Affenpinscher Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:Monkey Dog
  • Size:Small
  • Ease of Training:Low
  • Grooming:Medium
  • Shedding:Low
  • Exercise Needed:Occasional walk
  • Energy Level:High
  • Protection:Medium, Will bark
  • Good with Children:Yes
  • Health Clearances:Heart related checks, screening for luxating patella
  • Weight:7-9 lbs
  • Height:9-11.5 Inches
  • Coat Colour:Black, Grey, Silver or Tan

Affenpinscher Coat

The Affenpinscher has a coat of shaggy hair, which is rough and harsh. It is 1" in length on the shoulders and body. Their coat serves as protection in extreme weather conditions. They are low shedding. The coat comes in various colors such as black, gray, silver, and tan.

Affenpinscher Character

The Affenpinscher is a balanced and sturdy breed. They are a combination of charm and spunk, with a great deal of courage and boldness. They are capable of amazing dexterity and agility. They possess thinking and reasoning process, and will on occasion display sensitivity and gentleness. The Affenpinscher is often considered the "class clown". Small and compact. Noted for its bushy eyebrows. The Affenpinscher has a rough, uneven coat. It moves in a strutting gait which displays its self-confident nature. This little dog has a monkey-like expression which adds to its popularity.

Affenpinscher Temperament

Affenpinschers are highly inquisitive and quick-witted. They are mischievous and playful, affectionate and amusing. They get along well with other pets they have been raised with. They are not recommended for young children as this breed has a tendency to guard and protect their food and toys. They will become aggressive and fearless toward anything or anyone they perceive as a threat. They love to entertain and expect to be entertained. The Affenpinscher enjoys being with their family. The Affenpinscher is a typical Terrier type dog. They are usually very lively and bursting with self confidence. Its appearance gives it a comical look, emphasised by its bushy eyebrows. This dog can sometimes show some dislike towards strangers and other dogs so early socialising is important.

Affenpinscher Care

You should brush the coat of this breed once or twice a week to keep in good condition and to minimize on shedding. For show dogs the coat may need to be stripped every few months, where the dead coat is stripped off. The coat may also require some clipping to keep in looking its best. They will occasionally have stray hairs that grow in the corners of the eyes that cause irritation; they should be removed immediately. The Affenpinscher is prone to slipped stifle, open fontanel, and respiratory problems.

Affenpinscher Activity

The Affenpinscher is active and energetic. Their exercise needs can be met with indoor play sessions on a regular basis. They do well as apartment or condominium dwellers provided they are taken for daily leashed walks. They also enjoy a chance to run, so a small fenced yard is ideal. The Affenpinscher tends to climb and bark so supervision is required in the outdoor setting.

Affenpinscher Health and Life Expectancy

The lifespan of the Affenpinscher is around twelve to fourteen years, and this is generally quite a healthy and robust breed. However, there are health problems that can run in lines, and some of the more common ones include heart murmurs, Legg Perthes, luxating patella, and kidney problems. Affenpinschers are fairly healthy dogs all round, though their small size and light frame makes them slightly vulnerable to broken bones.