A Little Bit About The Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher's German name meansHe has a domed skull which gives him a curious, sort
Monkey-Terrier and refers to the breed's comical,of comical looking facial expression. His unkempt
bewhiskered face and slightly undershot jaw. Anotherhairstyle adds to his clown like appearance. Ears are
name for this dog is Monkey Pinscher. In France thecropped or uncropped, erect or dropped. He has a
Affenpinscher is known as Diablotin Moustachu, whichstraight, blunt muzzle. His bite is slightly undershot
translates to Moustached Little Devil.with the lower incisors touching the upper incisors.
Germany claims origin of the Affenpinscher. It is feltThe coat of an Affenpinscher is harsh, dense and
the little dog was bred elsewhere in Europe as well.about one inch long. It may be even shorter on the
The Affenpinscher originated in the seventeenthrear and tail, yet shaggier on the head, neck, chest,
century and descended from terriers that inhabitedstomach and legs. His tail is either docked to
farms and shops of central Europe. In his neck of theapproximately one inch or left natural to curve up
woods, the Affenpinscher was a confidentand over the back when moving.
sharp-witted little hunter.Colors of an Affenpinscher are usually black but it is
Some writers believe the Affenpinscher is asometime seen in gray, silver or black and tan. A
descendant of the Miniature Pinscher, possiblysmall white patch on the chest is allowable, but large
crossed with some of the German wirehaired breedswhite patches are undesirable.
or the Skye Terrier. It may be related to theExercise
Brussels Griffon and the Miniature Schnauzer.This sturdy and hearty little guy will get by on a
The original purpose of the Affenpinscher was aminimal amount of exercise. He does enjoy regular
vermin hunter, alarm dog and companion. He firstromps in the yard and playtime with his owners.
came to America in the 1930s and was entered inLeashed walks are also enjoyable for the
the AKC studbook in 1936. He first appeared in theAffenpinscher.
American show rings in Chicago and New York.Grooming
PersonalityThe Affenpinscher requires little combing and
The Affenpinscher is naturally alert and vigilant, whichbrushing. After a bath, this little dog shakes off and
helps him to be an excellent alarm dog. He is lively,looks about the same as he did before his bath.
cheerful and entertaining. He bonds quickly with hisRegular combing will keep the coat in good condition.
family and is affectionate. He may challenge strangersYou will need a medium-toothed comb for general
who come to your door, but will make friends easilyuse and a small, fine comb for the hair on the face,
if properly introduced as a friend.particularly around the eyes. A small good-quality
The Affenpinscher needs consistent training. Hebristle nylon hairbrush (for ladies) works well for the
learns commands quickly. He is anxious to please hisAffenpinscher. Do not attempt to make this little dog
handler but may become bored easily. Trainingtoo neat and tidy - a shaggy appearance is required.
sessions for the Affenpinscher should be kept shortCombing with a medium or fine-toothed comb and
and varied. The Affenpinscher is intelligent andthen brushing with a nylon or bristle cushion hairbrush
curious. He likes to learn new tasks. You will need towill remove loose hairs and keep the coat tidy. The
be creative when training the Affenpinscher.face is scissored to give a round shape when viewed
Appearancefrom the front. The beard is left long for show
The Affenpinscher stands 9 to 12 inches tall andpurposes. This pet dog can be left natural or trimmed
weights between 7 and 8 pounds. He is not a delicateto appear neat and smart.
toy dog. He is sturdy and has medium bone structure.