Dog
Affenpinscher Champions
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Pronunciation:
AFF-en-pin-sher
Breed Description:
The Affenpinscher breed of dog is a balanced, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog whose intelligence and demeanor make it a good house pet. Originating in Germany, the name Affenpinscher means; "monkey-like terrier." The breed was developed to rid the kitchens, granaries, and stables of rodents. In France the breed is described as the "Diablotin Moustachu" or moustached little devil. Both describe the appearance and attitude of this delightful breed. The total overall appearance of the Affenpinscher is more important than any individual characteristic. He is described as having a neat but shaggy appearance. The head of the Affenpinscher breed of dog is in proportion to the body, carried confidently with monkey-like facial expression. Eyes are round, dark, and of medium size in proportion to the head but not bulging or protruding. Eye rims are black. Ears are cropped to a point, set high and standing erect; or natural, standing erect, semi-erect or dropped. All of the above types of ears, if symmetrical, are acceptable as long as the monkey-like expression is maintained. The skull of the Affenpinscher breed of dog is round and domed, but not coarse. Its stop is well-defined, and its muzzle is short and narrows slightly to a blunt nose. The length of the muzzle is approximately the same as the distance between the eyes. The nose is black, and is turned neither up nor down. The lips are also black, with a prominent lower lip. The bite of the Affenpinscher breed of dog is slightly undershot, but a level bite is acceptable if the monkey-like expression is maintained. An overshot bite is severely penalized. The teeth and tongue do not show when the mouth is closed. The lower jaw is broad enough for the lower teeth to be straight and even. The neck of the Affenpinscher is short and straight, the topline straight and level. An Affenpinscher's chest is moderately broad and deep; ribs are moderately sprung, and its back is short and level with a strong loin. The croup has just a perceptible curve. The tail of the Affenpinscher breed of dog may be docked or natural. A docked tail is generally between 1" and 2" long, set high and carried erect. The natural tail is set high and carried curved gently up over the back while moving. The type of tail is not a major consideration. Front angulation is moderate, shoulders have moderate layback, and the length of the shoulder blade and the upper arm are about equal. Affenpinscher elbows remain close to the body, and the front legs should appear straight when viewed from any direction. Pasterns are short and straight. The dewclaws of the Affenpinscher breed of dog are generally removed. Feet are small, round, and compact, with black pads and nails. Rear angulation is moderate, and hindlegs straight when viewed from behind. From the side, hind-legs are set under the body to maintain a square appearance. The length of the upper thigh and the second thigh are about equal, with moderate bend to the stifle. The coat of the Affenpinscher breed of dog is dense, rough, harsh, and about 1" in length on the shoulders and body. The hair may be shorter on the rear and tail, and the head, neck, chest, stomach, and legs have a longer, less harsh coat. The mature Affenpinscher has a mane or cape of strong hair that blends into the back coat at the withers area. The longer hair on the head, eyebrows, and beard stands off and frames the face to emphasize the monkey-like expression. Hair on the ears is cut very short. A correct coat needs little grooming to blend the various lengths of hair to maintain a neat but shaggy appearance. Black, gray, silver, red, black and tan, or beige are all acceptable colors for the Affenpinscher breed of dog. Black coats may have a rusty cast or a few white or silver hairs mixed with the black. Reds may vary from a brownish red to an orange-y tan. Beige has black, brown, and/or white hairs mixed with the red. Some dogs may have black masks. A small white spot on the chest is not penalized, but large white patches are undesirable. Color is not a major consideration for the Affenpinscher breed of dog.
Temperament:
The Affenpinscher breed of dog is generally game, alert, and inquisitive with great loyalty and affection toward its master and friends. The breed is generally quiet, but can become vehemently excited when threatened or attacked, and is fearless toward any aggressor.
Height:
The Affenpinscher breed of dog stands 9.5 to 11.5 inches high.
Weight:
The Affenpinscher breed of dog weighs 7 to 9 pounds.
Health Problems:
There are no major health concerns associated associated with the Affenpinscher breed of dog, although some are prone to fractures and slipped stifle. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and open fontanel are occasionally seen. Like any short-nosed breed, the Affenpinscher may suffer from respiratory problems in hot weather.
Living Conditions:
The Affenpinscher breed of dog is good for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. These dogs are sensitive to temperature extremes. Overly warm living conditions are damaging to the coat.
Exercise:
Although it is an energetic and active little dog, a lot of its exercise needs can be met with indoor play, HOWEVER, like all dogs, the Affenpinscher breed of dog should be taken for daily walks to fulfill its canine instinct to walk. It will also enjoy a chance to run around outside in a wide open-space.
Life Expectancy:
The Affenpinscher breed of dog typically lives 12 to 16 years.
Grooming:
The harsh coat of the Affenpinscher breed of dog should never be clipped short, as this ruins the coat for many years. It should be brushed and combed weekly, and it may be necessary to pluck it. A dog-trimming specialist usually does this, but it is possible to learn how to do it yourself. Show dogs require stripping. Hair sometimes grows in the corners of the eyes, causing irritation; they should be dealt with promptly. This breed sheds little to no hair.
Origin:
No exact data about the origin of the Affenpinscher breed of dog exists. It is certainly related to the Brussels Griffon and probably to the terrier. It is named "Monkey Dog" because of his monkey-like facial structure and expression and his curious personality. This feisty toy dog is believed to have originated in Germany. At first a farm dog and ratter, probably larger in size, the Affenpinscher was miniaturized and became a house pet during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is a ruthless hunter of mice and an outstanding watchdog. Today the Affenpinscher is primarily a companion dog. The Affenpinscher breed of dog was admitted to the American Kennel Club's studbook in 1936. Comments
The standards for all the breeds accepted to the AKC are used here for breed information, and those not part of the AKC are resourced from FCI standard information, where it is written and coded into the club rules for those breeds.
