Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog. It makes a good house pet due to its intelligence and cordialness towards other animals. With its big beard and long eyebrows, the dog is visually exquisite but tough in nature, as it was bred to chase vermin. In France the breed is described as the "moustached little devil," due to its mischievous trait.
Height
9-11.5 in.
Weight
7-10 lbs
Life Expectancy
11-14 yrs.
History of the Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers can trace their roots back to Germany in the 1600s. Back then, they were somewhat larger in size and were bred for their expert skill as a ratter. They helped to exterminate rodents in stables and in households. And they were beloved family pets as well.
It’s speculated that German pinschers and pugs contributed to the breed. Affenpinschers helped to spur the development of multiple breeds, including the Brussels Griffon and miniature schnauzer.
Read more: Affenpinscher dog
Characteristics of the Affenpinscher
The affenpinscher is full of personality and loves to engage in amusing antics. This dog can have a strong-willed temperament and doesn't always want to comply with training.
Energy Level
Exercise Requirements
Playfulness
Affection Level
Friendliness Dogs
Friendliness Pets
Friendliness Strangers
Watchfulness
Trainability
Grooming Requirements
Heat Sensitivity
Vocality
Affenpinscher Care
Some lively indoor games, short walks on a leash or outdoor romps can meet the exercise requirements of the active and energetic Affenpinscher. The dog cannot live outside but loves to play outdoors.
Health
Affenpinschers are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders will screen their stock for health conditions such as luxating patella, heart anomalies, vision problems, and hip dysplasia. Like other shorter-faced breeds, Affens can experience breathing problems during hot weather if they are permitted to overheat and then have difficulty panting in order to lower their body temperature, as dogs don't sweat to keep cool.
Grooming
Affenpinschers don’t shed much, but they do need a fair amount of grooming. Use a slicker brush and then a comb at least twice a week to remove loose fur and prevent the coat from matting.
Exercise
Aim to provide at least 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise for an affenpinscher. A couple of brisk walks and playtime should be sufficient. Dog sports and puzzle toys also can serve to provide physical activity and mental stimulation.
Training
Affenpinschers are courageous, bold, and often feisty. Basic obedience training is recommended. The breed has an undeserved reputation as being difficult to train because Affenpinschers are independent minded and can be stubborn. The key is that they are very intelligent and generally eager to please the humans they have bonded with. Keep in mind that they are easily bored and tend to lose interest during long training sessions.
Nutrition
The Affenpinscher should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian's supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level.
Problems
Affenpinschers are typically a healthy dog breed, but they still are prone to some hereditary health issues1, including:
- Luxating patella
- Hip dysplasia
- Heart problems
- Eye issues
- Breathing problems and overheating
Pros
- Loyal and affectionate
- Minimal shedding
- Lively and playful personality
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Requires some involved grooming
- Doesn't always get along well with kids
Did You Know?
The Affenpinscher's fur is wiry and often considered hypoallergenic.
Affenpinschers can make for excellent apartment dogs as long as they get out for enough exercise each day.
Affenpinschers originated hundreds of years ago in Germany to be rat and other rodent exterminators, especially in stables.
