Dog Breeds-Affenpinscher

Other Names- Sometimes referred to as monkey dog.

Height- Average height for males and females (10-15 inches).

Weight- Average weight for males and females (7-8 pounds)

Life Expectancy- 10 to 12 years

Group- Toy (AKC)

Recognized By- AKC(American Kennel Club), CKC(Canadian Kennel Club), FCI(Federation Cynologique Internationale), KCGB(Kennel Club of Great Britain), ANKC(Australian National Kennel Club), NKC(National Kennel Club), NZKC(New Zealand Kennel Club), ACR(American Canine Registry), APRI(American Pet Registry Inc.), CKC(Continental Kennel Club).

Affenpinschers are said to have originated in Germany sometime around the 17th century. The breed is directly related to the Brussels Griffon, and the Miniature Schnauzer. The breed was used to hunt rats.

Given the name "monkey face" from its monkey like facial expressions. Affenpinschers have a rough outercoat coat. It is harsh and wiry in texture. The inner coat is slightly curly. Coat color is usally black or gray, but other colors can include tan and red.

The Affenpinscher is an active, curious, little breed, affectionate towards family, while at the same time being very protective of them. They can have a stubborn streak, and are sometimes difficult to housebreak.Training should start early and should be handle with a variety of different things to learn. They get bored easily and may not respond well to the same tasks over and over. This is not a perfect breed to have around very small children.

The affenpinscher is suited well for apartments. It is active indoors as well as out, so it can manage without a yard. This breed does not do well in very hot temperatures.

Some known health problems reported are:

• hip dysplasia
• collapsed trachea
• cataracts
• respitory problems

Clipping the Affenpinscher is not recommended as it can damage the coat. Regular brushing and combing is a must. Sometimes it may be necessary to have the coat plucked. If you don't know how to do this, a professional groomer may be required.Check the eyes regularly for signs of hair growing in the corners of their eyes, as this can cause irritations.Affenpinschers do not shed very much hair.