The
Affenpinscher is a terrier-like toy breed of
dog. Weighing 7 to 9 pounds (3-4 kg) and not exceeding 11 inches
(24-30 cm) in height at the withers, the Affenpinscher has harsh
rough coat and a monkey-like expression (Affe means monkey in
German).
Its coat is shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a
mane, with shorter coat over the back and hind quarters. It
is harsh and wiry in texture. The FCI and UK breed standards
specifies that the coat must be black, but the AKC also allows
gray, silver, red, black and tan, and belge (not beige; belge
is a mixture of red, black and white hairs); other clubs have
their own lists of acceptable colours, with black being the
preference.
Temperament
Affenpinschers have a distinct appearance that some associate
with terriers. They are different from terriers, however, in
that they are actually part of the pinscher-schnauzer subgroup
of group 2 in the FCI classification and so often get along
with other dogs and pets. They are active, adventurous, curious,
and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The
breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members
and is also very protective of them. This loyal little dog enjoys
being with its family. It needs consistent, firm training because
some can be quite difficult to housebreak. The training should
be varied because the dog can easily become bored.
Affenpinschers are somewhat territorial when it comes to their
toys and food, so they are not recommended for very small children.
This dog is mostly quiet but can become very excited if attacked
or threatened and shows no fear toward any aggressor. It is
best suited for a family who likes a show and has a sense of
humor.
Mortality
A small sample (N=21) of Affenpinschers in a UK survey had a
median lifespan of 11.4 years, which is a typical lifespan for
a purebred dog, but a bit lower than most breeds of their size.
The most common causes of death were old age (24%), urologic
(19%), and "combinations" (14%).
Morbidity
The Affenpinscher can get hip dysplasia. As with many small
breeds of dog they are prone to collapsed trachea, which is
best avoided by walking the dog with a harness instead of a
collar. Cataracts are occasionally reported.
History
The breed is German in origin and dates back to the seventeenth
century. Its name is derived from the German Affe (ape, monkey).
The breed predates and is ancestral to the Griffon Bruxellois
(Brussels Griffon) and Miniature Schnauzer.
Dogs of the Affenpinscher type have been known since about
1600 but these were somewhat larger, about 12 to 13 inches,
and came in colors of gray, fawn, black and tan, gray and tan,
and also red. White feet and chest were also common. The breed
was created to be a ratter, working to remove rodents from kitchens,
granaries, and stables.
Care
Affenpinschers need to be groomed two to three times a week
because of their 1 inch coat.
Clubs, associations and societies
