How to Identify an Affenpinscher Dog

A purebred Affenpinscher adult

The Affenpinscher dog is a breed originating in Germany. Its name meaning "monkey terrier," thanks both to its size and the antics and gymnastics it will perform to get the master's attention or approval. Like most terriers, the Affenpinscher was a working dog that earned its keep by sniffing out and killing rats skulking around barns and granaries. The popularity of the dog can be successfully traced back to the fifteenth century thanks to period paintings. Several portraits include Affenpinschers being held in the laps of ladies of nobility or running around in the background of pastoral scenes. In modern Germany, Europe, and to a lesser extent America, this breed has become a wonderful pet and companion to many. Here is a guide on how to successfully identify a purebred Affenpinscher dog.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start by looking at the dog’s general size and shape. The Affenpinscher is designated as a “toy” size that ranges in height anywhere between 9 and 12 inches. This breed is heavier than it looks thanks to a high bone density and muscle mass, for that reason a full grown Affenpinscher weighs between 8 and 10 pounds. Their rear legs are slightly longer than their forelegs, making them seem arched forward and ready to pounce. The tail should be stumpy, only one or two inches long.

2. Examine the dog’s fur. It should be short and wiry to the touch. The most common color of the dog is plain black that shines in the light. Black with tan, red or grey markings also appear occasionally.

3. Look closely at the dog’s head. It should be overlarge for the dog’s body as well as having fur much thicker and longer. The dog should have long fur over its brows, a short snout, protruding jaw, short and shaggy ears that are flopped over, and big round black eyes. If the dog matches this description then you’re looking at an Affenpinscher.

Tips & Warnings

• The Affenpinscher is an alert, energetic and serious dog that feels a great need to protect its master and property, regardless of the fact that it is a tiny breed. The Affenpinscher is a very loyal and obedient breed that is also incredibly intelligent and able to learn quickly and adapt to new surroundings. This makes them a good dog to travel with; they like car rides and new places, and are not bothered by meeting new people. They are also known for being very gentle with children and other animals, though they can become territorial when around larger dogs.

• Be careful when letting this breed of dog interact with larger dogs. Affenpinschers are the proverbial big dog in a little dog's body and will think nothing of provoking a Doberman or Rottweiler that could easily kill them if it had a mind to. They’re very bold and know no fear.

Resources

• List of Reliable Affenpinscher Breeders