Affenpinscher Breed Description

An Owner's Affenpinscher Description
"Wire", a name I chose because of his wired demeanor, is one of those uncommon rare breeds you won't run into often. But, if after waiting on a list, you finally get to own one of these frisky fellows, you're in for a treat. Although not all Affenpinschers have the exact same personality, Wire's very curious and mischievous, but that's what makes him so enjoyable.

Over time he has become quite suspicious of most people. He believes they are only after his things and he holds onto his toys obsessively. He can really get into himself sometimes and struts around as if he really is somebody important. It's these antics that entertain me for hours. Whether or not he is aware of his snappy terrier-like character, he will certainly get your attention.

Now Affenpinschers, as a whole, are intelligent dogs, and Wire is no different. However, he tends to get bored quickly, making it a bit more difficult to teach him anything that demands concentration. I've often said that Wire suffers from Attention Deficit Disorder. Fortunately for me, Wire was able to pay attention long enough to housebreak! That was important since these dogs rarely make good outside pets. They are somewhat fragile in spite of their spunkiness, and there are just too many ways for these 'toy' dogs to wind up injured. Wire has a tendency to be very aggressive with strangers, as well.

I've also discovered that Affenpinschers are not a good pet for families with young children. Not that he would hurt anyone - just the opposite. With a tendency to get underfoot, a playful child can easily step on an Affenpinscher and break their fragile bones. So Wire's an indoor pet, and I enjoy helping him amuse himself as much as he does me.

Introduction

These dogs were originally from Germany where they were known as the "Monkey Terrier". They have an impish whiskered face and once earned their living by ridding stable yards of rats. Today, these smart, brave dogs are content as house pets. They are alert, inquisitive, loyal and affectionate little dogs. Standing 9-11 1/2" at the shoulder, the Affenpinscher has a wiry coat that needs grooming once a week. Affenpinschers come in solid black, gray, silver, black & tan or red.

History

The Affenpinscher is believed to be one of the oldest members of the Toy group. Known in Germany since ancient times, the name Affenpinscher translates as "Monkey Terrier" which refers both to the facial features and the temperament of these small active dogs. In France, they are known as Devils with a Moustache. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1936. Today's research points to the breed beginning as a larger vermin-hunting farm terrier; in the 1800s or thereabouts, they were bred smaller so as to be house dogs that would eliminate mice within the home.

Description

These alert-looking black eyed toys look monkey-like because the hair on their face is longer than that on their bodies, they have a distinct underbite (undershot, in canine terms) and they have a round head with a pronounced stop (short snout). Square bodied, they have a short neck leading to a deep chest. These dogs were docked and cropped for centuries; today, this is illegal in many countries; the breed standard does not require it. Most Affenpinschers are black or deep charcoal grey; however, they also appear in red, tan, light grey and silver.

Temperament

Their name sums up this toy: they are active, intelligent mischievous monkeys who never cease to delight their owners. Affenpinschers are confident and brash, unafraid to investigate everything and anything. Their curiosity abounds and their fearlessness means they often get into unexpected positions. Affenpinscher owners delight in their antics

Health and Care

A hearty breed thanks to centuries of popularity in Germany and France, nevertheless there are health problems the breed is prone to, notably that they are prone to fractures like many toy dogs. A responsible breeder is your best resource for a strong and healthy pup. Please note that Affenpinschers do not do well in hot climates. They experience respiratory problems at high temperatures and their coats will wither from the heat. Their active nature and small size means they get plenty of exercise indoors simply being themselves. This makes Affenpinschers ideal pets for apartment dwellers.

Non-shedding dogs, Affenpinschers are wire coated and must be combed, brushed or plucked to maintain gloss and texture. Never clip their fur; as with many wire hairs, it will damage growth patterns, often permanently.

Sources

The American Kennel Club, Wikipedia, Affenpinscher Club of America

Colors

black, gray, black and tan, red, silver and belge (mix of red, black and white hairs). Some white hairs and small white patches on the chest are acceptable.

Living Area

Indoors with a small yard. Will do well in apartments with regular exercise.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

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