Chussel
Hybrid Breed Description
The Chussel is a cross between the Brussels Griffon and the Chihuahua. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Chussel. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a diminutive toy breed standing seven to ten inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between six and fourteen pounds, with most individuals falling in the eight to ten pound range. Despite their small stature, these dogs possess a surprisingly sturdy, square-proportioned body with substantial bone structure that gives them more weight and solidity than their size might suggest. The breed's most distinctive and immediately recognizable feature is their remarkably human-like facial expression, created by a combination of large, wide-set, prominent dark eyes that convey almost childlike emotions, a very short muzzle, and a broad, domed skull. Their expressive faces have earned comparisons to the Ewoks from Star Wars and contribute significantly to the breed's charm and appeal. The Brussels Griffon's natural ears are small, set high on the head, and fold forward, though ear cropping historically was common and some dogs still display erect, cropped ears. Brussels Griffons come in two distinct coat varieties that represent different breeding lines within the breed. The rough-coated variety, more commonly seen, features harsh, wiry fur that creates the breed's characteristic beard and mustache around the muzzle, giving them the bearded appearance referenced in Belgian folk songs as "bearded dogs." This coat requires regular hand-stripping every three months to maintain proper texture, with dead hair removed by gently pulling between thumb and forefinger. The smooth-coated variety displays short, tight, glossy fur lying close to the body, requiring only weekly brushing and occasional bathing. Both coat types may appear in four recognized colors: red ranging from reddish-brown to rich mahogany, black and tan with rust-colored markings, solid black, or beige. The nose must always be black regardless of coat color, and some dogs display a black mask on the face. The breed's physical structure includes a short back, deep chest, and strong, straight legs that create their characteristic purposeful, jaunty trot reflecting their heritage as active ratters in Belgian stables. The tail is set high and carried upward in a curve. Their feet are small and round with thick black pads and nails. The Brussels Griffon's brachycephalic facial structure, characterized by the shortened muzzle and flat face, creates their distinctive pushed-in appearance and contributes to their expressive, almost comical facial features. The large, slightly protruding eyes combined with the short muzzle and broad skull create an impression of constant alertness and emotional awareness. Despite their toy classification, Brussels Griffons move with confidence and purpose, their stocky build and determined gait reflecting their working dog origins rather than the delicate nature some toy breeds display.
Key Characteristics
Brussels Griffons possess enormous personalities packed into tiny bodies, displaying a complex temperament that combines sensitivity, intelligence, devotion, and occasional stubbornness. These dogs form intensely strong bonds with one person in particular, becoming utterly devoted "velcro dogs" who follow their chosen person everywhere and demand to be included in all activities. They thrive on constant companionship and proximity to their special human, wanting to be in physical contact as much as possible, whether snuggling in a lap, sleeping in bed, or simply sitting on feet. This profound attachment makes them exceptionally loving and loyal companions for singles or couples, but their single-person focus can create challenges in larger families where they may show preference or even jealousy. Brussels Griffons do not handle being left alone well and are highly prone to severe separation anxiety, potentially becoming depressed, destructive, or developing excessive barking when isolated from their person for extended periods. The breed displays remarkable intelligence and keen alertness, quickly learning routines, reading human emotions with uncanny accuracy, and showing surprising problem-solving abilities. However, their smart, independent minds can manifest as stubbornness when they decide something doesn't interest them or serve their purposes. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, as Brussels Griffons have sensitive natures and respond poorly to harsh corrections or raised voices, which can cause them to shut down, become fearful, or grow more stubborn. They can be demanding and somewhat bossy, attempting to manipulate their owners if allowed, and they require firm but gentle boundaries from puppyhood to prevent the development of small dog syndrome where they believe they rule the household. Early socialization proves essential, as without it, Brussels Griffons may become overly shy or fearful of new people, situations, and other animals. Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons possess moderate to high energy levels and enjoy active playtime, though their exercise needs remain modest compared to larger breeds. Daily walks of thirty to forty-five minutes combined with indoor play sessions adequately meet their physical needs, and they excel at activities suited to their size including rally, obedience trials, and agility. They display a playful, sometimes mischievous side with their families and can be quite entertaining with their antics and expressive reactions. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs who will sound the alarm at anything unusual, though their small size obviously limits their guard dog capabilities. Brussels Griffons generally adapt well to various living situations from apartments to houses, making them ideal for urban dwellers, though their potential for nuisance barking requires training. They can be somewhat reserved or shy with strangers initially but typically warm up once properly introduced by their trusted person. While they can coexist with other pets when properly socialized, many Brussels Griffons prefer being the only pet and receiving undivided attention from their beloved owner.
