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Affenpinscher Facts
- Group
- Toys
- Affiliations
- UKC, CKC, AKC
- Height
- 9.5" - 11.5" (24 - 29cm)
- Weight
- 7 - 9 lbs (3.1 - 4kg)
- Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
The Affenpinscher is also known as Monkey Dog (the German translation of Affenpinscher) or Affen.
Origin
The Affenpinscher is one of the most ancient of the toy breeds and originated in central Europe in the 1600s. The Affenpinscher now has its largest numbers in North America.
Date Of Origin
The Affenpincher originated in 1600's Germany.
History
A larger version of the Affenpinscher, standing between 12 and 15" (30-38cm), became extinct at the beginning of the century. These dogs were known as "ratters" and were used to control rodents (rats) in stables, businesses, and homes.
From all history reports, a man from Lubeck, Germany was the first to breed Affenpinscher in earnest. Soon after, they were bred smaller in size to be used in the home as "mousers". This smaller version of the Affenpinscher is most similar to the breed found today.
The anatomy of the Affenpinscher suggests that it was developed from crossing similar size breeds such as the Pug (giving the start of the Brussels Griffon), the smooth haired German Pinscher, as well as a German breed of Silky Pinscher (giving some of the soft silver coat to some of our dogs of today). It is likely the parent of the Belgian Griffons, and a relative of the Miniature Schnauzer.
Description
The Affenpinscher is a small, well-balanced, compact, sturdy dog. It is square in proportion and has a distinctive monkey-like expression. It has a wide round head; a strong, short muzzle; an accentuated stop, and a convex skull covered with ruffled hair. The eyes are dark, round, and prominent. The ears may be cropped erect or natural, standing erect, semi-erect or dropped. It has a short neck, compact body with wide chest and a tail that is carried high either natural or docked. The coat is coarse and dry to the touch with a sightly curly undercoat.
Temperament
The Affenpinscher is an alert and inquisitive dog, who can be stubborn and resistant to training - including (and especially) house training, The Affenpinscher is also an aggressive, intense natural show-off with a quirky sense of humor. Socialization and obedience training is highly recommended. The Affenpinscher will live well with children that have learned to properly handle the breed.
Uses
This is an Uses for the Affenpinscher include ratting (the hunting of mice and rats), quail and rabbit tracking, an outstanding watchdog, and family companion.
Health Concerns
Common health concerns for the Affenpinscher include possible eye problems, hip dysplasia, Legg-Perthes disease, luxating patella, patent ductus arteriosus.
Additional Information
The Affenpinscher will benefit from a firm owner and adapts well to city life. Their wiry coat should be brushed and combed twice a week and trimmed twice a year. Show dogs must be hand-stripped which requires the skill of a professional groomer. Most pet dogs are groomed with shears and clippers.
Sources
The All Breed Dog Grooming Guide
Publisher: Aaronco, 2002
Website: http://www.aaroncopet.com
Author: Sam Kohl
The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Dogs, Dog Breeds and Dog Care
Publisher: Anness Publishing Limited, 1999
Website: http://www.southwaterbooks.com
Authors: Dr. Peter Larkin, Mike Stockman
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
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