“Verdell” the Brussels Griffon

Here’s a few things you might not know about “Verdell” a Brussels Griffon who appeared in the 1997 film, ”As Good as it Gets:”

•  “Verdell” was actually played by six different dogs named “Timer,” “Sprout,” “Debbie,” “Billy,” “Parfait,” and Jill the Dog, but Jill (who’d completed a 15 week training program) was billed as the movie’s star;

•   In one famous scene, “Verdell” mimics Jack Nicholson’s OCD traits by stepping over cracks in the sidewalk. Filmmakers accomplished this by placing little obstacles on the cracks so that the dog had to step over them. They then removed the obstacles digitally in post-production;

•   Betty White, an animal rights activist, was offered the Shirley Knight (Beverly Connelly) role, but turned it down when she learned of how the dog’s character would be mistreated in the movie;

•   Brussels Griffons also appeared in the films, “First Wives Club” and “Gosford Park,” as well as on the sitcom “Spin City.”

The breed has a reputation for charming naughtiness, probably a legacy from terrier ancestors. She won’t think twice about unrolling toilet paper or upsetting waste baskets if she thinks she’s been treated unfairly, left behind or snubbed.

Image of a Brussels Griffon by DJ Rogers – k9artgallery
http://dogprintsgallery.com/
www.etsy.com/shop/k9artgallery

10 thoughts on ““Verdell” the Brussels Griffon”

      • Mary Ann, you could do no better than to check with the American Brussels Griffon Club (https://abga.club). There you can find a breeder’s directory and probably a rescue committee.

    • Great taste, Mary, but we’re not an adoption or puppy locating service. We suggest you contact the Brussels Griffon Club of America where you can find a breeder or inquire about a rescue: https://abga.club

  1. I have 2 girl and a boy they are 6weeks 5 days old brother and sister,

  2. Saw the movie when it first came out. Wife said she wants one and I said “I think they’re called Brussels Griffon.
    See OUR fourth BG, Gunnar’s photo.

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