The Affenspinscher is thought to be one of the oldest toy breeds still in existence. The small dog dates back to France, Germany and Munich. This “monkey-terrier,” as the name translates to, was wildly popular in the 17th century. Had you been able to walk through Central Europe in this time period, you would have found these dogs on farms, in stables, and in stores. The dogs were highly useful as ratters. After some time, these dogs were bred to be even smaller and kept in women’s bedrooms. Earning the nickname “little devil with a moustache,” these small dogs chased away mice. Today, the dog is kept as a family companion and a watchdog.
The Affenpinscher is a small, square-proportioned dog that is compact and sturdy. It has a thick, abundant coat that needs regular brushing.
Personality
The Affenpinscher is a very active and energetic little dog. It’s name means “monkey terrier” in German, and it lives up to his name: It is a playful ball of energy, but can be stubborn and mischievous. They love to make noise and make good watchdogs, but are obviously too small to protect you from real danger. They will try though – they are fearless! Although they don’t need long walks, they need to exert energy on a daily basis. They love indoor games that allow them to use their intelligence. They get on well with other dogs, but are usually shy or suspicious of strangers.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Terrier |
| Function: | Companion |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Moderate Cold |
| Group: | Toy |
| Life Span: | 10-12 Years |
| Nicknames: | Affen, Affie, Monkey Dog |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Affenpinscher Build Information
The Affenpinscher is a small, square-proportioned dog that is compact and sturdy. It has a thick, abundant coat that needs regular brushing.
| Size: | Toy |
| Length (Male): | 8-12 in. |
| Length (Female): | 8-10 in. |
| Weight: | < 14 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 1 – 3 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Both |
Behaviour and Personality
The Affenpinscher is a very active and energetic little dog. They love to make noise and make good watchdogs, but are obviously too small to protect you from real danger. They will try though – they are fearless! Although they don’t need long walks, they need to exert energy on a daily basis. They love indoor games that allow them to use their intelligence. They get on well with other dogs, but are usually shy or suspicious of strangers.
| Activity Level: | Moderately Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Moderate |
| Barking: | Noisy |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | None |
| Energy Level: | Moderately Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Moderate Friendly |
Appearance
The Affenspinscher does need a bit of attention to its coat. This dog is not for an owner who does not want to have a dog that needs grooming. The Affenspinscher needs to be professionally groomed twice each year. A groomer will clip your dog’s coat and give it a bath for you. Aside from these grooming appointments, your dog will need to be brushed or combed at least twice each week. You will need to clip your dog’s toenails every month, and its ears will need to be cleaned every two weeks. Care should be taken to clip hair around from the eyes in between grooming to prevent discharge from accumulating.
| Colors: | Black, Black & Tan, Gray, Red, Silver |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | High Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Wiry |
Affenpinscher Common Health Conditions
Affenpinschers are a generally healthy breed of dog. These small animals may be prone to patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes Disease, hip dysplasia, and heart murmurs. If you choose to buy a puppy, do so from a responsible breeder. Look for a puppy with parents that have been certified through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for healthy hips and elbows. Your puppy’s parents should also have been certified by the Canine Eye Registry Foundation for healthy eyes. When you purchase a puppy from parents that have been health tested, you are less likely to have an animal with hereditary diseases. Be prepared to face some of these issues if you purchase your puppy from a pet store, a hobby breeder, or a rescue.
Affenpinscher Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Called the “monkey dog” due to its small, monkey-like face. Perfectly suited for apartment life. Should be trained with positive rewards and motivation. Available in red, black and tan, silver, gray, or black. Tenacity is a highly-desired trait.
| Training: | Moderately easy to train |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | No |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | No |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | No |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | No |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
