The Affenpinscher is a small, terrier-like dog with a wiry coat. It has a square body and round head with prominent eyes. It is an energetic, playful, and mischievous breed that requires consistent training and leadership. Affenpinschers tend to get along with other pets if socialized but can be wary of strangers without proper socialization and training.

1. Affenpinscher
All you need to know

2. The Affenpinscher is a small dog with a shaggy, wiry-type coat. The hair on
the face is longer than the rest of the body giving it a distinct look. It is a
smaller version of a working terrier and is not a delicate dog. It has a square
body, with a moderately broad, deep chest. The head is round with a
pronounced stop, which is the transition area from the backskull to the
muzzle. The lower jaw is undershot, and broad enough for the lower teeth
to be straight and even, protruding below the dog's short nose. The
prominent, round eyes are black. The neck is short and arched and the limbs
are straight and well boned. The tail is carried high and docked to two-thirds
its length. The hairy ears are customarily docked, pointed and erect,
however some countries have banned docking of animal's tails and ears. The
coat is usually black or dark gray, but can also come in lighter gray, silver,
red, or black and tan. The undercoat is slightly curly
Description

3. The Affenpinscher has a terrier-like personality. They tend to get along with other dogs and pets,
especially when they are raised with them. They are busy, bold, inquisitive and stubborn, but they
also love to monkey around, being playful and mischievous. A lively, sharp-witted little dog that is
courageous and confident. A fearless defender, the Affenpinscher will quickly become an
authoritarian if owners do not give the proper rules, boundaries, limitations and constantly be this
dog’s pack leader. It is very affectionate and amusing. This friendly little dog enjoys being with its
family. It needs consistent, firm training. Make sure there is some variety in the training so the dog
does not become bored. They learn commands very quickly. Some may be difficult to housebreak.
They are not recommended for very young children, simply because most people who own the
breed treat them like small dogs, lacking the proper pack leadership, causing negative behaviors to
come out in the dog. Children should be taught how to properly handle a dog. Owners need to
consistently be the dog's pack leader to avoid the tendency to guard their food and toys. They like
to hike and go camping. Without leadership, it may unwisely challenge large dogs and other large
animals. They tend to bark and even climb. This little dog does best with a family who likes
entertainment and has a very good sense of humor. Any dog that displays growling, snapping or
biting is lacking in pack leadership. These issues can be corrected as soon as the humans take
control back from the dog.
Temperament

4. Height: 10 - 15 inches (25 - 38 cm)
Weight: 7 - 8 pounds (3 - 3.36 kg)
Height, Weight

5. Some are prone to fractures, slipped stifle, PDA
(patent ductus arteriosus), open fontanel and
respiratory problems in hot weather.
Health Problems

6. The Affenpinscher is good for apartment life. They are
very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
These dogs are sensitive to temperature extremes.
Overly warm living conditions are damaging to the
coat.
Living Conditions

7. The Affenpinscher needs a daily walk. While out on the
walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the
person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads
the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Play will
take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with
all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk.
Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to
display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good
romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced-in
yard. Teach them to enter and exit door and gateways
after the humans.
Exercise

8. About 10-12 years.
Life Expectancy

9. 1 - 3 puppies, average 2
Litter Size

10. The Affenpinscher's harsh coat should never be
clipped short because this ruins the coat for many
years. It should be brushed and combed weekly and it
may be necessary to pluck it. A dog-trimming
specialist usually does this but it is possible to learn
how to do it yourself. Show dogs require stripping.
Hair sometimes grows in the corners of the eyes,
causing irritation; they should be dealt with promptly.
This breed sheds little to no hair.
Grooming

11. No exact data about the Affenpinscher's origin exists, but it is
one of the most ancient of the toy breeds. It is certainly related
to the Brussels Griffon and probably to the terrier. It's named
"Monkey Dog" because of its monkey-like facial structure and
expression. It is believed that the Affenpinscher originated in
Germany, and the name Affenpinscher translated from German
is "Monkey Terrier." It is believed that the first Affenpinschers
were larger in size as they were farm dogs that worked as
ratters. The Affenpinscher was miniaturized and became a house
pet during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is still a ruthless hunter
of mice and an outstanding watchdog. Today the Affenpinscher
is primarily a companion dog. The Affenpinscher was admitted
to the American Kennel Club's studbook in 1936.
Origin

12. Terrier, AKC Toy
Group

13. APRI, FCI, AKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, CKC,
ACR, DRA, NAPR
Recognition

14. The End