Our story
Bred with Purpose, Raised with Love
Griffons in Paradise is a small, dedicated kennel nestled in the Pacific Northwest, where we raise Brussels Griffons as cherished family members first and show dogs second.
How it began
A Passion Two Decades in the Making
My journey with Brussels Griffons began in 2002 when a rough-coated red boy named Cosmo walked into my life and refused to leave. His enormous personality in that tiny, whiskered body was unlike anything I had ever encountered in a dog.
Every puppy born here spends its first weeks in our living room, handled daily, exposed to household sounds, and loved by our family before it ever meets its new one. That foundation, we believe, is what makes a Griffon a true companion for life.
What we believe
Our Breeding Philosophy
Temperament First
A Brussels Griffon should be bold, curious, and deeply bonded to its people. We select for stable, outgoing temperaments above all else — a dog that is a joy to live with is the highest compliment we can receive.
Health Before Ribbons
No dog enters our breeding program without a full panel of health clearances. Championships are meaningful only when the dog behind the title is structurally sound and genetically healthy.
Type & Standard
We breed to the AKC Brussels Griffon standard with an emphasis on correct head type, proper coat texture, and the characteristic self-important expression that makes the breed unmistakable.
Lifelong Partnership
Our relationship with puppy families does not end at go-home day. We are available for the life of every dog we place — for questions, guidance, and the occasional photo update that makes our day.
Health testing
Our Health Testing Protocols
Brussels Griffons are a generally healthy breed, but responsible breeders test for the conditions known to affect the breed. Every dog in our program is cleared before being bred.
OFA Hip Evaluation
RequiredRadiographs submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and graded by board-certified radiologists. We breed only dogs rated Good or Excellent.
OFA Cardiac Exam
RequiredAnnual cardiac auscultation by a board-certified cardiologist to screen for mitral valve disease and other congenital heart conditions.
OFA Eye Exam (CAER)
RequiredAnnual ophthalmic examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, submitted to OFA's Companion Animal Eye Registry.
Patella Evaluation
RequiredOFA patellar luxation evaluation to screen for loose kneecaps, a condition that can affect small breeds.
DNA Health Panel
RequiredComprehensive genetic panel through Embark Veterinary covering over 250 genetic health markers and traits relevant to the breed.
Syringomyelia / CM Screening
RecommendedMRI screening for Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia, conditions that can affect brachycephalic breeds including Brussels Griffons.
Affiliations & memberships
Breed Club Affiliations
We are active members of the organizations that set and uphold the standards for our breed. Membership means accountability — to the breed, to buyers, and to the dogs themselves.
American Kennel Club
Breeder of Merit
AKC Breeder of Merit status recognizes breeders who have demonstrated a commitment to health testing, titling, and responsible breeding practices over many years.
American Brussels Griffon Association
Member in good standing
The ABGA is the AKC parent club for the Brussels Griffon. Members adhere to the ABGA Code of Ethics, which governs health testing, placement practices, and breeder conduct.
Pacific Northwest Brussels Griffon Club
Founding member
A regional specialty club dedicated to education, rescue support, and promoting the breed in the Pacific Northwest through shows, seminars, and community events.
Ready to Learn More?
We love talking about Brussels Griffons. Whether you have questions about the breed, our program, or current availability, we would love to hear from you.