Belgian Griffon
Breed Description

The Belgian Griffon is known by several names throughout different regions and registries. Most commonly, this breed is referred to as the Brussels Griffon, reflecting its Belgian capital city origins. In some European contexts, you may encounter the name Griffon Bruxellois, which is the French designation for the breed. The smooth-coated variety is sometimes called the Petit Brabancon, a name derived from the Belgian national anthem "La Brabançonne." Additional regional variations include Griffon Belge and simply "Griff" as an affectionate nickname used by enthusiasts. These various names all refer to the same delightful toy breed that has captured hearts worldwide with its distinctive appearance and engaging personality.

The Belgian Griffon stands as one of the most distinctive and charismatic members of the toy group, combining an almost human-like expression with an undeniably confident personality that far exceeds their diminutive stature. These compact companions possess an irresistible charm that has captivated dog lovers for generations, earning them devoted followings among those who appreciate their unique blend of sensitivity and self-importance.

Weighing no more than twelve pounds and standing between seven to ten inches at the shoulder, the Belgian Griffon presents a well-balanced, square-proportioned silhouette that suggests both sturdiness and elegance. Their most striking feature remains their remarkably expressive face, which seems to convey an almost human-like intelligence and emotional depth. The large, dark eyes are set wide apart and possess a lustrous quality that immediately draws attention, while their black nose and distinctive facial structure create an expression that can range from comically serious to endearingly inquisitive.

The Belgian Griffon's personality is perhaps their most endearing characteristic, combining an almost comical self-importance with genuine sensitivity and deep affection for their human companions. These dogs possess an innate understanding of human emotions and often serve as intuitive emotional support for their families. Despite their toy classification, they display remarkable courage and will not hesitate to alert their owners to potential threats, though they are more likely to use their voice than physical confrontation.

Their intelligence manifests in various ways, from their ability to read human facial expressions and moods to their quick learning of household routines and expectations. Belgian Griffons thrive on human companionship and can become anxious or destructive when left alone for extended periods. They are happiest when included in daily family activities and often develop a particular attachment to one family member, though they can be loving with everyone in their household.

The breed's grooming needs vary significantly between the two coat varieties. Rough-coated Belgian Griffons require hand-stripping several times per year to maintain their proper texture and appearance, though many pet owners opt for clipping for convenience. Smooth-coated varieties need minimal grooming beyond regular brushing and occasional baths. Both varieties benefit from regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care to maintain optimal health.

In terms of exercise requirements, the Belgian Griffon is remarkably adaptable to their owner's lifestyle. While they enjoy daily walks and playtime, they are equally content with indoor activities and mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games provide excellent outlets for their intelligent minds. Their small size makes them ideal apartment dwellers, though they appreciate access to secure outdoor spaces where they can explore safely.

The Belgian Griffon's size and build make them excellent travel companions, and many owners find them to be ideal lap dogs who are equally comfortable in a carrier or exploring new environments. Their alert nature and small stature mean they require protection from larger dogs and potential hazards, but their confident personality often leads them to believe they can handle much larger challenges than their size would suggest.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

General Appearance: A toy dog, intelligent, alert, sturdy, with a thickset, short body, a smart carriage and set-up, attracting attention by an almost human expression. There are two distinct types of coat: rough and smooth. Except for coat, there is no difference between the two.

Size, Proportion, Substance: Weight usually 8 to 10 pounds, and should not exceed 12 pounds. Type and quality are of greater importance than weight, and a smaller dog that is sturdy and well proportioned should not be penalized. Proportion - Square, as high as long measured from point of shoulder to rearmost projection of upper thigh, from ground to withers. Substance - Thickset, well balanced, medium bone, smooth easy gait, should not be spindly nor cobby.

Head: The head is the most important characteristic of the breed, having an almost human expression. Eyes - Set well apart, very large, black, prominent, well open, the lashes long and black. In no case should the white of the eye show. Ears - Set rather high, small and carried semi-erect. They are preferably cropped to a point. Skull - Large and round with a domed forehead. Nose - Always black, extremely short, the tip being set back deeply between the eyes so as to form a lay-back. The nostrils large. Disqualification - Dudley or butterfly nose. Lips - Black, not pendulous but well brought together, giving a clean finish to the muzzle. Bite - Undershot. The incisors of the lower jaw should extend over the upper incisors. The lower jaw is prominent.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Classification: Group 9 - Companion and Toy Dogs, Section 3 - Small Belgian Dogs. The FCI standard recognizes three varieties: Griffon Bruxellois (rough red coat), Griffon Belge (rough black or black and tan), and Petit Brabançon (smooth coat in various colors).

