Contents
Affenpinscher personality traits and Temperament
The Affenpinscher (meaning monkey dog) is a feisty dog full of mischievous spirit and energy. They have a very pleasing terrier like personality and are very bold, inquisitive and playful.
They have a tendency to be quite stubborn and very territorial. The biggest trait of the Affenpinscher is their attitude and devotion to their owners. These dogs are fearless and can challenge other dogs that are bigger and heavier, often with disastrous consequences. The dog enjoys being around the family and makes a good indoor pet.
The breed has a tendency to chase small animals and its alert nature makes him a good watchdog. These dogs are not very good socialisers and are very excitable when strangers are around. Once excited the dogs can go into a frenzied yapping and can take some time to pipe down. So this breed is not a good choice in places where you have irritable neighbours.
Even though they have a goofy and fun filled character, these dogs are not fit for households with children. They have been known to be peevish around children and do not enjoy being handled by toddlers. They also do not tolerate other pets unless these have been brought up together. They have a predator prey instinct and have been known to chase cats, mice, rats and other vermin.
Due to the fair bit of energy in them, they need their routine exercise and walks. They should not be treated like lap dogs and carried along. They do not like extreme temperatures and are particularly susceptible to hot climates.
Grooming, Haircuts and Shedding
The breed has a harsh wiry coat, which is shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a mane, the back and hind quarters have a shorter coat. It also has a bushy eyebrow and a beard and mustachios giving it a monkey like appearance.
It is normal for leaves, twigs and other particles to get entangled in his coat after a session outdoors, so regular grooming is needed. Usually a slicker brush and comb are needed for brushing and grooming. Hair can get tangled easily so it is advisable to use a detangle solution or use finger gently.
During grooming check the ear canal for any exudates or bad odour. Nails should be trimmed regularly.
Affenpinschers are non shedders and so there is no worry about hairs in your precious furniture. Rather than trimming the hair short, stripping needs to be done at least once a month. Trimming have been known to cause poor coat quality.
Size and Characteristics
Price Range: this dog for sale may cost between $300 – $500
Life expectancy: the life span of a Affenpinscher is generally of about 10-12YEARS
Weight: 7-10 pounds
Height: 9-12 inches
Colors: Usually black or dark gray, can also come in lighter gray, silver, red, or black and tan
How to Train
Due to a stubborn streak present in these dogs, Affenpinschers are a nightmare to train and can be difficult to house break. But once properly trained the dividends are out of the world.
Training has to be started very early, and as these dogs are very intelligent they can grasp the commands faster. The owners have to be firm and authoritative with the dogs during training. Make sure there is some variety in the training so the dog does not become bored. They need to be socialised early and given exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences.
This can help calm the dog and can reduce their yapping tendency. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking the dog to busy parks, strolls etc., will also help them polish their social skills.
Health Issues and Food
Diet: Foods that are high in carbohydrate content. The meat protein source should be a blend of horse meat and poultry. Avoid feeding any foods containing soy, beet pulp, white rice, fish meal or lamb to an Affenpinscher.
Allergies: Hypo allergenic
Health problems: Prone to fractures, respiratory problems especially in hot weather, cataracts, PDA, patellar luxation, skin conditions
Mixed breeds
ffenhuahua It is a cross between the Affenpinscher and the Chihuahua. he Affenhuahua’s coat may be black, white, blue, red or wheaten and contain dark or white markings. Affenhuahuas are sensitive, playful dogs who like the Chihuahua tend bond with one person over all others.
Affen Tzu is a cross between the Affenpinscher and the Shih Tzu. The Affen Tzu typically has a small, short body that is somewhat delicate. The breed comes in an assortment of shades, primarily browns, blacks, tans, creams, silvers, and white. They are exceptionally affectionate and sweet by nature, as well as a bit on the mischievous side at times.
Affen Terrier is a mix of Border Terrier and the Affenpinscher. Affen Terrier comes in a variety of colours, primarily shades of black, white, or tan and often has markings or intermingled coat colouring. He Terrier is easy to train, loyal and good family dog.
Best female and male dog names
You can name your Affenpinscher as Buddy or Ace if he is a male and Lucy or Buttons if she is a female.
How to adopt this dog
For dog adoptions take a look at how to adopt an Affenpinscher
Pictures and Videos
Photo Credits: Ingunn Axelsen,Lennart.larsen.