Maremma Sheepdog vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison

Maremma Sheepdog vs Belgian Griffon - Breed ComparisonBelgian Griffon is originated from Belgium but Maremma Sheepdog is originated from Italy. Belgian Griffon may grow 53 cm / 20 inches shorter than Maremma Sheepdog. Belgian Griffon may weigh 39 kg / 85 pounds lesser than Maremma Sheepdog. Both Belgian Griffon and Maremma Sheepdog has almost same life span. Belgian Griffon may have less litter size than Maremma Sheepdog. Both Belgian Griffon and Maremma Sheepdog requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Working dog
undefined
Belgium
Italy
Height Male:
18 - 20 cm
7 - 8 inches
65 - 73 cm
25 - 29 inches
Height Female:
16 - 20 cm
6 - 8 inches
65 - 73 cm
25 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
35 - 45 kg
77 - 100 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
35 - 45 kg
77 - 100 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
10 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 3
6 - 9
Size:
Small
Large
Other Names:
Brussels Griffon, Griffon Belge, Griffon Bruxellois Petit Brabançon
Maremmano, Abruzzese Sheepdog
Colors Available:
red, tan or black
White
Coat:
2 types - soft or wiry
Long and Thick
Shedding:
Minimal, Seasonal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

belgian griffonThe Belgian Griffon isn’t your most attractive dog, but maybe its his quirky, gremlin looks that makes him such an adored pet for many. There are different varieties of Griffon, and the Belgian- and Brussels Griffon are one and the same. All small Belgian dogs have the same breed standards, with the Belgian having a rough coat The dog hails from Belguim and its ancestors were no doubt a mix of the Belgian street dog, the Stable Griffon and the Affenpinscher.

Later on in the 1800s, this combination was then crossed with the Pug, giving the dog the brachycephalic or flat faced look.

Unfortunately no written records were kept about the precise origin of this breed, but there is also the idea that the King Charles- and English Toy Spaniel were also involved in its development. These small dogs were bred to catch rats in the barns of European estates.

maremma sheepdogKnown also as the Cane de Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese, the Maremma Sheepdog is often referred to as the Maremmano or the Abruzzese Sheepdog.

This is a working dog – a guardian of sheep and an indigenous dog to central Italy. The dog has been used for centuries already to guard sheep.

It was in 1924 that the first standard for the breed was published.

Description

Small but Full of Attitude

belgian griffon puppy - descriptionThere are different variations of this dog to give it its distinctive look and size. This quaint looking little Griffon canine comes with two different coat types - soft or wiry. With the Belgian Griffon, his wiry coat of red, tan or black will need to be brushed at least twice a week. Shedding with this dog is seasonal.

He has a compact, sturdy little body, and he trots around with attitude. With his sharp pointed ears and whiskers, he has been given the nickname ‘bearded dog’. His dark black eyes are alert. He is self-confident, intelligent and curious breed, a great family pet and good with children if he has grown up with them in the home. He is good with other pets. The fact that this is a small breed and that he doesn’t have excessive energy levels, means he is adaptable to city- and country living.

maremma sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Maremma Sheepdog is a large dog with a muscular build. Some people who have owned these distinctive-looking dogs say he is like a big bear. He stands at 65 to 73 cm in height, both male and female, and he weighs 35 to 45 kg.

The coat is long, thick and white with a dense undercoat. If you look you’ll see flashes of pale orange or apricot amid the white. There is thicker, longer hair around the neck area.

The nose is black, the eyes brown and the ears medium length and floppy. The long tail is set low and is thickly feathered. You can expect 6 – 10 puppies from these dogs.

Temperament:

The Maremma has always been used to guarding sheep, and today even though he is looked upon as a wonderful, friendly companion dog, he also makes an excellent watch dog, being brave and courageous. He isn’t the kind of dog that you think of as getting wildly excited over something, as he has a dignified aura about him.

He is an independent dog, so training and sociaization will be absolutely imperative as he is strong-willed and likes to do things his way. Once trained and socialized, it is amazing to see such a large dog obeying all your commands such as ‘lie down, come, sit an stay'. He is very intelligent and shouldn’t have any trouble learning these basic commands.

He is calm and gets on well with children as well as other pets in the home. With his role as guardian of sheep, he has learned to be loyal and patient and will make a loyal ad loving family pet he takes his role as guardian very seriously.

He loves hard work, and shepherds have always appreciated the splendid work he does guarding their flocks. As a companion you will also appreciate the many excellent qualities he possesses.

The Maremma Sheepdog isn’t recommended for life in the city where there is a tiny garden. He has always been accustomed to large open spaces and requires a large garden. He won’t tolerate heat well with that thick coat of his and will require a shady spot in your garden to retreat to.

Characteristics

belgian griffon dog - characteristicsThe Belgian Griffon is an affectionate pet and often establishes a strong bond with one member of the family. You’ll have your Griffon with you for about 15 years so make sure he is trained and a pleasure to have around.They are difficult to train, being somewhat stubborn so they are going to require patience. They’re sensitive too, and they won’t respond well to aggressive treatment.