General Appearance: The Brussels Griffon is a small, well-balanced toy dog, alert and sturdy, nearly square in outline. The distinctive feature is the almost human expression, enhanced by the prominent chin, large eyes, and beard-like facial furnishings in rough-coated varieties.

Important Proportions: The length of the body measured from the point of shoulder to the point of buttock, should as near as possible equal the height at the withers. Behavior and Temperament: Well balanced, alert, vigilant, self-important, very attached to his master. Head: The head is large in comparison to the body and has an almost human expression. The skull is large and round. The forehead is well domed. The nose is black and extremely short; tip of nose is set deeply between the eyes so as to form a lay-back.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC recognizes the Brussels Griffon as a companion breed, emphasizing the breed's role as a devoted household companion rather than working function. The standard focuses on the breed's characteristic expression, proper proportions, and sound temperament suitable for family life.

General Appearance: The Brussels Griffon is a toy dog of Belgian origin, known for its almost human-like expression and sturdy, compact build. The breed should appear well-balanced and confident, with an alert demeanor that reflects intelligence and self-assurance.

Temperament: The ideal Brussels Griffon is alert, intelligent, and sensitive, with a balanced temperament that makes them excellent companions. They should be neither shy nor aggressive, displaying confidence without being overly bold or reckless.

Other Organizations

The Kennel Club (UK) follows similar standards to the FCI, recognizing the breed's Belgian origins and emphasizing the importance of the distinctive facial expression and proper proportions. The Canadian Kennel Club aligns closely with AKC standards but places additional emphasis on temperament testing and health screening.

Many national kennel clubs worldwide have adopted variations of these standards, generally agreeing on the key characteristics: the almost human expression, compact square build, distinctive coat varieties, and the breed's role as a devoted companion animal. Minor variations exist in color preferences and specific measurement requirements, but the fundamental breed type remains consistent across registries.

The Belgian Griffon's fascinating history begins in the cobblestone streets and bustling markets of 19th century Brussels, where small, wire-haired terrier-type dogs worked as ratters in stables and hansom cabs. These early ancestors, known as Griffon d'Ecurie or Stable Griffons, were purely functional working dogs, prized for their ability to keep vermin populations under control in the horse-drawn transport systems that were the lifeblood of the growing city.

The transformation from working terrier to refined companion dog began around the 1870s when Belgian coachmen and stable workers began selectively breeding their best ratting dogs with various toy and terrier breeds. The introduction of Pug bloodlines, brought to Belgium through trade relationships with the Orient, dramatically altered the breed's appearance, contributing to the distinctive flat face and large, prominent eyes that remain hallmarks of the breed today. This crossbreeding also introduced the smooth coat variety, initially called the Petit Brabançon after Belgium's national anthem.

Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium played a crucial role in the breed's development and rise to prominence in the late 1800s. Her passionate devotion to these small dogs elevated them from working-class companions to royal favorites, leading to increased interest among European nobility and serious dog fanciers. Under royal patronage, breeders focused on refining the breed's temperament and appearance while maintaining their spirited personality and sturdy constitution.

The breed's development involved careful outcrossing with several other breeds to achieve the desired characteristics. Ruby and King Charles Spaniels contributed to coat color variations and gentle temperament, while Yorkshire Terriers may have influenced the breed's coat texture and alert expression. Affenpinscher bloodlines likely contributed to the breed's distinctive facial features and confident personality, creating the complex genetic heritage that defines the modern Belgian Griffon.

By the 1880s, the breed had become sufficiently established to warrant formal recognition. The first breed standard was written in Belgium in 1883, and the breed quickly gained popularity throughout Europe. Three distinct varieties emerged: the rough-coated red Griffon Bruxellois, the rough-coated black or black-and-tan Griffon Belge, and the smooth-coated Petit Brabançon available in various colors.

