Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher otherwise called Monkey Terrier is a terrier-look toy Pinscher breed. Because of the German origin, the dog name ‘Affe’ derived from German ‘Ape’ or ‘Monkey’ and thus became popular as ‘Monkey Terrier’.
The normal weight of Affenpinscher ranges between 2.9 to 6.0 kg (6.5 to 13.2 lbs.) and typical height ranges between 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) at withers.
Appearance
The Affenpinscher has a solid rough coat when it is not clipped and if clipped it can be softer. It has a notable monkey-look. The Affenpinscher has a long hairy coat over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with smaller fur over the back and hindquarters. It has a harsh and rough surface coat. The coat can of different colors as specified by the Kennel Clubs such as black, grey, silver, red, black and tan, and a mixture of red, brown, black and white hairs. The acceptable and preferred color of the coat is black.
Temperament
Affenpinschers have a different look that some associate with terriers. They are energetic, adventurous, inquisitive, and stubborn, but they are also playful and fun-loving. The breed is confident, energetic, friendly towards the family members, and also very caring to them. This loyal tiny dog enjoys being with its family. It needs regular, steady training since some can be very difficult to train. The dog quickly gets tired, so training should be diverse.
Affenpinschers are rather territorial when it comes to their toys and food, so they are not suggested with families, especially with very small kids. The dog is naturally quiet, but can become very excited if confronted or threatened, and shows no fear toward any invader.
Lifespan
The average life of an Affenpinscher is 11.4 years as per UK survey, which is a typical life for a purebred dog. But it is slightly lower than most breeds of its size.
Shedding
The Affenpinscher frequently appears on the lists of dogs that actually do not shed (Molt). Each hair in the coat of Affenpinscher grows from a hair gland, which has a 3-phase cycle, as do most mammals. These cycles include anagen, development of normal hair, catagen, growth slows, and hair shaft thins; telegen, hair growth stops, follicle rests, and old hair falls off. At the end of the telegen phase, the hair follicle starts the cycle again. The growing and shedding time-cycle differs by breed, age, and habitats. Regular training reduces the amount of loose hair in the environment.
History
The breed has its origin in German since the 17th century. The breed predates and is familiar to the Griffon Brucellosis (Brussels Griffon) and Miniature Schnauzer. The dogs of Affenpinscher type have been recognized since the 16th century, but these dogs were somewhat larger (size about 12 to 13 inches) and came in different colors like grey, fawn, black and tan, and red. The white feet and chest were also common. The breed was created to be a ratter, working to eliminate rodents from the kitchens, warehouses, and stables.
Banana Joe V Tani Kazari (AKA Joe), a 5 years old Affenpinscher, was titled the ‘Best’ at Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City during 2013, which is a distinguished award since it is the first time this breed has won.
Also see: Difficultly Captured Photographs of Affenpinscher Puppies