| AKC Group: | Toy |
| A.K.A.: | Affen, Monkey Dog |
| Functions: | Competition, Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1600s |
| Country of Origin: | Germany |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Black, Silver, Black and tan, Gray, Red |
| Height (Inch): | 9.5 - 11.5 |
| Weight (lb): | 7 - 9 |
| Size: | Small |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: |  |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: |  |
Appearance:
The Affenpinscher is a well-built dog that is distinguished by his shaggy coat and neat facial features. Its texture varies, dependent on where it is located. Harsh on the torso and shoulders, but only moderately harsh to the touch on the head, chest, and legs. He has a mane that mixes into his back and also bushy eyebrows and a beard. His eyes are round and are dark in color. His ears are always attentive to sounds and if they are cropped they come to a point. The Affenpinscher has a constant facial expression that is often equated to that of a monkey.
Temperament:
The Affenpinscher is always ready for fun and is also always ready to act. He often looks like he is pondering a deep thought. He is very loyal to his family and strives to please them – whether through performing tricks or through alerting them to strangers. Although usually calm, he can become excited and agitated if he feels that he is in danger. In those cases, when his defenses are up, he will become fearless. Consequently, he may try to boldly attack a dog several times his size. If the Affenpinscher has been socialized, he will get along with other family pets and children.
Health:
The Affenpinscher is a brawny dog that does not suffer from any disorders that are specific to his breed. Owners may see patellar luxation or a slipped kneecap. It can cause an unusual gait in moderate cases or lameness in more severe cases. Legg-Perthes Disease, a condition where the bone of the hip is deformed, is also seen in his breed. Although seen in many other breeds, hip dysplasia is also common in the Affenpinscher. It can cause extreme pin in the hip joint and even complete inability to move in severe cases. Lastly, heart murmurs are frequently noted in the Affenpinscher. A heart murmur may be a sign of a more severe heart condition.
Maintenance:
The Affenpinscher is not a difficult breed of dog to maintain. He simply takes a small amount of time and interest, and he can be a spectacular addition to any home. He should be brushed and combed every week. If he has knots, merely spray them with a conditioner or a solution to de-knot the fur, and then break them up by hand. He should also have the fur on his face trimmed and his coat should be hand-stripped a few times each year. The Affenpinscher will have quick tartar build-up, so his teeth should be brushed often. Take him for a quick walk through the neighborhood and he will have gotten enough exercise to meet his needs.