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The Affenpinscher originated in Germany. A sturdy stout breed often referred to as the “monkey dog” is actually dubbed after its nickname as “affe” in German, is translated to monkey or ape. This breed historically dates back to the 1600s and was originally physically larger, but as time has progressed the breed has become slightly smaller in height and weight. The ancestral history of the affenpinscher is in connection with the miniature Schnauzer and the Brussels Griffon.
As most high energy dogs do, the Affenpinscher requires a lot of exercise regularly. This breed is not intended to be the family couch potato, as he/she was bred to be alert and quiet yet always quick to their feet. They are a very curious breed yet can be very stubborn and mischievous. They are loving, affectionate dogs and are protective of family members.
They enjoy the company of other dogs and other pets but be cautioned that small pocket pets (i.e. Mice, rats, rabbits etc) are considered not the best animals to surround this breed with as they were originally bred to be hunters of rats, and small rodents. When it comes to food or toys the affenpinscher can be a bit spoiled and enjoys those possessions that belong to him only for himself, so young children are not recommended for this breed. This confident dog is fearless when it comes to a potential threat and has no problem rising to the occasion toward an aggressor.
Weighing in at anywhere between 7-9 pounds (3.1-3.6 kgs) and averaging 9-11.5 inches high, the Affenpinscher is a small breed of dog with a monkey like face. They have dark round eyes and ears that are cropped to the point and set high up on the head. But don’t let this little dogs size let you think he‘s not tough as nails. Bred for the pure intent of hunting rodents, the Affenpinscher has a rough shaggy coat that withers to a shorter length past the neck making his head resemble the mane of a lion.
The coat is wiry to the touch and very shaggy, pulling off the rolling right out of bed look. UK breed standards require that this dogs coat MUST be black, but the AKC is a bit more forgiving allowing the coat colour to be tan, silver, red, and gray but black being the most preferred colour.
As most breeds today are prone to, the affenpinscher is liable to developing hip dysplasia and unfortunately being a small dog breed is also prone to slipped stifles and a collapsible trachea resulting in breathing difficulties and apnea. As a tip, most small breeds are recommended to be walked with the use of a harness instead of a collar so that when they pull on the leash, it restricts their body, and doesn’t put stress on their neck and throat area. Cataracts are also not uncommon to the breed but as a whole are a healthy happy go lucky dog.
This stubborn little guy needs quite a bit of training as they have a “my way or the highway” attitude at times. They have a fairly high learning ability as they are quite inquisitive. When it comes to house training, Affenpinschers can be quite difficult to train as this is when their stubborn streak comes into play, so just make sure you as the owner sets that straight right away and to be consistent.
For a breed with a short thick coat, this dog needs to be brushed about 2-3 times a week as the coat can get quite shaggy. Coat plucking should be done at the owners preference. Baths aren’t recommended more then once every 2 or 3 months as it dries out the skin. On the whole, the affenpinscher is easy to maintain, as long as they get their exercise, proper grooming, and love, he or she will be one happy puppy.
This breed is categorized in the Toy Group but their small size is deceiving to their personalities. They are ideal for apartment living and are popular for people that have a dwelling that is small or for city residents.
The affenpinscher life span is averaged to be around 14-15 years making them around 105 in doggy years! They have about 2 or 3 pups per litter. When attaining a puppy Affen, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
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