Origin: Germany

Description:
Originally used as a housedog in the region of Southern Germany. His ancestors were depicted by Albrecht Dürer (1471 – 1528) in his woodcuts. First entries of Affenpinscher go back to the year 1879. These Toy dogs were very popular around the turn of the century, they evolved from the rough coated Pinschers. The harsh ring of hair around the head emphasised the monkey-like expression. The colours ranged from self coloured yellowish,  reddish or grey-white to dark grey,  black-grey and pure black.
Affenpinscher has been around since the 1600's and is also known as the Monkey Terrier. The breed was developed in Germany to rid homes of mice.
This breed has a rough, coarse coat with a slightly curly yet stiff and wiry textured undercoat. The Affenpinscher comes in a wide range of colors including black, gray, silver, grayish -black, bluish-gray, black and tan symmetrical markings or red varying from brownish red to an orange tan. Daily brushing is enough grooming for this breed.
Affenpinscher's are fiercely loyal, affectionate dogs that are fearless toward agressors which makes then wonderful watch dogs. This breed does well in either the city or country. This dog will need to be watched around larger dogs.
This breed does well with obedience training with a patient instructor. Like other members of the toy group Affenpinscher's can be hard to housebreak.
Affenpinscher's should be kept out of extreme hot and cold weather.
Dogs of the Affenpinscher type have been known since about 1600, but were somewhat larger, about 12 to 13 inches, and in colors of gray, black, fawn, lack and tan, gray and tan, and even red. White feet and chest were also a common thing.
These dogs were known as Ratters or Ratting Terriers and were just the farm or store dog, running at large and sleeping in the stables, Their purpose was to kill rats.
The Affenpinscher is a balanced. wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog whose intelligence and demeanor make it a good house pet. Originating in Germany, the name Affenpinscher means "monkey-like terrier." The breed was developed to rid the kitchens, granaries and stables of rodents. In France the breed is described as the "Diablotin Moustachu" or the moustached little devil. Both describe the appearance and attitude of this delightful breed. The total overall appearance of the Affenpinscher is more important than any individual characteristic. He is described as having a neat but shaggy appearance.
No exact data about the Affenpinscher's origin exists. It is certainly related to the Brussels Griffon and probably to the terrier. It's named "Monkey Dog" because of his monkey-like facial structure and expression and his curious personality. This feisty toy dog is believed to have originated in Germany. At first a farm dog and ratter, probably larger in size, the Affenpinscher was miniaturized and became a house pet during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is a ruthless hunter of mice and an outstanding watchdog. Today the Affenpinscher is primarily a companion dog. The Affenpinscher was admitted to the American Kennel Club's studbook in 1936.
The Affenpinscher is a small dog with a harsh, shaggy coat, and longer hair all over the face. It is a smaller version of a working terrier and therefore is not a delicate dog. It has a square-body, with a deep chest and round head with a pronounced stop. The lower jaw is undershot, protruding below the dog's short nose. The black eyes are prominent and rounded. The neck is short and arched and the limbs are straight and well boned. The tail is carried high and docked to two-thirds its length. The hairy ears are customarily docked, pointed and erect, however some countries have banned docking of animal's tails and ears. The coat is usually black or dark gray, but tan and red are also acceptable. The undercoat is slightly curly.
History:

Utilization: House and Companion Dog

Behavior/Temperament:
Fearless, alert, persistent and devoted, sometimes full of quick-tempered passion. He is  an agreeable family dog in all aspects.
The Affenpinscher is a happy combination of charm and pluck. A small dog with stamina, agility, and great courage, yet upon occasion displays sensitivity and gentleness. Unusually intelligent an quick to learn, the Affen possesses a thinking process one can only observe with disbelief.
It is fair to warn a prospective Affen owner that this breed often possesses a "big dog in a small body" mentality. This boldness makes it necessary to be cautious that your little "Rottweiler wannabe" does not inadvertently provoke an attack by a large dog. It is this same bold attitude, however, that also make them such a joy to own.
The Affenpinscher has a terrier-like personality. Unlike most terriers, they tend to get along with other dogs and pets especially when they are raised with them. They are busy, bold, inquisitive and stubborn, but they also love to monkey around, being playful and mischievous. A lively sharp-witted, little dog that is courageous and confident. A fearless defender, the Affenpinscher is an authoritarian. It is very affectionate and amusing. This friendly little dog enjoys being with its family. It needs consistent, firm training. Make sure there is some variety in the training so the dog does not become bored. They learn commands very quickly. Some may be difficult to housebreak. They are not recommended for very young children, as Affenpinschers tend to guard their food and toys. They like to hike and go camping as long as the temperature stays above 20 degrees F. The Affenpinscher is generally quiet but can become vehemently excited when threatened or attacked and is fearless toward any aggressor. It may unwisely challenge large dogs and other large animals. They tend to bark and even climb. This little dog does best with a family who likes entertainment and has a very good sense of humor.

Coat:
The body coat should be harsh and dense. The head is typically adorned by bushy, bristly eyebrows and wreath-like hair surrounding the eyes, by an impressive beard, by the top knot and by the hair on the cheeks. The coat on the head should be as hard, straggly and sticking out as possible. It contributes essentially to the monkey-like general expression.

Colour: Pure black with black undercoat

Height: Dogs and bitches 25 to 30 cm 10-15 inches (25-38 cm)
Weight: Dogs and bitches : appr. 4 to  6 kg 7-8 pounds (3-3.36 kg)

Health:
Breed-related health concerns include: hyperadrenocorticism, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, patellar luxation, corneal ulcers, and brachycephalic syndrome.There are no major concerns, although some are prone to fractures and slipped stifle. Occasionally seen are PDA (patent ductus arteriosus), and open fontanel. Like any short-nosed breed, the Affenpinscher may suffer from respiratory problems in hot weather.
Life Expectancy:About 10-12 years.
Grooming:
The Affenpinscher's harsh coat should never be clipped short because this ruins the coat for many years. It should be brushed and combed weekly and it may be necessary to pluck it. A dog-trimming specialist usually does this but it is possible to learn how to do it yourself. Show dogs require stripping. Hair sometimes grows in the corners of the eyes, causing irritation; they should be dealt with promptly. This breed sheds little to no hair.

Good with children: yes
Good with dogs: yes
Good with other pets: yes