Affenpinscher
The name means monkey terrier in German and the face earns it. Bred to clear rats out of stables, so it is bolder than ten pounds of dog has any right to be.
Overview
The Affenpinscher is a German ratting terrier that got small enough to become a lady's companion without ever losing the job it was bred for. The name means monkey terrier, and the face is the reason: a short muzzle, a prominent chin and a shaggy beard set around forward looking eyes.
At seven to ten pounds it is a toy dog by size and nothing like one in attitude. It was clearing rats out of German stables and shops in the seventeenth century, and it still behaves as though it might be asked to.
Temperament
Bold, comic and entirely convinced of its own importance. Affenpinschers are confident with dogs many times their size, which is charming and occasionally a problem.
They bond closely and are affectionate with their own people while being reserved with strangers. They are not a good match for very young children, not from any meanness but because a small terrier with strong opinions does not tolerate rough handling.
Care and grooming
The harsh shaggy coat wants a brush two or three times a week and hand stripping or trimming a few times a year to keep the texture. It sheds very little.
The face needs attention that a longer muzzled dog's does not: the beard collects food and the eyes want checking. Patellar luxation and hip problems are worth asking a breeder about, as with most toy breeds.
Living and exercise
A short daily walk plus play covers the exercise. They are lively indoors and they suit a flat perfectly well.
The shortened muzzle means they cope poorly with heat, so summer walks belong at the ends of the day. They are alert watchdogs and they will bark at things, which is worth knowing before choosing one for shared housing.
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