Korthals Griffon Breed Guide

Dec 03, 2024

Say hello to the Korthals Griffon, all rugged, scruffy, and ready for action. With their distinctive wire coat, friendly eyes, and boundless enthusiasm, they’re the ultimate outdoorsy companion, whether you’re heading for a weekend hike or just a walk to the local park.

Bred to be a versatile hunting dog, the Korthals Griffon is happiest when they’re out in nature, exploring every scent and corner of the woods. They’ve got the heart of a hunter but the soul of a best friend, always ready to stick by your side (unless they catch a whiff of something interesting, then all bets are off).

But don’t be fooled by their serious working-dog background—Griffons are also affectionate and loyal companions. They may look a little scruffy, but they’ve got a soft side that loves a good cuddle after a long day of adventuring. In short, they’re the best of both worlds: rugged and lovable.

THE BASICS:

Category: Gundog
Size: Medium (23-27 kg for males, 18-23 kg for females)
Exercise Needs: 1-2 hours per day
Grooming: Moderate
Coat: Rough, wiry, and waterproof
Shedding: Low, with stripping needed
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, hyperthyroidism and progressive retinal atrophy
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Home Needs: A garden to explore, a family who loves the outdoors, and someone who can appreciate their scruffy good looks
Sociability: Friendly with everyone, especially if they come bearing treats, and they’re good with kids and pets

HISTORY: THE SHAGGY GENIUS OF HUNTING DOGS

The Korthals Griffon’s roots date back to the 19th century, thanks to a Dutchman named Eduard Karel Korthals, who set out to create the perfect versatile hunting dog. He wanted a breed that could handle all sorts of terrain—whether it was running through dense forests, wading through rivers, or navigating the coldest marshes—while also being easy to train and loyal to its owner.

What he came up with was a dog that could hunt, point, and retrieve like a pro, but also be a devoted family member when off duty. The breed’s distinctive wiry coat wasn’t just for show either; it’s waterproof, weather-resistant, and tough enough to handle all the outdoor elements. Basically, if Korthals had lived in the modern era, this dog would be featured on an adventure travel Instagram account.

Today, the Korthals Griffon remains a favourite for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike, known for its stamina, intelligence, and unshakeable loyalty.

Korthals Griffon PERSONALITY: FRIENDLY, FUN, AND ALWAYS READY FOR ACTION

If there’s one thing to know about the Korthals Griffon, it’s that they are always ready—ready for walks, ready for games, ready to hunt, ready to chase that ball you didn’t even throw yet. They’ve got energy for days, and they’ll happily spend it running circles around you.

But it’s not all go-go-go with the Griffon. While they’re high-energy outdoors, they have a calm, affectionate side that shines through once they’re back at home. They bond strongly with their families, and while they might give strangers the side-eye at first, they’re quick to warm up (especially if said strangers have a snack in hand).

They’re also great with kids, making them an ideal family dog if your family loves outdoor activities. Just remember that their natural instincts mean they’re always on the lookout for something to chase, whether that’s a bird, squirrel, or a leaf blowing in the wind. A well-secured garden is a must for these curious explorers.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A Korthals Griffon NEED?

The Korthals Griffon is not the type of dog that’s content with a quick walk around the block. Nope, this breed needs action, and lots of it. Plan for at least 1-2 hours of exercise each day—whether that’s a hike in the woods, a jog through the park, or a game of fetch (they’ve got Olympic-level retrieving skills, after all).

They thrive on mental stimulation too, so mixing in some training or puzzle toys will keep them happy and out of trouble. If you’re into dog sports like agility or tracking, your Griffon will probably ace those activities without breaking a sweat. Their stamina is impressive, and they’ve got a natural knack for anything involving running, retrieving, or exploring.

But don’t worry—after all that adventure, they’re happy to crash at your feet (or on the sofa, if you let them). Just be prepared for a few muddy paw prints, because they never miss an opportunity to get dirty.

HOW TO GROOM A Korthals Griffon: THE SHAGGY LOOK COMES WITH SOME MAINTENANCE

The Korthals Griffon’s signature look—shaggy, wiry, and effortlessly rugged—doesn’t come without a little upkeep. While they don’t shed much, their thick double coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting and keep them looking sharp (or as sharp as a scruffy dog can look). A good brush once or twice a week should do the trick.

