A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a confident toy companion with a wiry coat and expressive, monkey-like facial furnishings. Make gentle face handling and twice-weekly coat work familiar parts of the routine.
An everyday routine
Plan a daily mix of walks, play, and rest. The amount that works for a particular dog depends on age, fitness, experience, and temperament.
Coat care to plan for
Set aside time each week for coat care, checking through the hair rather than only brushing the surface. Shedding periods or longer furnishings may need extra attention.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Affenpinscher questions
Do Affenpinschers shed?
Some, but not heavily. The coat is dense and harsh, about an inch long on the body. Brush and then comb twice a week, with a trim every few months because the coat grows slowly.
How big does a full-grown Affenpinscher get?
Adults usually stand 9 to 11.5 inches tall and weigh 7 to 10 pounds. The build is sturdy and compact, with a preferred height of 9.5 to 11.5 inches at the shoulder and a square outline.
How long do Affenpinschers live?
Affenpinschers typically live 12 to 15 years. That is a breed-wide figure, not a prediction for one dog.
Are Affenpinschers hypoallergenic?
No dog is completely hypoallergenic. The Affenpinscher's wiry coat is often considered hypoallergenic, which is why the breed turns up on allergy-friendly lists. If allergies are a concern, spend time with an Affenpinscher before you commit.
Are Affenpinschers good with children?
They are usually a better match for adults and older, calmer kids. The breed is not a good choice for homes with young children, because Affenpinschers typically dislike being hugged, squeezed or chased. Meet the individual dog and ask how it has handled children before.
Why is the Affenpinscher called the monkey dog?
The name is German and means "monkey dog" or "ape terrier", after the breed's whiskered, monkey-like face. The dogs were not bred for looks at first. They trace back to German stables of the 1600s, where they worked as ratters before moving indoors as mousers and companions.
What is the difference between an Affenpinscher and a Brussels Griffon?
They are related but separate breeds. The Affenpinscher is thought to have influenced the Brussels Griffon, which took shape later in Belgium from Affenpinscher-like stable dogs that are believed to have been crossed with breeds such as the Pug. The Affenpinscher has a single rough, harsh coat, while the Griffon comes in both rough and smooth coats and is a little shorter at 7 to 10 inches.
Can an Affenpinscher live in an apartment?
Yes, the size suits it. The breed is moderately active and happy in close quarters, with indoor play covering much of its exercise and a brisk walk once or twice a day on top. These dogs adjust easily to new surroundings and travel well.
