| Breed Description
- Affenpinscher |
|
| Kennel Club Group |
Toy |
|
|
| General Size |
Small |
Exercise requirements |
Low |
| Adult Height |
9" - 11" (23 - 28 cms) |
Suitability for Children |
Low |
| Adult Weight |
7 - 9 lb (3 - 4 kgs) |
Compatibility other pets |
Medium |
| Average Lifespan |
12 - 15 years |
Grooming Requirements |
Medium |
|
 |
| Affenpinschers are small dogs with a wiry, shaggy coat and longer fur on the face. They are a small working terrier and hence not to be considered a delicate dog. Square bodied with a deep chest they have a round head with pronounced stop, their lower jaw is undershot and protrudes below a short muzzle and the black eyes are prominent and rounded. They have a short, arched neck and straight, strong legs. Colours are black, dark gray, tan and red. |
| Originating in Germany the Affenpinscher is one of the oldest known dog breeds having existed since at least the 17th century and bearing close resemblance to dogs found in paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries. Although Affenpinschers show all the traits of their terrier heritage they are now too small to be working dogs and are now known as excellent companion dogs. |
| Intelligent, self-confident dogs the Affenpinscher is amenable to training, however training needs to start at a young age to check a tendency to be strong willed. Lively and self confident they are affectionate with their owners but can quick tempered and dislike strangers, however careful socialising as a puppy can help to reduce any aggressive tendencies. Affenpinschers may not be the best choice to live with young children, their small size makes them vulnerable to damage when playing with children and their terrier instincts may come to the fore risking damage to the child if the games get out of hand. |
| Though a small dog the Affenpinscher is quite active and requires a reasonable amount of daily exercise, they enjoy playing games which exercise their considerable intelligence but these games shouldn't be too rough or boisterous. As the Affenpinscher is naturally 'scruffy' grooming is not too demanding with regular brushing removing dead hair and other debris from the coat. |
| Potential
Health Problems |
| The Affenpinscher has few breed specific disorders although some are prone to fractures and slipped stifle. Like any short nosed breed the Affenpinscher may suffer from respiratory problems in hot weather. They are bold, active dogs but due to their small size broken bones are a potential problem. |
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