Fast Facts
Group classification: Toy
Country of origin: Germany
Date of origin: 17th century
Group classification: Toy
Country of origin: Germany
Date of origin: 17th century
Weight (M): 7 - 9 lb
Height (M): 9.5 - 11.5"
Life expectancy: 12 - 14 years
Weight (F): 7 - 9 lb
Height (F): 9.5 - 11.5"
Height (M): 9.5 - 11.5"
Life expectancy: 12 - 14 years
Weight (F): 7 - 9 lb
Height (F): 9.5 - 11.5"
General Description of the AffenpinscherThe Affenpinscher is a small, terrier-like dog famous for its monkey-like expression. The skull is domed with a short muzzle and an undershot or level bite. The small ears are small and stand erect when cropped - erect, semi-erect or drop when uncropped. The eyes are round, dark and gleaming, and enhance the monkey-like expression. The body is small and proportional to the head, with a bit of tuckup and a slight curve of the croup. The tail is carried erect and can be docked to 1 – 2” or left natural. The coat is rough, dense and of moderate length for such a small dog. Coloring can be black, silver, gray, black and tan, red or beige; dogs that have a coat color other than black may still have a black mask. Despite the Affenpinscher’s facetious personality, its gait is notably confident and serious. Affenpinscher TemperamentSmall and spunky, the Affenpinscher is the only breed that goes by the name “monkey.” The Germans chose the word Affen, monkey, to describe this clownish little dog; the French call it diablotin moustachu, mustachioed little devil. Both names are quite accurate. Owing to its terrier roots, this little devil is bold, scrappy and tenacious; it never shies away from action or a fight, and is quite brave for its size. But the Affenpinscher also has a clownish side, its monkey half, and is sure to amuse its family with its crazy antics. The dog loves to play, climb, and get into trouble. The Affen is also fairly sociable and gets along well with children and other pets, which sets it apart from your typical terrier. The Affenpinscher is the perfect pet for anyone that likes to laugh and wants a dog that will always find a way to brighten your day.
Caring for an AffenpinscherThe Affenpinscher’s exercise requirements are fairly high compared to most Toy breeds. Generally, the dog can fulfill its exercise needs with an indoor or backyard game, or a short walk, but it needs this exercise everyday or it will become hyperactive and obnoxious. The Affenpinscher has modest resistance to both heat and cold, and may have trouble keeping itself cool on hot days – this breed absolutely cannot live outside. The Affenpinscher’s coat needs regular attention, including a biweekly brushing as well as shaping every 3 – 4 months; a non-show dog’s coat can be clipped, but show dogs should be stripped. The Affenpinscher is a healthy breed, and has few documented hereditary health problems. Occasionally, one will see patellar luxation, breathing problems and corneal ulcers in the breed.
Caring for an AffenpinscherThe Affenpinscher’s exercise requirements are fairly high compared to most Toy breeds. Generally, the dog can fulfill its exercise needs with an indoor or backyard game, or a short walk, but it needs this exercise everyday or it will become hyperactive and obnoxious. The Affenpinscher has modest resistance to both heat and cold, and may have trouble keeping itself cool on hot days – this breed absolutely cannot live outside. The Affenpinscher’s coat needs regular attention, including a biweekly brushing as well as shaping every 3 – 4 months; a non-show dog’s coat can be clipped, but show dogs should be stripped. The Affenpinscher is a healthy breed, and has few documented hereditary health problems. Occasionally, one will see patellar luxation, breathing problems and corneal ulcers in the breed.