The famous Affenpinscher is primarily known for its great personality. This breed is loyal, curious, and amusing. They are tiny, almost human-toy size, but it doesn’t stop them from showing their determination.
For a small breed, they live incredibly long, between 12 to 15 years. Discover 15 fast facts about interesting Affenpinscher.
9. They Are Called “Monkey Dogs”
The adorable Affenpinscher is mostly known for its small size and vivid look. Their appearance is so unique that it has been described in many distinct ways.
They have often been called monkey dogs because of their goofy personality. In French, they are named ”diablotin moustachu” which literally means ”mustached little devil.”
In recent history, savvy Star Wars are very affectionate toward this breed. Apparently, people can’t agree if small Affenpinscher is more like Wookies or Ewoks. This cute little devil was extremely popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, mostly in Europe. Their initial purpose was to work in stables and shops, chasing mice and rats.
8. You Can’t Train Them
According to experts, they are easy to train. Moreover, you will have to convince them that you will be their friend. They are highly intelligent, so you will have to befriend them.
Since they are loyal and affectionate, you can expect a willingness to please you. However, they love to entertain, so well-structured training might help. If needed, you should think about hiring a professional.
As a toy dog breed, you can indeed expect some difficulties while training. It can, and it won’t be effortless to housetrain your Affenpinscher. However, you shouldn’t give up. Crate training is recommended.
7. They Are Not Ok With Smaller Pets
The unique Affenpinscher was breed to catch mice and rats. Usually, in a way, that urge is still alive in their DNK. Therefore, they will not do well with rodent pets, such as hamsters, gerbils, ferrets, and so on. In general, dogs are capable of having best friends in other pets, unless they are trained to do otherwise.
So, your Affenpinscher will get along nicely with other dogs in the household. Moreover, they will get along fine with cats as well, as long as they are raised together.
6. They Are Really Small
Dogs come in all sizes. From small breeds to large breeds, they are unique and interesting in their appearance. When it comes to Affenpinschers, they are considered to be extremely small, toy size small dogs.
They are usually 9.5 to 11.5 inches, at the withers, and they weight between 7 to 9 pounds. Their coat is typically black, but they do come in grey, red, tan, beige, and silver.
They are part of the Pincher family, and initially, they are from Germany. Over time, breed refined by occasional crosses with the German SIly Pinscher, Pug, and German Pinscher.
This breed was recognized in 1936 by AKC, but WWII affected the popularity of this breed. Ever since they remained rare even in Germany. Nowadays, they are mostly in America and Germany.
5. They Are Energetic
You would expect that toy size dogs prefer to be couch potatoes all day long. After all, they are so small that they get tired fast, no? Well, with this breed, you will have a lot of free time. Bear in mind, that this breed doesn’t love to be left alone.
The Affenpinscher truly lives up to its name monkey terrier in more than looks. They are terriers at heart. They are busy, stubborn, bold, and above all, they are all about being active. Mischief is their second name. Next to that, they are playful, and they love to monkey around.
Like any small dog in general, they tend to bark a lot and even climb. That’s why it’s essential to train them and work with them as much as possible, or they will develop the small dog syndrome. Their nature is gentle, and they will get along with other animals as well, expect the smaller rodents, as we have mentioned above.
They are great family dogs, as long as you educate children on how to behave around dogs. Overall, your Affenpinscher has a great sense of humor, and he won’t be scared to show it.
4. They Shed
Whoever said that smaller dog means no-maintenance, was wrong. The truth is that smaller dogs can occasionally be less demanding in terms of grooming and shedding.
However, this is tightly connected with the breed. Some breeds just shed a lot, while others smell less. However, one thing is mutual to all dogs with hair on their bodies – they shed, but in really low volume.
Moreover, you can expect your Affenpinscher to shed. His hair is wiry and is often considered hypoallergenic. This trait is not to be mistaken with ‘non-shedding.’ Remember: all dogs shed or produce dander.
So, weekly brushing is mandatory to keep the coat shiny, tangle-free, and healthy. Regular brushing serves as a great bonding moment and lets you see if your dog has any fleas. This way, you can see the dog’s skin and notice on time any skin change.
3. They Are Great For Apartment Living
Since they are smaller dog breed, the Affenpinschers’ are great for city life and apartment living.
They will gladly walk often and mingle with everyone in the doggy park. However, don’t forget that they have a strong tendency to bark, so make sure that you address that possible issue at an early age.
Since he is small, the Affenpinscher should be a full-time housedog, with only access to a backyard if you are house-based. The yard should be fully fenced, and he should be supervised.
Don’t let the Affenpinscher size fool you – he will confront a bigger dog, or any bigger animals, which can often result in tragedy.
2. They Are Healthy
Affenpinschers are overall healthy dogs, and responsible breeders will always screen them for common health issues. Common medical conditions that can occur in this breed are:
- heart anomalies
- vision problems
- hip dysplasia
Normally, like any other shorter-faced breeds, Affenpinschers can experience breathing problems during high temperatures. They can easily overheat, so it’s important to be extra cautious during the summer.
Don’t forget: dogs don’t sweat as humans do, to keep cool.
Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Patella Evaluation
1. Their Liter Is Small
Due to their small size, the Affenpinscher gives birth to only three puppies per year. To learn how often you can breed your male dog, you can here.
This breed is related to Miniature Schnauzer.
Affenpinscher At A Glance
Affenpinscher is a type of terrier and proud member of the pinscher-schnauzer subgroup. Initially, Affenpinscher was created in Germany. This small breed is also an old breed, dating from the 17th century.
Once WWII was ended, the Affenpinscher found its way to the States. They are playful, active, and known as the “‘mustachioed devil’ due to their long mustaches and playful and restless nature. Although they are playful and thankful when it comes to grooming and maintenance, the breed is not yet wholly accessible.
Breeders blame WWII for the low popularity of the breed. Still, the highest number of this breed can be found in the States and Germany. They are small, covered with wiry and long hair.
The tail is always erected and short. Overall, this breed is adventurous, not very loud, and loves spending time outside.
The Bottom Line
Affenpinschers are a great addition to the family if you are looking for an intelligent and active dog. This breed is excellent if you are looking for a canine who loves to be active, to demonstrate his playful nature, and is not afraid to take a stand.
This is a generally healthy breed, with minor health problems. Make sure that you never leave your Affenpinscher without supervision. No dog should never be left unsupervised with a child.
