History an origin
This German breed has a long history, existing as early as the 17th century. Its name comes from the German word Affe translating to monkey or ape, matching its appearance. In the past, these dogs were employed in German stables to control rats and other pests that infested the place. Eventually, their role transitioned from outdoors to indoors, mostly put to work in the kitchen for ridding away mice. Over time they emerged as a dual-functioning breed, hardworking ratters in the day and dedicated companions at night.
The Affenpinscher played a significant role in developing certain breeds, such as the Miniature Schnauzer and Brussels Griffon. Affenpinscher Clubs grew in Germany and France in the latter half of the 19th century with their increasing popularity. The Berlin Lapdog Club first gave the Affenpinscher a breed standard in 1913. The American Kennel Club recognized it in 1936 and the United Kennel Club in 1957.
Temperament & behavior
Many adjectives describe their temperament, from fun-loving to playful, adventurous to stubborn, active to curious. Overall, they are loyal, bonding closely with their family. They prefer the company of adults to kids since these dogs detest rough handling or boisterousness during play. Moreover, the Affenpinscher is highly territorial about their toys and food, not willing to share with anyone. So they aren’t recommended for homes having small kids.
Overall they are quiet, occasionally barking out of agony upon sensing or experiencing any threat. They mingle well with other dogs, especially when socialized with them. However, their ratter instinct comes into play upon sighting a smaller animal, prompting them to chase. Hence, keeping them with hamsters, gerbils, ferrets, birds, rabbits, or cats is not recommended.
Appearance
The Affenpinscher is a small bundle of fur with a long-haired mane around their head that blends into the rest of the fur, which is only about 1 to 2 inches long. It is this longer hair with the beard, mustache, and eyebrows that give them the appearance of a monkey. They are small and sturdy, only about 9 to 11 inches tall, with a square body, short legs, and a medium bone structure.
The ears are cropped to make them pointed, they are erect and set high. The curved tail is set high and if docked, it is about 1 to 2 inches long. The muzzle is short and narrow with a blunt nose and a slightly undershot bite. The Affenpinscher has small round feet with black nails and paw pads. Their eyes are brilliantly dark with black rims, perfectly round and medium-shaped. The colors range from tan, red, silver, gray, and black. The red can have tints of brown or orange. A black coat can have white and silver hairs mixed in or a rusty cast?