Affenpinscher

Description: The Affenpinscher is the smallest of the pinschers and schnauzer. It originated in Germany as the dog that makes people laugh and can be traced back as far as the seventeenth century as a method of controlling rodents. Affenpinschers are well balanced, little, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog with intelligence and demeanor that make it them a good house pet. The Affenpinschers comical face earned it its name; German for "monkey-like terrier." In France the Affenpinscher is described as the "diablotin moustachu" or the "moustached little devil." Extremely intelligent and affectionate with people, the naturally scruffy-look of the Affenpinscher makes it appealing. Affenpinschers carry their head with confidence, their skull is round and domed, ears can be erect, semi-erect, dropped or cropped erect. Affenpinschers tail is naturally long and curves over their back, it can be docked or carried erect. The Affenpinscher is an active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The Affenpinscher breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members and also very protective of them. The Affenpinscher is a loyal little dog who enjoys being with their family.

Other Names: Monkey Dog

Type: Companion Dog

Height: 9 - 11 in.
Weight: 7 - 10 lb.

Color: Preferable black, but gray, silver, red, black and tan, and beige shading are permissible. Sometimes white on their chest.
Coat: Rough, thick, dense. Shaggier and less harsh on their neck, chest, stomach and legs.

Temperament: The Affenpinscher is alert, quite, inquisitive and non-argumentative. Lively and self confident. Can also be stubborn and mischievous.
With Children: Yes, the Affenpinscher will get along well with children but is not recommended for families with small children.
With Pets: Yes but sometimes aggressive towards other dogs.
Special Skills: Vermin destroyer

Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Very Low

Care and Exercise: Brushing two to three times a week. Ear, tooth, and nail care are required weekly. The Affenpinscher requires very little exercise. Walks or access to a secured yard where they can play for hours.
Special Needs: Grooming, socialization, training.
Training: Obedience training should begin at a very early age.
Learning Rate: Medium - High

Activity: Moderate - Very High
Living Environment: Suitable breed for apartment or country living. Great companion for people with limited physical activity. Needs a firm owner.

Health Issues: Usually very healthy. Good grooming will prevent skin and coat problems. The Affenpinscher has fine bones and should never jump off of furniture. Special care is needed their teeth. Susceptible to eye ulcers and infection, Legg-Perthese disease, luxating patellas, patent ductus arterious.

Life Span: 14 - 15 years
Litter Size: 2 - 3

Country of Origin: Germany
History: Little is know about the origin of the Affenpinscher. They can be traced back to the 1600s, though some say it is an ancestor of the Brussels Griffon. The Affenpinscher was created to be a ratter, working to remove rodents from kitchens, granaries and stables. Once a prized possession of royalty it made its way into a few paintings by Old Masters. Affenpinschers are considered one of the oldest toy dogs. Today they are somewhat rare in the USA.