The Brussalier is a cross between the pure breeds Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Griffon Brussels. It is a small dog, eminently suited to be a family pet and lap dog, and can charm practically anyone.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or Cavie, is one the smallest among Spaniels, and one of the more more popular, especially in the UK. The modern breed is the result of efforts to revive the Cavie's original look. In the 17th century, it had been interbred with brachycephalic types, and began to acquire the flat, pushed-in face and muzzle. Breeders wishing to return the breed to what they believed its original standards were made efforts to breed out the flat-nosed characteristic, and the Cavie of today no longer shares so much of the characteristics of breeds such as Pugs and Pekingese.
The Brussels Griffon, often identified with two other breeds, the Petit Brabancois and the Griffon Belge, is known for its almost-human expression, seeming to show worry at times, and is a spunky, spirited, playful Belgian breed. It is descended from ratters and was also initially put to work ridding barns and homes of vermin. It was popular with both the wealthy classes and the common people in the 19th century.
