Affenpinscher.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.