The breed's journey to America began in the 1890s when wealthy Americans traveling in Europe discovered these charming companions and brought them back across the Atlantic. The American Kennel Club granted recognition to the breed in 1910, initially registering them simply as Brussels Griffons regardless of coat variety or color. Early American breeding programs focused on establishing consistent type while adapting to local preferences and showing practices.

Both World Wars severely impacted the breed in its native Belgium, with breeding programs disrupted and many bloodlines lost during the occupations and wartime hardships. The dedication of a few committed breeders in Belgium and other European countries prevented the breed from disappearing entirely, though genetic diversity was significantly reduced. Post-war rebuilding efforts required careful outcrossing and international cooperation to restore the breed's health and population.

The 1997 film "As Good As It Gets," starring Jack Nicholson and featuring a Belgian Griffon named Verdell, brought unprecedented attention to the breed. While this exposure increased public awareness, it also led to concerns about puppy mills and inexperienced breeders attempting to capitalize on the breed's sudden popularity. Responsible breed organizations worked diligently to educate potential owners about the breed's specific needs and characteristics.

Modern Belgian Griffon breeding emphasizes health, temperament, and preservation of breed type while addressing genetic concerns that affect small breed populations. International cooperation between breed clubs has helped maintain genetic diversity, and modern health testing allows breeders to make informed decisions about breeding partnerships. The breed remains relatively rare, which has both protected it from commercial exploitation and presented challenges in maintaining healthy breeding populations.

Today's Belgian Griffon retains the essential characteristics that made their ancestors successful working dogs: intelligence, courage, adaptability, and strong bonds with human companions. While their role has shifted from practical pest control to beloved family member, their fundamental personality traits remain unchanged, connecting modern dogs directly to their working heritage in the streets of old Brussels.

The Belgian Griffon's original function as a vermin controller in Brussels' bustling transportation hubs shaped many of the breed's most distinctive characteristics that persist today. Working alongside coachmen and stable hands, these small but mighty dogs needed to be fearless enough to confront rats and mice, agile enough to navigate confined spaces, and intelligent enough to work independently while remaining responsive to human direction. Their success in this role required a unique combination of prey drive, problem-solving ability, and strong partnership with their human colleagues.

In their working capacity, Belgian Griffons developed exceptional alertness and territorial awareness that made them invaluable as dual-purpose dogs. While their primary job involved pest control, they naturally evolved into effective watchdogs, alerting stable workers to intruders or unusual activity around valuable horses and equipment. This protective instinct was balanced by their ability to differentiate between legitimate threats and routine business, making them reliable partners in busy commercial environments.

The transition from working terrier to companion animal didn't eliminate the breed's functional abilities but rather redirected them toward human companionship and emotional support. Modern Belgian Griffons excel as therapy and emotional support animals due to their intuitive understanding of human emotions and their strong desire to provide comfort to their chosen people. Their size makes them practical for hospital visits, nursing home programs, and other therapeutic settings where larger dogs might be impractical.

Contemporary Belgian Griffons serve effectively as alert and alarm dogs in residential settings, though their role has evolved from aggressive pest control to subtle home security. Their keen hearing and natural suspicion of unfamiliar sounds makes them excellent early warning systems, while their small size and generally non-aggressive nature makes them suitable for urban environments where more traditional guard dogs might cause neighbor relations problems.

In competitive venues, Belgian Griffons demonstrate versatility across multiple dog sports and activities. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them capable performers in obedience competitions, where their small size is no handicap to precision and responsiveness. Rally obedience has become particularly popular among Belgian Griffon owners, as it combines the breed's natural alertness with their desire to work closely with human partners.

The breed's natural grace and showmanship translate well to conformation showing, where their distinctive appearance and confident demeanor make them natural performers. Many Belgian Griffons seem to genuinely enjoy the attention and routine of dog shows, displaying the same self-importance that served their ancestors well in busy stable environments. Their easy-to-transport size makes them practical for handlers who participate in extensive show circuits.

Agility competition has gained popularity among Belgian Griffon enthusiasts, though their approach differs from that of traditional agility breeds. While not the fastest dogs on the course, Belgian Griffons often display remarkable problem-solving abilities and creativity in navigating obstacles. Their strong handler focus and desire to please can overcome their occasional independence when properly motivated.