Their coat is designed to protect them from the elements, but it can also trap dirt, leaves, and whatever else they’ve picked up on their latest outdoor adventure. You might want to keep a towel handy after a rainy day walk. They don’t need frequent baths, but when they do, be sure to use a dog-friendly shampoo to keep their skin and coat healthy.

And don’t forget the essentials: nail trimming, ear cleaning, and brushing those teeth—especially after they’ve dug up something “interesting” in the garden. A pack of Scrumbles Gnashers Dental Dog Treats will help with that last part.

HEALTH: STURDY BUT KEEP AN EYE ON THE JOINTS

Korthals Griffons are generally healthy, but like many active breeds, they can be prone to certain issues, particularly hip dysplasia. Regular check-ups with the vet are essential to catch any potential problems early. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which affects their eyesight, is another condition to be aware of, so it’s important to choose a reputable breeder who tests for this.

Despite these possible health issues, the Korthals Griffon is typically a robust, hardy breed that thrives with a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and lots of love. And, of course, don’t forget those Scrumbles treats to keep them in tip-top shape!

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE KORTHALS GRIFFON:

Waterproof Wonder: Their rough, wiry coat isn’t just for looks—it’s waterproof, so they can splash through streams and puddles without getting soaked (lucky them, not so lucky for your car interior).
The Beard: That distinctive beard doesn’t just add to their hipster look—it also helps protect their face while rummaging through bushes and undergrowth. Plus, it’s perfect for collecting food crumbs.
Olympic-Level Retrievers: If there was a fetch competition in the dog Olympics, the Korthals Griffon would take home gold. Every. Single. Time.

LIVING WITH A KORTHALS GRIFFON: A LIFETIME OF ADVENTURES

Living with a Korthals Griffon is like having your own personal hiking buddy who’s always ready for the next big adventure. They’re perfect for active families or individuals who love spending time outdoors, whether that’s hiking, running, or just wandering through the woods. Their loyalty and affectionate nature make them fantastic companions but be ready to keep them entertained—this isn’t a breed that’s content to lie around all day.

That said, after a long day of running, fetching, and exploring, they’re more than happy to curl up beside you for some well-deserved rest. Just don’t be surprised if they insist on joining you on your next outdoor excursion—it’s in their nature.

IS THE KORTHALS GRIFFON THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a friendly, energetic, and adventurous dog with a dash of scruffiness, the Korthals Griffon might just be the perfect fit. They’re great for families who love the outdoors, and they’re always up for a challenge—whether that’s chasing a ball or sniffing out the most exciting smells in the neighbourhood.

With the right training, a good grooming routine, and plenty of exercise, the Korthals Griffon will reward you with loyalty, love, and enough muddy paw prints to last a lifetime.

Why Scrumbles is Perfect for the Korthals Griffon

Scrumbles is the ideal choice for Korthals Griffon owners for several reasons:

High-Quality Ingredients: Griffons are tireless workers and devoted companions, and they need high-quality nutrition to fuel their busy lives.
To fuel their antics, they need premium nutrition. Scrumbles uses only high-quality, natural ingredients, steering clear of artificial additives and fillers, so your Griffon stays healthy and happy.
Coat and Skin Health: With their distinctive, wiry coats, Korthals Griffons need extra care to keep their fur in top condition. Scrumbles recipes are enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and keep their coats soft and manageable. We've got just the thing to help: Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food or Salmon Wet Food for optimal coat care.
Digestibility: All our recipes start with the gut, enriched with pre, post and probiotics, to help ensure easy digestion. Check out our Sensitive Stomach Dog Food for little ones with extra sensitive tums.
Sustainability: As a member of 1% for the Planet and certified B Corp we're committed to eco-friendly practices with recyclable packaging and responsible ingredient sourcing.
Trustworthy Nutrition: Don't just take our word, we're rated 4.5 on Trustpilot with over 5k five star reviews.

With their adventurous spirit, loyalty, and friendly personality, the Korthals Griffon is a wonderful breed for anyone who loves the outdoors and is ready for a little extra scruff in their life. Whether they’re exploring a forest or cuddling up after a long day of activity, they’re sure to be your steadfast companion through all of life’s adventures. Just make sure to bring the treats!