The Affenpinscher, a compact-looking dog

The Affenpinscher, a compact-looking dog

The Affenpinscher is a very old, small dog, which has a compact look very recognizable, especially because of his head with a slightly sulky expression and that has the features of a little monkey. This dog belongs to the group of pinschers, schnauzers, molossoids and Swiss drovers. Intrepid and stubborn, he is also balanced and faithful to his master. A dog pleasant to live.

• Size: 25 cm to 30 cm
• Weight: 4 kg to 6 kg
• Hair: long
• Colors: black, gray, red or beige
• Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
• Gestation period: 63 days

Description and characteristics of the Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is a small dog with a compact body, easily recognizable thanks to its round head. The latter has the characteristic of resembling that of a monkey, by its shape, but also by its grimacing appearance, its small black truffle and short snout. Of this characteristic, the Affenpinscher takes its name, "affen" meaning "monkey" in German.

The dog's coat is made up of a thick, stiff and hard long hair, also with a generous undercoat. On his head, the hairs are abundant, especially in his eyebrows, around his eyes, also reminding the monkey. The Affenpinscher also has a beard and a tuft above his head.

The ears of the Affenpinscher are small, V-shaped, and always worn straight. This dog is also recognizable thanks to its trotting step.

Origin of Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is a very old dog from Germany where he was considered a pet, but also used as a rodent hunter. Engravings attest to its existence already in the 15th century and the race was recognized at the end of the 19th century. The ancestors of the current Affenpinscher are hard-haired Pinschers. Although he is quite popular, he remains a rare dog.

Character and behavior of the Affenpinscher - Who is it for?

The Affenpinscher is appreciated as a pet for its wisdom, vivacity and exuberance. He can be a real little clown. It is also a dog very affectionate, faithful and devoted. It is an excellent watchdog because it tends to bark a lot in the presence of people outside his family.

The Affenpinscher particularly appreciates the presence of children with whom he can play, one of his favorite activities.

How to take care of your Affenpinscher: your needs

The Affenpinscher is a dog that adapts well to life in the city and apartment. His needs in physical exercise are not very important but he needs frequent walks because he has energy to spare. Stubborn enough, he requires a firm education from his master.

On the maintenance side, because of its thick and supple coat, the Affenpinscher needs to be brushed every day.

The diet of the Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher does not require a particular diet. As with all dogs, it must be of good quality, balanced and adapted to its age, state of health and exercise.

The health of Affenpinscher

Even though it is quite robust, the Affenpinscher is a dog that knows some health problems like intestinal transit disorders and is subject to dislocations of its patellae. Small, he may be suffering from the disease "Legg-Perthes-Calvé" which reaches the head of the femur because of a poor blood supply, including limping. On the other hand, the Affenpinscher may also be suffering from a cardiac malformation which, if not treated quickly, may be life-threatening.

Price of an Affenpinscher puppy

The price of an Affenpinscher pup will depend on the sex, the parents' pedigree, the conformity to the standards of the breed, etc.