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With more than 400 recognised dog breeds worldwide, it's reasonable to suggest most people wouldn't be capable of identifying them all by appearance. But one woman has found herself responding to the same strange question she is often asked when out with her dogs.

The owner, who uses the handle @branstonandpickle01 on social media, detailed how passers-by frequently stop her to ask why she's put wigs on her dogs. Entertained by the misunderstanding, she turned to TikTok to clarify matters - confirming that her dogs actually aren't wearing hairpeices. They're in fact Brussels Griffons, a breed renowned for their naturally dishevelled, almost human-resembling hair.

In the footage, she showcases her pets, highlighting their scruffy, bouffant-style coats and clarifying that it's merely part of their natural look. Despite the persistent queries, she maintains she hasn't been creating miniature wigs or arranging their hair for appearance.

The clip rapidly accumulated attention online, with numerous viewers equally amused by the confusion.

Responding to the post, one user remarked: "Groomer here - I can confirm they wouldn't be wigs. And can confirm the breed are cheeky bums by nature. 'Butter wouldn't melt' appearance though!!"

Another groomer contributed: "They always look like they're not guilty of what you're accusing them of."

A third user quipped: "On behalf of Branston - mum I just woke up, why is the camera in my face? I could not care less if they think it's a wig - how good does their hair look when they've just woken up?"

The bewilderment isn't wholly unexpected, as Brussels Griffons are renowned for their distinctive looks, frequently resembling miniature, expressive humans owing to their prominent eyes and characteristic facial fur. According to the American Kennel Club, the breed combines a substantial personality within a compact frame, generally weighing between five and 15 pounds.

They are characterised as "smart, devoted, and comically self-important dogs", which numerous owners claim perfectly captures their temperament. The organisation also emphasises their signature appearance, observing their "almost human" eyes, paired with a beard and moustache, lend them the look of a "worldly, French-speaking philosopher".

Despite their somewhat solemn expression, Brussels Griffons are recognised as playful, gregarious and brimming with personality - something that evidently radiates throughout the viral footage. And while the owner may continue receiving enquiries about imaginary wigs, it appears her dogs' innate appeal - and memorable hair - is entirely part of their attraction.