Brian and Judy Lee discovered the Brussels Griffon breed when a college friend introduced them to his puppy.They loved its demeanor, facial expressions, affection and being hypoallergenic. They welcomed their first pup, Sophie, in 2009, cherishing her until she crossed the rainbow bridge in 2020. Five years later, Brian and Judy opened their hearts and home again to the pitter patter of puppy paws, excited barks and lots of love. Born in January 2025, the Lees brought Aja to her forever home in April.

 

Aja is named after Steely Dan’s sixth studio album and single of the same name. Judy loved the song and thought the name was the perfect moniker for their new puppy.  Aja has a red, coarse coat with a distinct beard and dark, expressive eyes. True to her breed, Aja is sensitive, inquisitive, alert, and loving—and always eager for attention. Though Judy says Aja favors Brian, he believes her affection is evenly shared since he takes her for walks and Judy feeds her. Either way, she’s almost always found curled up in one of their laps.

 

Aja loves her twice-daily walks with Brian, spending most of the time sniffing with her nose to the ground. She’s calm and confident around other dogs, observing them quietly without barking, regardless of size. In the backyard, she avoids the pool and simply watches squirrels, rabbits, and birds pass through her territory. At just nine months old, she’s not a chewer—but can’t resist shredding a tissue or napkin if she finds one. The Lees avoid giving Aja human food, though she occasionally snags a crumb when the grandkids—who love little Aja—visit. At night, she heads straight to her kennel in the living room for a restful sleep.

 

The Brussels Griffon originated in 19th-century Brussels, Belgium, but nearly went extinct during the First and Second World Wars. By the end of WWII, Belgium had almost no native Brussels Griffons left, and it was only due to the vigilance of dedicated breeders, primarily in the UK, that the breed survived. More recently, George Lucas drew inspiration from his own Brussels Griffon puppy and its human-like facial features for the physical appearance of the EWOKs from “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi”.

 

After waiting years to welcome another puppy, Brian and Judy couldn’t be happier with their new fur baby. They look forward to many joyful years with sweet, affectionate Aja.

To learn more about how you can become a partner with Stroll Buffalo Creek please reach out to Teri Preas
teri.preas@n2co.com
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