Modern apartment living has created a niche for Belgian Griffons as urban companions, where their moderate exercise needs and quiet indoor behavior make them ideal residents in close-quarters living situations. Their alertness serves apartment dwellers well, as they naturally monitor corridor sounds and building activities without becoming nuisance barkers when properly trained.

The breed's intelligence and food motivation make them excellent candidates for scent work and nose work activities, modern interpretations of their ancestral hunting instincts. These activities provide mental stimulation that satisfies their need for purposeful activity while strengthening the human-dog bond that is central to their well-being. Their size allows them to search areas that might be challenging for larger breeds, echoing their original work in confined stable spaces.

Senior companion work has become an increasingly important function for Belgian Griffons, as their calm indoor demeanor and intuitive responsiveness to human needs make them excellent partners for elderly individuals. Their exercise requirements align well with the capabilities of older adults, while their affectionate nature provides essential companionship. Their size makes them manageable for individuals with limited physical strength, yet substantial enough to provide meaningful interaction and emotional support.

The Belgian Griffon's behavioral profile reflects a fascinating blend of confidence and sensitivity that creates a uniquely engaging companion animal. These dogs possess an almost human-like awareness of social situations and emotional atmospheres, often displaying uncanny ability to read their owners' moods and respond appropriately. This emotional intelligence manifests in various ways, from offering comfort during stressful periods to sharing in celebratory moments with obvious enthusiasm and joy.

One of the most distinctive behavioral characteristics of the Belgian Griffon is their tendency toward selective attachment, often choosing one family member as their primary person while maintaining affectionate relationships with others. This preference isn't typically exclusive or possessive but rather represents a deep bond that influences their daily routines and preferences. Their chosen person often becomes the focus of their attention, the source they look to for guidance in uncertain situations, and the individual whose location they monitor throughout the day.

Belgian Griffons display remarkable self-awareness and dignity that sets them apart from many other toy breeds. They seem to possess an inherent understanding of their own importance and value, carrying themselves with confidence that can sometimes border on haughtiness. This self-assurance serves them well in social situations with larger dogs, though it can occasionally lead them into confrontations where their courage exceeds their physical capabilities.

The breed's intelligence manifests in their ability to learn household routines quickly and adapt their behavior accordingly. Many Belgian Griffon owners report that their dogs seem to understand complex scheduling patterns, anticipating meal times, walk schedules, and family activities with remarkable accuracy. This cognitive ability extends to problem-solving situations, where they often demonstrate creative approaches to achieving their goals, whether that involves accessing favorite resting spots or obtaining desired attention from their humans.

Separation anxiety can be a significant behavioral concern for Belgian Griffons, stemming from their intense attachment to their human families and their historical development as constant companions to working people. This anxiety doesn't typically manifest as destructive behavior but rather as depression, loss of appetite, or excessive vocalization. Prevention through gradual conditioning and providing appropriate mental stimulation during alone time proves more effective than attempting to address severe separation anxiety after it develops.

Their alertness makes Belgian Griffons naturally responsive to environmental changes, and they often serve as excellent barometers for household tension or unusual activity. This sensitivity can be both an asset and a challenge, as they may become stressed by family conflicts or disruptions to routine that other dogs might ignore. Creating stable, predictable environments helps these dogs thrive and express their most positive behavioral traits.

Play behavior in Belgian Griffons tends to be intelligent and interactive rather than purely physical. They often prefer games that involve their humans directly, such as hide-and-seek, puzzle toys, or training sessions disguised as play. While they enjoy toys, they frequently show more interest in activities that combine mental stimulation with social interaction, reflecting their working heritage where cooperation with humans was essential for success.

The breed's social behavior with other dogs requires careful consideration and management. While generally friendly and non-aggressive, their fearless nature and tendency to stand their ground regardless of size differences can create dangerous situations with larger, more assertive dogs. Early socialization helps them develop appropriate social skills, but ongoing supervision remains important throughout their lives.

Belgian Griffons often display what owners describe as "cat-like" behaviors, including preferences for elevated resting spots, careful grooming habits, and selective social interaction. They may observe new situations from a distance before committing to participation, and they often maintain favorite vantage points where they can monitor household activities while remaining comfortably settled.