Brussels Griffons generally enjoy good health with an average lifespan of twelve to fifteen years, though their unique physical characteristics predispose them to several breed-specific health concerns requiring awareness and proactive management. Their brachycephalic facial structure, characterized by the extremely short muzzle and flat face, creates the same respiratory challenges seen in Pugs and Bulldogs. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome encompasses multiple anatomical abnormalities including stenotic nares with narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palate that can partially obstruct the airway, and sometimes narrow trachea, all contributing to breathing difficulties, noisy breathing, snoring, and exercise intolerance. These dogs easily overheat because panting proves less effective for cooling, making them sensitive to hot, humid weather and requiring careful monitoring during warm conditions. They should never be left outside in heat and need access to air conditioning or fans during summer months. Dental disease represents one of the most significant and common health issues affecting Brussels Griffons due to their small jaws creating severe tooth crowding. With all forty-two adult teeth compressed into limited space, teeth grow at odd angles, overlap, and trap food particles and debris, promoting rapid plaque and tartar accumulation. This crowding predisposes them to periodontal disease, gingivitis, tooth decay, and premature tooth loss without diligent preventive care. Daily tooth brushing at home combined with professional dental cleanings performed regularly by veterinarians, often starting at young ages and occurring more frequently than in larger breeds, proves essential for maintaining oral health. Dental disease left untreated can lead to systemic infections affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver, making dental care absolutely critical for the breed's overall health and longevity. Ocular problems occur frequently in Brussels Griffons due to their large, prominent, somewhat protruding eyes and brachycephalic skull structure. Their eyes are vulnerable to trauma and injury from minor bumps or scratches that larger, more protected eyes would avoid. Progressive retinal atrophy, an inherited degenerative disease, causes gradual vision loss progressing to blindness with no available treatment. Cataracts develop in older dogs, causing clouding of the eye lens that impairs vision though surgical correction may be possible. Eye injuries including corneal scratches, irritation, and ulceration require prompt veterinary attention to prevent serious complications. Owners must watch for signs like squinting, redness, excessive tearing, or pawing at the face indicating ocular distress. Orthopedic issues include patellar luxation where the kneecap slips out of its groove, causing intermittent lameness and potentially requiring surgical correction in severe cases. Hip dysplasia, while more common in large breeds, also affects Brussels Griffons and can cause pain, arthritis, and mobility problems, usually managed through weight control, joint supplements, and medication though surgery may be necessary. Syringomyelia represents a rare but serious neurological condition affecting Brussels Griffons where fluid-filled cavities develop in the spinal cord, caused by Chiari-like malformation where the brain is too large for the skull cavity. This painful condition causes sensitivity around the head and neck, phantom scratching, weakness, and other neurological symptoms. The breed's small size and efficient metabolism make them prone to becoming overweight if overfed or under-exercised, which exacerbates joint problems and other health conditions. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate preventive care including vaccinations and parasite control, maintaining healthy weight, and selecting puppies from health-tested parents through reputable breeders help minimize health risks and ensure the longest, healthiest life possible for these charming companions.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua stands as the smallest recognized dog breed in the world, typically weighing between two and six pounds at maturity and reaching heights of only five to eight inches at the shoulder. Despite their diminutive size, these dogs possess a surprisingly sturdy and well-proportioned build, with bodies that are slightly longer than they are tall. The breed features a distinctive domed skull often described as apple-shaped, though some individuals display a more elongated deer-head conformation. Their large, round, expressive eyes are typically dark brown but can vary to lighter shades in dogs with lighter-colored coats, and their prominent ears stand erect when alert, though they may fold back according to the dog's mood. Chihuahuas come in two distinct coat varieties that share identical physical characteristics aside from hair length. The smooth-coat variety displays short, glossy fur that lies close to the body, while the long-coat variety features soft, fine guard hairs that may be straight or slightly wavy with attractive fringes on the ears and legs. The breed showcases remarkable color diversity with nearly thirty recognized colors and multiple marking patterns, ranging from solid blacks and whites to fawns, chocolates, creams, and even rare merle patterns. Some Chihuahuas develop a double coat with an undercoat, though many are single-coated. The breed's most distinctive features include their proportionally large ears set high on the head, short pointed muzzles, and moderately long tails carried high over the back or in a curve. Many Chihuahuas retain a molera, or soft spot on the skull similar to a human infant's fontanel, throughout their lives. Their compact frames feature well-muscled bodies despite their tiny stature, with straight legs set well under sturdy shoulders and small feet with well-separated toes.
