
Other Names:
Affen, Affie, African Terrier, Monkey Dog, Monkey Terrier
Price Range:
$1,800 – $2,500
Size:
Small
Dog Group:
Toy
Coat Length:
Medium
Energy:
High
Kid Friendly:
Low
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Available in these colours:
Affenpinschers come in a variety of colours, including Black, Black & Silver, Black & Tan and Red & Black.
Characteristics & Tendencies:
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
APARTMENT FRIENDLY
HYPOALLERGENIC
About the Affenpinscher
Described by the French as the “diablotin moustachu,” or moustached little devil, the Affenpinscher is a charming, compact-sized dog, characterised by his unusual facial appearance, with a protruding lower jaw and lip. He has a wiry coat and a square body, weighing around 2.9 to 6 kg and standing at 23 to 30cm tall at the withers. The breed has impressive forepaw dexterity and also has a penchant for grappling and tossing toys.
The Affenpinscher was created to be a ratter, working to remove rodents from kitchens, granaries, and stables. Bred down in size, they moved up in the world, becoming ladies’ companions. Today, they are happy, mischievous companion dogs. Generally a quiet dog, the Affenpinscher may exhibit a terrier spark and fire when excited. Affenpinschers are generally fearless toward any threat.
The Affenpinscher has a mind of his own and is often labelled as stubborn. He needs early and consistent training. Fortunately, he’s eager to learn and to please his people when he’s taught with positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards. He can compete in obedience and agility, and his entertainment ability makes him a wonderful therapy dog.
Top health issues
What are the most common health issues for Affenpinschers?
- Patellar Luxation
- Legg-Perthes Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Heart Murmurs
IN DETAIL
Common Affenpinscher diseases & conditions, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment in detail:
Patellar luxation is a knee cap problem in dogs. It occurs when the dog’s kneecap (patella) is dislocated from its normal anatomic position in the groove of the thigh bone (femur). When the kneecap is dislocated from the groove of the thigh bone, it can only be returned to its normal position once the quadriceps muscles in the hind legs of the animal relax and lengthen. It is for this reason that most dogs with the condition will hold up their hind legs for a few minutes.
This involves the hip joint. If your dog has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur (the large rear leg bone) is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. The first symptoms, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, usually occur when puppies are four to six months old. Surgery can correct the condition, usually resulting in a pain-free puppy.
Due to their active lifestyles, hip dysplasia is not a rare occurrence in Affenpinschers. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and is the primary cause of painful hip osteoarthritis in dogs. It generally occurs in large or giant breed dogs, however can also occur in smaller breeds as well. It is usually affected by factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, improper weight and nutrition. Symptoms of hip dysplasia may show in dogs when they are as young as four months of age, whilst for others the disease may develop in conjunction with osteoarthritis as they age. These symptoms may include decreased activity, difficulty or reluctance rising, jumping or running, lameness in the hind end, loss of thigh muscle mass, pain and stiffness.
A heart murmur is an abnormal heart sound that is heard when listening to the heart with a stethoscope. It is caused by an abnormal turbulent blood flow, and may be graded by a veterinarian on a scale of I-VI, based on their intensity. A Grade I is very soft or quiet, whereas a Grade VI murmur is very loud, and heard everywhere that the heart can be heard, even felt when a person places their hand on the chest in the area of the heart. If your dog is still a young puppy and the murmur is of low intensity, your veterinarian may recommend a re-examination in a few weeks time to track whether the murmur has decreased in intensity or disappeared, indicating it to likely be an innocent murmur. A dog with a murmur caused by a structural heart disease or an extracardiac problem will generally show symptoms that may be attributed to the disease. These include poor appetite, weight loss, breathing problems, pale gums and/or coughing. In the majority of these cases, further diagnostic testing should be performed immediately so that potential treatment may begin as soon as possible.
Feeding
How much does an Affenpinscher eat?
As a toy dog, your Affenpinscher will not require large amounts of food. Two meals a day of up to 1/4 cup of dry dog food will be sufficient. The amount will vary by the dog’s size, age, and activity level. Your dog’s needs will change throughout its lifespan. Keep your Affenpinscher trim by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Some dogs are prone to getting overweight so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
Shedding
How often does the fur fall off?
