The Breed was introduced to the UK in the 1890's from Belgium, where they were known as the dogs of Hansom Cab Drivers. These little dogs were often found sitting on the front seat of the cab where their diminutive size and street urchin look won them many admirers. The Griffon has been popular from the beginning in the UK because of their smart appearance and sassy attitude.

The Griffon has quite a mixed background - the German Affenpinscher, Belgian street terriers, the pug, the King Charles spaniel and even the Yorkshire Terrier are believed to have made contributions to the little dogs we see today.

There are two coat types, "roughs" and "smooths". The two coat types ofter being in the same litter. Officially the roughs are called "Griffon Bruxellois" and the smooths "Petite Brabacons". Both Coat types come in three colours, red, black and Black & Tan. In the UK all colours and coat types are shown in the same classes, however under FCI rules they are separate.