Maybe you want a dog that doesn’t shed hair everywhere. And maybe you think it’s a good idea to get a dog that doesn’t need a big yard because you don’t have one. There might be a dog for you – the fabulous Affenpinscher!
They are quite small and are considered low maintenance. An Affenpinscher might get to 8 pounds which is not very much dog for your dollar. But, as you find with many small dogs, the Affenpinscher has a big personality. They carry their 8 pounds like its 80 pounds. And that’s why they’re a great fit for a growing family.
They are sometimes called the Monkey Dog because they look a bit like a monkey. The French call Affenpinsher’s diablotin moustachu or the “mustachioed imp.” It might seem a bit mean to call Affen’s such names! But they are sure distinctive with their long wiry coats, luminous round eyes, and characteristic undershot jaw.
They are a relative of the Brussels Griffon. This is why they are thought to have originated from Germany from the larger dog which was used on farms as a mouser. The Affenpinscher shares qualities with a Terrier so they can be playful, stubborn, mischievous and inquisitive.
This is a good breed to have in an apartment or small house. The Affenpinscher is equally comfortable playing in a living room as he is going on a warm weather camping trip. They can get their exercise from indoor play as well as short walks or an occasional outing at the park. Because they aren’t yappy like some minature breeds, their quietness is good in communal living environments. If you keep the excitement level low, your Affenpinscher will respond well to that.
Training
Little dogs always seem to be the most difficult to train. The Affenpinscher is no exception. Because of their big personalities, they can actually be difficult to housebreak. But they can learn quickly because they are a smart dog. To get past their stubborn nature, you will need to be firm and consistent in your training. Introduce variation in your training so your little monkey dog doesn’t get bored.
If you’re going to show your Affenpinscher, there are special grooming considerations you have to consider. Their coat requires a grooming regime that is suited to their wispy and sometimes wild hair. Even though they don’t shed much, take care to keep their coat long as trimming it incorrectly can cause problems. Be watchful of the hairs around the eyes as they can cause irritation and may need to be removed from time to time.
Health
Affenpinschers are popular because they are a healthy breed with few genetic defects. This means, generally speaking, they have less health problems than other small breeds.
The Affenpinscher is prone to slipped stifle and fractures. This gets more pronounced as the dog gets older. But they can live up to 12 years with proper care and a good diet.
Also watch out for hot weather. There are issues with respiratory problems when temperatures start to climb. You will to keep your Affenpinscher in a cool, shady, place if you live in humid conditions.
Almost any type of family can suit an Affenpinscher. They don’t need a big yard or excessive grooming. But since they love to spend time with family, be sure that your schedule allows plenty of time for taking your Affenpinscher on walks, playing and just sitting on the couch!