Key Characteristics
Chihuahuas possess outsized personalities that belie their miniature stature, characterized by fierce loyalty, spirited confidence, and an unwavering devotion to their chosen humans. These intelligent dogs form exceptionally strong bonds with one or two people in particular, often becoming intensely attached and protective of their favorite person. Their bold temperament means they frequently fail to recognize their small size, readily confronting much larger dogs and showing no hesitation when facing perceived threats. This fearless attitude, combined with their natural alertness and keen senses, makes them excellent watchdogs who will sound the alarm at any unusual occurrence, though this can manifest as excessive barking if not properly managed. The breed displays remarkable intelligence and learns quickly, though their independent streak and occasional stubbornness can present training challenges. Chihuahuas are eager to please their owners once trust is established, making them quite trainable with patient, positive reinforcement methods. However, their sensitivity means they respond poorly to harsh corrections, and they may become anxious or defensive under stress. Proper socialization from an early age is critical to prevent the development of fearfulness, aggression, or territorial behavior toward strangers and other animals. Without adequate socialization, Chihuahuas can become overly protective, snippy with children, or reactive to new situations. Despite their reputation for being high-strung, well-socialized Chihuahuas are loving, affectionate companions who thrive on human interaction and attention. They are adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as their needs for companionship are met. These dogs prefer moderate activity levels and enjoy both playtime and cuddling sessions equally. Their tendency toward separation anxiety means they do best in households where someone is frequently home. While energetic and playful during active periods, Chihuahuas are also content to relax and make ideal lap dogs for those seeking a devoted, portable companion.
Chihuahuas are generally healthy dogs with impressive longevity, commonly living between twelve and sixteen years, with some individuals reaching eighteen years or more. However, their small size and specific anatomical features predispose them to several health concerns that potential owners should understand. Dental disease ranks as the most prevalent health issue in the breed, affecting the majority of Chihuahuas due to their small jaws and crowded teeth. The compact oral cavity promotes rapid tartar buildup, periodontal disease, and premature tooth loss, necessitating diligent daily tooth brushing and regular professional dental cleanings starting at a young age. Related to dental concerns, many Chihuahuas retain their deciduous teeth, requiring veterinary extraction to prevent complications. Cardiovascular disease represents another significant health challenge, particularly mitral valve disease, which can progress to congestive heart failure in older dogs. Heart murmurs are relatively common in the breed and should be monitored throughout the dog's life. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, poses a particular risk in young, small, or stressed Chihuahuas, potentially leading to weakness, seizures, or loss of consciousness if not promptly addressed. Owners must ensure regular feeding schedules with multiple small meals throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels. The breed is also susceptible to luxating patellas, where the kneecap slips out of its groove, causing intermittent lameness and potentially requiring surgical correction in severe cases. Neurological conditions include idiopathic epilepsy and the risk of hydrocephalus, particularly in individuals with large moleras. Eye problems occur frequently due to the breed's prominent eyes, including dry eye, corneal ulcers, and progressive retinal atrophy. Chihuahuas are prone to collapsing trachea, which causes chronic coughing and breathing difficulties. Their fragile frames make them vulnerable to traumatic injuries from falls, rough play, or encounters with larger dogs. Obesity presents a serious concern as excess weight exacerbates joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes. The breed's small size and limited body mass also make temperature regulation challenging, requiring protection from both cold and excessive heat. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate preventive care, and careful monitoring can help manage these health risks effectively.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Chussel may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Brussels Griffon and Chihuahua to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.