Training responses in Belgian Griffons reflect their intelligence and desire to please, but also their independent thinking and occasional stubborn streaks. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods that engage their minds and respect their dignity. Harsh corrections or repetitive drilling typically backfire, as these dogs seem to lose interest or become deliberately uncooperative when they perceive training as unfair or boring. Successful training approaches treat them as intelligent partners rather than subjects to be dominated.

Their food motivation can be strong, making them responsive to treat-based training, though they may develop preferences for specific rewards and become less motivated by routine treats. Many owners find that varying rewards and incorporating praise, play, and social interaction along with food treats maintains their dogs' engagement in training activities. Their intelligence means they quickly recognize patterns and may anticipate training sequences, sometimes performing behaviors before being asked.

The breed's behavioral adaptability makes them suitable for various lifestyles, from active families to quieter households. They seem to naturally adjust their activity levels to match their environment and their owners' preferences, though they always maintain their alert, interested demeanor. This adaptability, combined with their emotional intelligence, explains much of their success as companion animals across diverse living situations and family structures.

The Belgian Griffon's integration into family life represents one of the breed's greatest strengths, as these dogs possess an almost supernatural ability to understand and adapt to family rhythms and relationships. Their emotional intelligence allows them to recognize individual family members' personalities, preferences, and needs, often adjusting their behavior accordingly to provide appropriate companionship to each person. This adaptability makes them excellent family members who contribute to household harmony rather than disrupting it.

Within multi-generational families, Belgian Griffons often demonstrate remarkable versatility in their relationships. They may serve as energetic playmates for older children who understand their size limitations, gentle companions for elderly family members who appreciate their calm indoor demeanor, and loyal partners for adults who value their intelligence and responsiveness. This flexibility allows them to find meaningful roles with various family members simultaneously.

The breed's relationship with children requires careful consideration and management, as their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from young children who haven't yet learned appropriate handling techniques. Belgian Griffons typically do best with children over eight years old who can understand and respect their need for gentle treatment. They often form strong bonds with children who demonstrate consistent kindness and appropriate interaction, becoming devoted companions who seem to understand their protective role in the child's life.

Their interaction with infants and toddlers needs careful supervision, not because of aggression concerns, but because Belgian Griffons may become anxious around unpredictable small children or may be accidentally injured by normal toddler behavior. Many Belgian Griffons learn to associate babies with special quiet times and will adjust their behavior accordingly, often choosing to observe from a safe distance until children become more predictable.

In households with multiple adults, Belgian Griffons may display preferences but rarely become possessive or defensive about their chosen person. They seem to understand that different family members offer different types of interaction and companionship, and they often develop specific relationships with each person based on that individual's personality and interests. This maturity in their social understanding contributes to their success as family dogs.

Their role in daily family routines often evolves to include various helpful functions that take advantage of their alertness and intelligence. Many families report that their Belgian Griffon serves as an unofficial family coordinator, alerting everyone to visitors, monitoring the household for unusual activity, and even seeming to remind family members about routine activities or schedule changes. This involvement in family life satisfies their need for purpose and strengthens their bonds with all family members.

Belgian Griffons adapt well to modern family schedules that involve various work, school, and activity commitments. Their moderate exercise needs and contentment with indoor activities make them suitable for busy families, while their alertness and responsiveness make them excellent companions for family members with varying availability. They seem to understand that different family members have different schedules and needs, adjusting their expectations accordingly.

Multi-pet households often work well for Belgian Griffons, provided introductions are handled carefully and other pets respect their need for personal space. They typically coexist peacefully with cats, particularly if raised together, and often develop close friendships with other small to medium-sized dogs. Their lack of dominance aggression makes them compatible with many other pets, though their fearless nature means they may need protection from larger, more assertive animals.

The breed's response to family conflicts or stress demonstrates their emotional sensitivity and desire to maintain household harmony. Belgian Griffons often become subdued during family arguments or periods of high stress, and they may attempt to provide comfort to distressed family members. This sensitivity means they thrive in stable, harmonious households but may require additional support and reassurance during difficult family periods.