They’re much more indoor dogs than outdoor dogs because they’re also vulnerable to heat stroke. They just want to come indoors and be with their human family, and when you do that for them, they’ll become a wonderful friend and companion to you.

maremma sheepdog dog - characteristicsThis is a beautiful dog, but large, so don’t make the mistake of wanting a large dog like this for his looks. He will be expensive to feed.

If you have the means to provide a good home for him, he is friendly and good natured, even though he is strong-willed and independent.

Provide him with a good home and you’ll have a most splendid pet and companion.

Health Problems

belgian griffon puppies - health problemsWhen you get your Griffon from a reputable breeder, you always have a better chance that he’ll be healthy. As it is, the Belgian Griffon has few hereditary health issues. However his dark eyes will have some genetic problems to contend with and he could suffer with progressive retinal atrophy. This is an illness which can lead to blindness

Other health issues to look out for are -

Syringomyelia – this is a neurological condition – an abnormality of the spinal cord – a disease which occurs more frequently in small breeds. It can cause your pet to endure a lot of pain.

Birthing Issues - these little dogs often have problems with giving birth, and a vet often has to intervene and perform a cesarean.

maremma sheepdog puppies - health problemsThis ancient dog breed is robust and can reach 11 to 13 years of age when cared for properly. Like any other dogs, he can be prone to certain health problems.

One of these is hip dysplasia. Preventing your dog from becoming overweight can work towards preventing these kinds of musculoskeletal issues. Hip dysplasia occurs when your dog’s hip joints don’t develop properly so that the hips partially dislocate.

It is painful for your dog and it can be debilitating, leading to arthritis too and making it difficult for your pet to get around and to get up from lying down. There are a number of treatment options offered by your vet.

Caring The Pet

Food and Water

belgian griffon dogs - caringThe Belgian Griffon will do well if you invest in high quality foods. You can make your own, but if you’re concerned about his health, it would be best to check what ingredients should go into his home-prepared meals to ensure he gets all the vitamins and minerals he needs.

If you want to go with commercially manufactured dog foods, check with your vet about wet- and dry foods. Your vet will help with choosing a food appropriate to his size and age. Always ensure that there is clean, fresh water available to your pet.

Exercise

Even though he is a small breed, he is fairly active and he will need his fair share of exercise like ball games and walks. Training and socialization are a must for him. You’ll notice that training isn’t particularly easy with this breed, and first time dog owners might not have the patience with him.

Exercise:

maremma sheepdog dogs - caringAs already suggested, this large dog will need space and he will need to be exercised. Apart from long walks in he countryside or in the park or your neighborhood, he will also need other activities that stimulate him mentally and physically.

Grooming:

The thick, all-weather coat of the Maremma will need a thorough bushing at least twice a week to get rid of all those loose hairs. When you are brushing him, look around for signs of ticks and fleas too and run your hands over him to feel for any unusual lumps.

Diet:

The Maremma is a large-breed dog, so before you get a big dog like this, decide whether you have the financial means to feed him and look after him properly. He is going to cost a lot to feed, so think it through first.

He will need to be fed a high-quality commercial dog food which has been specially formulated for a dog of his size. Keep the food of dogs simple. We’re all tempted to feed our dog treats like things such as chocolates, coffee, nuts, onions, grapes and raisins but these can cause havoc with your dog’s stomach.

Stick to simple, nutritious food. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and vegetables such as potatoes, spinach and carrots can do wonders for your pet when you sometimes mix this into his kibble.

Try and mix some raw meat into his diet occasionally. Make sure he always has access to fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Belgian Griffon vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Belgian Griffon vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Belgian Griffon vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Belgian Griffon vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Belgian Griffon vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Belgian Griffon vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Belgian Griffon vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Belgian Griffon vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Belgian Griffon vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Belgian Griffon vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Belgian Griffon vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Belgian Griffon vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Belgian Griffon vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Belgian Griffon vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Belgian Griffon vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Belgian Griffon vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Belgian Griffon vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Belgian Griffon vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Belgian Griffon vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Belgian Griffon vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Belgian Griffon vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Belgian Griffon vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Belgian Griffon vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Belgian Griffon vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Belgian Griffon vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Maremma Sheepdog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Maremma Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Maremma Sheepdog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Maremma Sheepdog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Maremma Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Maremma Sheepdog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Maremma Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Maremma Sheepdog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Maremma Sheepdog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Maremma Sheepdog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Maremma Sheepdog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Maremma Sheepdog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Maremma Sheepdog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Maremma Sheepdog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Maremma Sheepdog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Maremma Sheepdog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Maremma Sheepdog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Maremma Sheepdog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Maremma Sheepdog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Maremma Sheepdog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Maremma Sheepdog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Maremma Sheepdog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Maremma Sheepdog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Maremma Sheepdog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Maremma Sheepdog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison