The Affenpinscher , also known as
the Monkey Terrier, is a terrier-like toy breed of dog.
Description of Affenpinscher
Appearance
An
Affenpinscher generally weighs 6.5 to 13.2 pounds (2.9 to 6.0 kg) and stands 9
to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) tall at the withers. It has a harsh rough coat when
it is not clippered and if clippered it can be softer and fluffier. It has a
notable monkey-like expression (Affe means monkey in German). Its coat is
shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with shorter coat over the
back and hind quarters. It is harsh and wiry in texture when properly
maintained. The FCI and KC breed standards specifies that the coat must be
black, but the AKC also allows grey, silver, red, black and tan, and beige (a
mixture of red, brown, black and white hairs); other clubs have their own lists
of acceptable colors, with black being the preference.
Temperament
Affenpinschers
have a distinct appearance that some associate with terriers. They are
different from terriers, however, in that they are actually part of the
pinscher-schnauzer of group 2 in the FCI classification and so often get along
with other dogs and pets. They are active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn,
but they are also fun-loving and playful. The breed is confident, lively,
affectionate towards family members and is also very protective of them. This
loyal little dog enjoys being with its family. It needs consistent, firm
training since some can be quite difficult to housebreak. This type of dog
easily becomes bored, so training should be varied. The affenpinscher has a
terrier-like personality.
Affenpinschers
are somewhat territorial when it comes to their toys and food, so they are not
recommended for homes with very small children. This dog is mostly quiet, but
can become very excited if attacked or threatened, and shows no fear toward any
aggressor.
Lifespan
A
small sample (N=21) of affenpinschers in a UK survey had a median lifespan of
11.4 years, which is a typical lifespan for a purebred dog, but a bit lower than
most breeds of their size. The most common causes of death were old age (24%),
urologic (19%), and "combinations" (14%). The affenpinscher is prone
to hip dysplasia. As with many small breeds of dog, they are prone to collapsed
trachea and luxating patella. Some are prone to fractures, PDA, open fontanel
and respiratory problems in hot weather. Cataracts are occasionally reported.
An emerging concern is syringomyelia, although the incidence is currently
unknown.
Shedding
Affenpinschers
often appear on lists of dogs that allegedly do not shed (moult). Every hair in
the dog coat grows from a hair follicle, which has a three phase cycle, as do
most mammals. These cycles are: anagen, growth of normal hair; catagen, growth
slows, and hair shaft thins; telegen, hair growth stops, follicle rests, and
old hair falls off—is shed. At the end of the telegen phase, the follicle
begins the cycle again. The length of time of the growing and shedding cycle
varies by breed, age, and by whether the dog is an inside or outside dog.
Frequent
grooming reduces the amount of loose fur in the environment.
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