Affenpinscher - Monkey Terrier

Affenpinschers are smart, energetic, playful and feisty. They are quite intelligent and can participate in a variety of dog sports such as agility, tracking, rally and standard obedience as a sport, even though the Affenpinscher is a small breed.

Motivational tools such as treats and favourite toys in a reward-based approach may lessen their stubborn nature to training which also furthers family bonds. Affenpinschers are not recommended for children because they have a tendency to guard food or toys, making them good watchdogs.

Affenpinscher History:

The Affenpinscher is one of the oldest breeds known to man dating back hundreds of years. 16th century farmers needed dogs that could protect their homes, farms and stables from rodents. Smaller dogs than the common ratting terrier were needed to control the problem of mice. In the early 17th century, efforts began to create a smaller version of the ratting terriers.

The Affenpinscher was created by crossing the Schnauzer, Pug, German Pinscher, Miniature Schnauzer and Miniature Pinscher as well as some other German breeds.

The loveable nature and personality of the Affenpinschers enabled them to gain popularity as household pets even though the breed started out as a form of rodent control. They have still retained their mice-catching skills and it is not uncommon to find them working on a farm.