Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher

The character of the Affenpinscher is quite complicated. They are very jealous and can be jealous of their owner to other pets and even to children if they decide they are getting more attention. Pets like to be the center of attention and to be petted and groomed all the time. They don’t like to bark, but there will be a lot of noise from them if they sense danger.

Breed Information

Another NameMonkey Terrier
OriginGermany
Height25-30 cm
Weight4-6 kg
FurStiff, thick, straight or with a slight break, irregularly fit; undercoat soft, slightly wavy
ColorBlack, brown, black with red tan, blue, red
Lifespan11-14 years
FCI ClassificationPinscher and Schnauzer – Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
GroupDecorative dogs, dogs for the apartment
Price$300-500

Breed Photos

Origin History

Affenpinscher dogs come from southern Germany, where they were primarily used to catch rats. Because of their small size, the dogs were good at it. They lived with their owners in their bedrooms and protected them from various rodents.

In the early stages of their development, dogs were larger and had a more comprehensive coat color range.

Soon Affenpinscher began to be used as a pet dog for playing with children, walking, and entertainment. In the XIX century it was costly to buy a dog, and only aristocrats and foreigners had such an opportunity.

In the Middle Ages, many famous artists painted Affenpinscher in paintings. For example, Renaissance artists Albrecht Dürer and Jan Van Eyck.

The dogs were officially registered in Germany in 1913.

Because of World War II, the dogs were on the verge of extinction, and scientists had to restore the breed. Catherine II brought the dog to our territories from Germany, and the dogs became popular among the ladies.

Appearance

Dogs do not differ according to sex. The height of male and female dogs is 25-30 cm. The body weight is 4-6 kg. Despite the small size, the body of the pet is healthy and slender. Wool is stiff and thick, with a soft undercoat. The neck and head are covered with wool longer than the body. There are also eyebrows, which protect the eyes from water ingress, and due to them, there is a frame around the eyes.

The most popular color is black, but it can also be brown, silver, red. You may have a large spot on the chest.

Affenpinschers usually have their tails cropped and remain high planted and also covered with not long hair.

Character

The character of the Affenpinscher is quite complicated. They are very jealous and can be jealous of their owner to other pets and even to children if they decide they are getting more attention. Pets like to be the center of attention and to be petted and groomed all the time.

They don’t like to bark, but there will be a lot of noise from them if they sense danger.

Pets love to travel, and it’s convenient to do so with them.

Affenpinschers are very stubborn and opinionated. They can’t stand loneliness and always want to accompany their owner. They will never be bored with him, as the dogs can often act like children, play, and have fun.

Care

The best way to keep an Affenpinscher is a family where he will be the only animal. They are aggressive to cats, afraid of other dogs, and they will want to eat hamsters and other rodents, as it is in their nature.

You should also consider choosing this dog if you have young children. Affenpinschers can take toys, things, and food from children.

You can easily live in an apartment where there is little space. You can stock up on lots of different toys, as pets love to play.

The fur on the muzzle can be trimmed a little, as it can get dirty during feeding due to its length. It is also recommended to trim the hair in the eye area to prevent it from getting into the eyes.

Try to systematically brush the coat, walk it on a leash, and check the cleanliness of the ears, eyes, and teeth.

Training

Affenpinschers are quite challenging to train because they are stubborn and do not want to do what they are told. For practical training, it is recommended to use the form of play with constant interest. At the same time, it is necessary to give the pet time to play, be whimsical, and rest.

Dogs can learn and obey commands, but you will have to be patient and calm.

Common Diseases

The health and immunity of Affenpinschers are robust. They rarely suffer from hereditary diseases. Most often, dogs suffer injuries to their bones and muscles, as they are not very strong. With improper exercise and an active lifestyle, fractures and dislocations can occur.

You should also get your teeth checked and have regular hygienic cleanings by your doctor.

Nutrition

Nutrition should be balanced, and you need to choose a good diet. For this, it is essential to consult a doctor. It is required to make sure that the affenpinscher does not overeat. The basis of the diet should be dairy products, fruits, vegetables.