Affenpinscher

Toy

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Height: 23 - 30cm M | 23 - 30cm F

Weight: 3 - 6kg M | 3 - 6kg F

Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 Years

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Introduction

The Affenpinscher is a terrier-looking toy dog that originated from Germany. The breed is called “monkey dog” because of its scruffy moustachioed look. The Affenpinschers have since transformed from a regular ratter to a loyal companion dog.

Originally bred to kill vermin, the small-sized Affenpinscher exhibits fierce and spunky personality. Training can be a challenge because they can be stubborn and tend to lose interest.

The Affenpinscher’s medium-length wiry coat needs twice a week grooming to keep it neat and tangle-free.

History

Interestingly, the Affenpinscher is one of the oldest breeds of toy dogs, originating in Germany in the seventeenth century. The name is a German word that means monkey terrier. This breed was developed to get rid of rodents in kitchens, stables, stores, and granaries. The breed was Kennel Club registered since 1936 and became popular in the UK and the USA during the 1950s.

Appearance and Grooming

The Affen may be described as a terrier-looking toy dog, but it is actually part pinscher-schnauzer. It typically weighs 6–13 pounds and stands 23–30 centimetres tall. The breed is described in France as 'diablotin moustachu,' which means moustached little devil. It has a domed skull with short muzzle and ears. The standard colour should be black, but grey shading is acceptable.

Its hair is wiry in nature. It has shaggier hair at the head and shoulder part, and short coat at the back and hind. To keep a fluffy and softer coat, regular brushing, as well as clipping and trimming, is required. The Affen is included in the hypoallergenic category and shedding is very minimal.

The rest is basic grooming, such as trimming the nails every few weeks. Since small breeds are prone to gum disease, don’t forget to brush its teeth regularly for good oral health. Also check for any signs of inflammation like redness and other abnormalities. Make sure to check with a veterinarian if you find something not normal.

Temperament and Intelligence

This nosey toy dog is often described as amusing yet serious. It is a very playful and comical pooch who also loves attention. It is loving and loyal to its owners and generally gets along with other dogs. Some people misread its adorable monkey-like appearance as soft. However, it does not back down from threats of strangers or larger animals. It can be territorial when it comes to food and toys, so it is not recommended for homes with small children.

The Affenpinscher is confident, intelligent, and easy to train. Nevertheless, like most toy dogs, the Affen tends to be difficult to house-train as it is quick and sneaky. This can also be attributed to its willful and stubborn nature. It hates being left alone for long periods of time and can suffer from separation anxiety.

Like humans, each dog is unique regardless of its predisposed temperament known on its breed. Dogs or puppies who have experienced abuse will not behave the same way as those who have been raised in a loving family. Amongst the most significant factors that will determine a dog’s temperament are its environment, training, and socialisation.

Nutrition and Feeding

A typical serving for an adult Affenpinscher is one-fourth to one-half cup of excellent-quality dry dog food per day. It is worth noting that the amount of food depends on your dog’s age, size, build, activity level, and metabolism. Aside from the basic nutritional needs of its breed, you need to consider its needs based on its individual characteristics.

Typical calorie needs of an adult Affenpinscher per day:

Senior and less active: up to 350 calories daily
Typical adult: up to 500 calories daily
Physically active: up to 800 calories daily

As a small dog with a fast metabolism, frequent small feedings are ideal for an Affenpinscher. This encourages chewing given that this breed is prone to dental problems because of its small mouth. Whilst it may enjoy eating vegetables and fruits, meat should make up at least 80 per cent of its diet. Choose high-quality, small-breed dog food specifically designed with vital nutrients and smaller kibbles. It should contain calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth. For a healthy coat, incorporate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Including foods with probiotics like yogurt and cheese can promote a healthy digestive tract.

Health and Exercise

This toy dog is generally healthy, but it is predisposed to certain health risks usually related to its legs or hips. This includes hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Some would also have heart murmurs, digestive problems, and dental issues. The average life span of an Affen is between twelve and fourteen years.

As a moderately active dog, it requires little exercise such as short brisk walks or free time in the backyard. Supervise exercise time because this tiny dog won’t back down from other bigger animals. Always make sure to take your pooch to the vet for regular check-ups to ensure its optimum health.

Cost of Ownership

A well-bred pedigree Affenpinscher puppy registered with The Kennel Club can cost anywhere between £450 and £600. The cost of taking care of an Affenpinscher is estimated at £600- £1000 per year. This includes food, grooming, veterinary care, and miscellaneous expenses. Pet insurance and expenses incurred for special vet treatments and procedures are not included in the estimate. Pet insurance premium is calculated based on several factors including the dog's age, breed, where the owner lives, and whether the dog has been spayed or neutered.

Affenpinscher Breed Highlights

The Affen is a small dog weighing only 6–13 pounds, so he is easy to carry and doesn’t take up much space.
He has monkey-like face and sports a rough and wiry coat.
The Affen is a spunky, extraordinarily confident, and adventurous dog.
The Affen is affectionate and highly devoted to his family.
He doesn’t need a lot of exercise.
He may be wilful and stubborn, but he is intelligent and easy to train.