Affenpinscher: Dog Breed Profile

The smallest representative among the Pinschers is the Affenpinscher – a spirited, alert, and affectionate companion dog with a quirky – monkey-like – facial expression.

Origin and history

The Affenpinscher is one of the oldest dog breeds in Germany that has survived almost unchanged. There are depictions of wire-haired Miniature Pinschers with ape-like faces that date back to the Middle Ages. The Affenpinscher was originally bred to hunt rats and mice – today it is a rare companion dog.

Appearance

With a shoulder height of about 30 cm, the Affenpinscher is the smallest member of the Pinscher and Schnauzer family. It differs from other pinschers in its rough, protruding coat and overbite.

Its body appears stocky, its head is round and its gait is funny tripping because of the steep position of the hind legs. Also striking is the monkey-like, grumpy facial expression that gives it its name. The black coat is rough and harsh, appearing tousled, and needs regular brushing and trimming. But this breed hardly sheds.

Nature

Despite its small size, the Affenpinscher has a strong personality – fearless, alert, and sometimes passionate. He is unapproachable to strangers and dogs. In the family, however, he is clingy, tender and devoted, and completely absorbed in his caregiver.

The shaggy little dog is very adaptable and is just as at home in the country as in a small city apartment. It is suitable as a family dog ​​or for single people, is a good travel companion, and can also be taken to the office with good training. The main thing is that he gets enough attention and can let off steam while playing and going for walks.