Although they are in the hypoallergenic category of dog breeds, Affenpinschers do indeed shed. While Affenpinschers require little grooming, it is advised that their coats be stripped on a regular basis to retain its characteristic texture. A simple technique, stripping involves pulling the dead, dull hair out, leaving the shiny new hair behind. Diligent stripping dramatically reduces shedding.
Grooming
Are Affenpinschers high maintenance?
The Affenpinscher has a medium-length, wiry coat that should be groomed twice a week, with a small slicker brush. Any mats should be pulled apart with the fingers. It can help to spray them with detangler solution first. The hair on the head is usually brushed forward over the face, and then an inverted V-shape is cut to expose the eyes. Similarly, the hair on the bridge of the nose is trimmed into a fan shape to keep the eyes clear. The Affen’s coat does not grow quickly, so a trimming a pet Affen every few months is enough. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Trim nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn’t wear them down naturally. If you can hear them clicking on the floor, they’re too long. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition and prevent your legs from getting scratched when your Affenpinscher enthusiastically jumps up to greet you.
Exercise
How much exercise does an Affenpinscher need?
While Affenpinschers can be perfectly happy living in close quarters, the breed is classified as “moderately active,” and as such, they do need exercise. Daily walks, or other activities such as indoor play, either with his owner or toys, will be adequate to keep the Affenpinscher physically and mentally stimulated. Suitable periods of time in a fenced backyard is also a great way to take care of his exercise needs. He has an athletic ability, and when paired with his intelligence, allows him to excel in canine sports including agility, obedience and rally.
Vet Visits
How often should an Affenpinscher visit the vet?
The Affen is a hardy breed, with an average life expectancy between 12 to 14 years. However, they may be susceptible to health issues such as patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes disease and hip dysplasia. Veterinary care is essential to a dog’s health and wellbeing, however, the frequency of treatment and checkups will depend on the dog.
Scheduled six-monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure your Affenpinscher is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. In these annual visits, your vet will complete a physical examination, take your dog’s temperature and check his heartbeat, among other things. Routine maintenance for your dog gives you a chance to track your dog’s growth and development and discuss any concerns with your vet and forms a key part of preventative care.
Family Suitability
Are Affenpinschers kid-friendly and sociable with humans?
Smart and courageous, the Affenpinscher makes a delightful household companion. They are fearless protectors, which make them great watchdogs, however, he can be completely unaware of his size at times. This may result in jumping off high beds or climbing fences, so ensure care is taken around the house. The Affen is also easily excitable, so it may take a while to calm him down, particularly if he feels threatened.
Affenpinschers do not have much tolerance for younger children, as they do not like aggressive behaviour such as hitting, unwarranted squeezing or chasing. They may defend themselves by growling or snapping, and therefore do not suit households with young children. Affens also love to entertain their owners, whether that be through manipulating toys or “singing”, making them wonderful therapy dogs. His clown-like charm makes him suitable for a family who likes entertainment and has a good sense of humour.
Trainability
Are Affenpinschers difficult to train?
Basic obedience training is recommended for Affenpinschers. Affenpinschers have a bold, and sometimes fiesty temperament, giving them an undeserved reputation of having low trainability. As they are independent-minded and stubborn at times, it is essential that his owner is consistent and patient. Ensure that his training incorporates variety so that he will not become bored. Shorter, more frequent sessions will usually be more effective in training your Affen. Nevertheless, Affens are very intelligent dogs and generally eager to please humans they have formed bonds with. Affens can be easily trained with positive reinforcement techniques including praise, play and food-motivated rewards.
Compatibility with other pets
Do Affenpinschers get along with other dogs or cats?
Owing to its heritage as a rodent hunter, Affenpinschers typically are not compatible with small pets, particularly rodents. He is able to get along with cats, as long as he is socialised with them early on. However, their terrier-like personality means that they are quite territorial when it comes to toys and food, so Affens can show aggression if they feel threatened. Like most toy breeds, Affens are also completely unaware of their size and will not be afraid to take on dogs much larger than themselves.
Need for company
How often do they need to be around humans?
Affens are very loyal to their families, and love being affectionate. They can be sensitive and responsive to changing moods and atmosphere. Affenpinschers are also generally eager to please their owner, and are usually placid and quiet. They are devoted to their owners, with little interest in strangers. Affens do not like being left alone. Despite their quiet nature, they can be easily excited, where their spunky, “terrier spark and fire” can shine through.
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