and non-shedding, as long as the dog is clipped regularly (every 6 to 12 weeks). If unclipped the coat will eventually revert back to the hard terrier coat. This type of coat is actually very suitable for people with allergies, as long as it’s properly maintained. I brush my "Brussels Griffon" and "Affenpinschers" every couple of weeks with a fine tooth comb. This pulls out any dead hairs and detangles them. This keeps shedding to an almost non-existent level.
Are your dogs good for people with allergies?
Not necessarily. There is no dog breed that is truly non-allergenic. However, it is possible for people that are allergic and animals to co-exist. There are many things that can cause allergies such as mold, dust, pollen etc… By reducing these irritants you will also reduce your overall symptoms. Keeping your dog bathed and their hair clipped short can help as the pollutants are stored in the dander of an animal. Early childhood exposure to animals has been shown to lower the risk of developing reactions later in life. Allerpet D is a shampoo that you wipe the dog down with. It is supposed to help with allergic reactions in people. When used on your dog’s coat as it neutralizes the allergens on the pet’s skin and fur. New medications can make living with allergies much more comfortable. A wide variety of nasal sprays, decongestants, and inhalers can help control allergy symptoms. Other suggestions:
Buy inexpensive vinyl encasing for mattresses and box springs, and minimize upholstered furniture.
Replace carpets with tile, wood, linoleum, or rugs that can be washed, especially in rooms where you spend a lot of time.
Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) type vacuum. It will capture the small particles of allergens.
Provide your animal companion with their own comfortable beds and blankets.
Keep ducts, furnaces, and air conditioner filters clean.
Ventilate your house and circulate air by opening windows as often as possible.
Wash your hands after petting your dog.
Don’t allow the dog in your bedroom or to sit on the furniture or cover it with sheets that can be washed daily.
If you do not currently have a dog and are considering one, and know you are pet-allergic, be sure to consider carefully whether you can live with the allergy BEFORE YOU BRING A NEW PET HOME!
Do you own both parents to the litter and are they onsite?
Yes. I have raised my dogs from pups. They are my pets.
Are your dogs registered?
Yes, my dogs are AKC registered. I use no other registries and I conform to all AKC guidelines. My adult males are DNA registered. I register my puppies with AKC, but full registration is not automatically given. If you are adopting a puppy as just a pet, it is expected that the dog will be spayed or neutered. I will be happy to send you their registration papers after I receive a spay/neuter certificate from your vet. Prior arrangements must be made if you would like full AKC registration on your puppy.
Do you show your dogs?
I personally do not show my dogs. When I have a dog that I want to be shown, I contract a handler. I do not have the extra time to attend dog shows all over the country. I also do not enjoy the competitive side to the shows. I do belong to my local kennel club. Occasionally, I will get my dog ready for competition by taking them to confirmation classes and do the necessary training at home.
Do you sell your show quality dogs?
I normally keep any dogs that are show potential. I refer people to show breeders or their local kennel club to get on a waiting list to obtain a show dog.
Where do you raise your puppies?
My puppies are all raised in the house from birth. At first they are in a playpen with their moms and then as they get big enough to interact with their litter mates in a larger environment, they get to play in the kitchen.
Are your puppies housebroken?
I do not let my puppies outside until they have had at least 2 vaccines to build up their immunity against canine diseases. Housebreaking is a big job and little pups need to "go" frequently. I have a doggy door that my adults go out, but it takes awhile for a puppy to be brave enough to go through the mystery door. Once they have mastered it, you can’t keep them inside (weather permitting). You can begin housebreaking your new puppy as soon as they get them home. I have included a link to housebreaking under the behavior tips menu.
Do you guarantee your puppies?
Yes. I give a written 2 year health guarantee against any disabling congenital defects. I have included a link to my health guarantee for your review.
When do you worm and vaccinate your puppies?
I worm my puppies 3 times, 10 days apart. I use Pyrantle Paomote. I start puppy vaccines at 6 weeks of age. I use Vanguard plus 5. Puppies get 3 vaccines, 3 weeks apart. If a puppy is over 12 weeks old when they are shipped, many states require that they have a rabies vaccine.
How do you socialize your puppies?
I start handling my puppies when they are about 2 weeks old. I rub their bodies and snuggle them up by my neck. By the time they are 4 weeks old, I am holding them while I pet them. At 5 to 6 weeks of age, my pups are running to get to me when I come near their bed. They are usually full of kisses and batting their paws at me. When I have company, they always get handed a puppy to interact with. At that age, they are also allowed to play with the older dogs (with supervision of course). This helps if you have other pets to introduce them too. Your Puppy will come to you affectionate and playful.
Do you sell to pet stores?
NO! I only sell to pet homes. I have nothing against pet stores but I prefer to place my puppies directly from my home to yours.
Do you do genetic testing on your dogs?
No, because none of my dogs have any health problems, nor do their offspring. Therefore, I have no reason to have any type of testing done.
How do your dogs do in the weather?
The Brussels Griffon does not do well in extreme temperatures. Their noses are so short that they can’t cool the air quick enough. They actually do better in cooler climates.
The "Affenpinschers" love all weather. They will dive in when they see fresh snow. You will have the occasional pup that doesn’t like to get their feet wet however, "Affenpinschers" play hard when they are outside. They are also big diggers so plan on having some rock around.
How do the two breeds compare?
The "Brussels Griffons" are more an "in your face" kind of dog. Conversely, the "Affenpinscher" is better at entertaining them-self. The "Affens" have more of the "scraper" attitude and the "Griffs" are more "vocal". The coats are very similar and so is their general care. "Affens" do require more exercise than the "Griffs". They need an area to romp in a couple of times a day.
Can you tell me about your breeding practices?
I strive to produce puppies that are a compliment to their breed by keeping proper breed standards in mind as one of my top priorities. I place equal importance on good health and proper temperament. I am confident that my puppies will be a fun and rewarding addition to your home.
How do I know which puppy to choose since I can’t see them?
I send pictures every two weeks out of the puppies that you will have to pick from if you decide on this litter. I will continually give you updates as their personalities develop. By the time a puppy is 6 to 8 weeks old, I can also tell a lot about their physical characteristics. However, these two breeds continue to change in appearance until they are about 2 years old. That second year, they get a beautiful thick coat and their chest drops down. This gives them a stockier appearance. Don’t expect a huge difference in the tiny ones. This also gives you lots of time to think of any questions you may have about the breed or raising your puppy.
What kind of food do you use?
I start my puppies out on Eukanuba Small Breed Puppy Chiots. It comes in a pink and gray bag and it can be purchased from a pet supply store (i.e.….PetSmart or Petco). This is a premium food and has Omega 3 fish oil in it.
When my pups are 8 – 10 months old, I switch them Iams Mini Chunks (small breed), in a green bag and can even be purchased from Walmart. This is also a premium food with Omega 3 fish oil in it.
What if I can’t keep the puppy/dog?
At NO time is one of my puppies/dogs to be surrendered to an animal shelter or rescue! If for any reason you can not keep your puppy and are unable to find a loving home, they will always have a home with me until a suitable home is found.
Do you ship your puppies?
Yes, I will ship at the buyers expense. If the puppy is too tiny, you will have the option to either come pick up your puppy or have them stay with me until they are large enough to ship. I will not ship anywhere out of the United States that requires a "quarantine" as I don’t feel it is fair to the puppy. I have attached a link to my shipping information page.