Their ability to recognize and respond to individual family members' emotional states makes them excellent emotional support animals for families dealing with various challenges. They seem to naturally gravitate toward family members who need comfort, often providing their presence as a calming influence during stressful situations. This intuitive responsiveness to human emotions represents one of their most valued characteristics as family companions.

Belgian Griffons often develop special relationships with older family members, seeming to understand and appreciate their need for gentle, consistent companionship. They frequently become particularly attached to grandparents or elderly relatives, providing both entertainment and emotional support while requiring relatively minimal physical care from older handlers. Their size makes them manageable for individuals with limited mobility, while their alertness provides a sense of security.

Family travel and activities often include Belgian Griffons easily, as their small size and generally good travel behavior make them practical companions for many family adventures. They adapt well to hotel stays, camping trips, and visits to relatives, provided they remain with their family unit. Their alertness in new environments can be helpful for family security, while their social nature allows them to meet new people and experience new places confidently when properly introduced.

The Belgian Griffon generally enjoys good health and longevity, with many dogs living well into their mid-teens when provided with appropriate care, nutrition, and veterinary attention. However, like all purebred dogs, they are predisposed to certain genetic health conditions that prospective owners should understand and monitor throughout their dog's life. Responsible breeding practices, including health testing of breeding stock, have significantly reduced the incidence of serious hereditary conditions, but vigilance remains important for maintaining optimal health.

The breed's distinctive flat-faced structure, while charming, does create some respiratory considerations that owners must understand and manage. Brachycephalic airway syndrome affects many Belgian Griffons to varying degrees, potentially causing breathing difficulties during exercise, stress, or hot weather. While severe cases may require surgical intervention, most dogs live comfortable lives with appropriate management that includes avoiding excessive heat, maintaining proper weight, and recognizing signs of respiratory distress.

Dental health requires particular attention in Belgian Griffons due to their small mouth size and potential for overcrowded teeth. Regular dental cleanings, both professional and at-home care, help prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss, pain, and systemic health problems. Many owners find that starting dental care routines early in puppyhood helps their dogs accept necessary dental maintenance throughout their lives.

Weight management plays a crucial role in Belgian Griffon health, as excess weight can exacerbate breathing problems, stress joints, and contribute to various other health issues. Their food-motivated nature and relatively low exercise requirements can make weight gain easy, so careful monitoring of food intake and body condition is essential. Most Belgian Griffons thrive on measured meals rather than free-feeding arrangements.

The breed's longevity means that age-related health monitoring becomes increasingly important as dogs reach their senior years. Regular veterinary examinations, potentially including blood work to monitor organ function, help detect and address age-related changes before they become serious problems. Many Belgian Griffons remain active and alert well into their teens with appropriate senior care management.

Skin and coat health varies between smooth and rough-coated varieties, with rough-coated dogs sometimes experiencing skin sensitivity related to hand-stripping or grooming practices. Regular grooming, appropriate coat care products, and attention to any skin changes help maintain healthy skin and coat condition throughout the dog's life.

Exercise-induced collapse, while rare, has been reported in some Belgian Griffons and may be related to their brachycephalic structure or other genetic factors. Owners should be aware of their dog's exercise tolerance and watch for signs of excessive fatigue, breathing difficulty, or coordination problems during or after exercise. Most dogs can enjoy normal activity levels with appropriate monitoring and common sense precautions.

Reproductive health considerations are important for Belgian Griffons, as their small size and large head structure can create whelping difficulties. Cesarean sections are common in the breed, and breeding should only be undertaken by experienced breeders who understand the potential complications and have veterinary support available. Spaying and neutering of pet dogs helps eliminate reproductive health risks while providing other health benefits.

Environmental health factors particularly important for Belgian Griffons include temperature regulation, as their flat faces make them susceptible to heat stroke, and protection from larger dogs or rough play that could cause injury. Their alert nature and tendency to investigate their environment means owners should be vigilant about potential hazards that could cause injury to small, curious dogs.

Preventive care, including appropriate vaccinations, parasite prevention, and regular wellness examinations, provides the foundation for long-term health in Belgian Griffons. Working with a veterinarian familiar with toy breeds and brachycephalic dogs ensures that care recommendations are appropriate for the breed's specific needs and potential health concerns.

If you're looking to adopt a Belgian Griffon, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Belgian Griffons waiting for their forever homes.