The Affenpinscher is a toy-sized terrier that packs a punch for its size. This little dog has an intense personality, which makes it a great companion for someone who wants an energetic dog that doesn’t need much exercise. It’s also got some serious grooming needs and requires regular trips to the groomer or home groomer.
What is an Affenpinscher?
You’re probably wondering what the heck an Affenpinscher is. Well, you can feel free to call them “monkey terriers”—the breed is known for their intelligence, energy, agility, and athleticism.
Today’s Affenpinschers are also quite good at obedience and agility training; they have been recognized as one of America’s best working breeds since 2008 when they were named Best in Show at Westminster Kennel Club dog show.
Now that we’ve covered what an Affenpinscher is (or isn’t), let’s talk about why you might want one:
Affenpinscher characteristics
The Affenpinscher is a small dog with a wiry coat and a terrier-like personality. It can be found in two varieties: smooth-haired and wire-haired. The smooth-coated dogs come in black, black with tan or red markings, or gray; the rough-coated dogs may be red/brown or blue/gray.
The Affenpinscher was created by crossing the German Pinscher with the Dutch Smoushond (a Dutch toy terrier) to produce an agile dog that could hunt vermin while providing companionship to its master. Today it is considered one of the most intelligent of all breeds, as well as one of the best watchdogs around!
they love learning
The Affenpinscher is a bold, curious and energetic breed that likes to investigate. They are good with children and other pets, but can be very possessive of their toys.
They Are Fearless
Affenpinschers are also sometimes described as fearless despite their small size. While it’s true that they can be very protective of their families, they’re also not aggressive dogs by nature. Affenpinschers are known for sticking close to home, so if you plan on bringing one into your life, make sure you have a safe backyard for your pet.
They Are Possessive
Affenpinschers are often very possessive of their toys, food and people. They need to learn to share at an early age or they can become jealous of other dogs or small children. Affenpinschers also tend to be very territorial about their space and will try to keep you from entering certain rooms in the house.
It’s important that your Affenpinscher learns not only how to play with other dogs but also how to let another dog play with his toys! For this reason, it is important that you introduce him/her to other dogs as part of socialization training when they are young so they aren’t afraid of all other dogs forever (even if there’s nothing wrong with them!).
Living Environment
It is important to remember that while the Affenpinscher can live happily in apartments or homes with small yards, it needs regular daily exercise to release excess energy. If you have little time to give your dog an outlet for physical activity, consider taking him on a long walk around your neighborhood or at a nearby park.
A tired Affenpinscher is a happy Affenpinscher! Exercise also helps keep your dog’s weight under control. If you’re considering adopting an Affenpinscher but are concerned about the breed’s exercise needs, ask yourself: am I willing and able to devote some time each day for this dog?
Health Conditions
This breed is prone to two genetic conditions that affect the eyes: cataracts and retinal dysplasia.
Cataracts are a clouding of the lens that can cause vision loss. Cataracts also make it difficult for your pet to see in bright light, which makes them more likely to bump into things or hurt themselves. Cataracts can be detected by an eye exam and treated with surgery if needed.
Retinal dysplasia is a condition that causes abnormal development of the retina, which results in vision loss, glaucoma, or blindness if left untreated.
This condition is more common in Affenpinschers than in other breeds, but it can be prevented through regular examinations by your veterinarian and careful monitoring over time with detailed examinations from an ophthalmologist every 6 months until adulthood (about 12-18 months).
Dental Hygeine
It’s important for you to brush your Affen’s teeth daily. They are prone to dental disease, so it’s best to take preventive measures.
Brush the teeth twice a day, once after each meal if possible. You can use a small toothbrush or finger toothbrush, but keep in mind that some dogs will not allow you to brush their teeth unless they are sedated or under anesthesia (which is expensive).
If your dog doesn’t like having his/her mouth touched by anything except food, try brushing with an exploring finger first and then gently introduce the toothbrush as you move from one area of the mouth to another.
Is the Affenpinscher Right for You?
As a family dog, the Affenpinscher is very affectionate and playful with children. It will be protective of its owner and loved ones, but it does not make a good watchdog because of its small size. This breed does best when brought up with other pets from puppyhood on; without this experience, it may become aggressive toward other dogs later in life.
I love your blog. We are all dog lovers here. Thank you for sharing all of the important dog information Amber.
Thank you for the kind words!