Affenpinschers

[Chelsea]

I've really liked affenpinschers for several years now, but have been focusing more on Parson Russell Terriers. Lately I've been doubting whether russells are the right fit for me, though, so I've been browsing some other breeds. I finally got around to looking more closely at affens, and I really, really like them. I won't be getting a new dog for some time (years, probably), but I'm very interested in these little guys, and think I might eventually want to own one, be it a rescue or one from a breeder (for pet or show). The only problem is I'd have to have a retriever or two around, also (that's not much of a problem though, is it?).

Do any of you have experience with these dogs?

[Crossfire Bulldogs]

The Affenpinschers are wonderful little dogs but be warned, these little guys are a big dog in their own minds and can be very bold. There are larger dogs that do not do well with the Affen if they haven't been raised around them and can easily be provoked to attack that little dynamo. An Affen does not believe in backing down and at times will challenge even the biggest of dogs if it feels threatened.

Often called the monkey dog, I believe the nickname comes from their actions rather than facial features as the Affen is well known for its ability to walk on its hind legs rather than use all four much as the monkey would of an organ grinder. This is also a dog that will sit with its tail out between its back legs and front legs up, sitting up like a little person relaxing and their really something to see.

The Affen is extremely intelligent, loves to learn new things and very playful. A friend of mine who is owned by several calls them the Johnny Bench of the dog world since they will literally toss their toys in the air and catch them for hours on end in play. lol With correct temperament they are a gentle dog with a loving yet comedian type nature.

The best thing I can tell you to do if truly interested in this breed is to not only to your homework on the background but to also spend time with them, their much different than most dogs and have their own very unique traits.

[Chelsea]

I read somewhere that they're called "monkey dogs" for their appearance as well as their ability to walk on their hind legs and their tendancy to wrap their tails around objects (when they're left undocked).

Thanks for the info, Crossfire! I'd love to meet some; hopefully I'll track some down at the next dog show that comes to town. I'm really happy about the whole 'little dog in a big body'. If I'm going to get a little dog, I want it to have as 'big' a personality as possible.

[Cassiepeia]

I don't know how I missed this thread. As I was reading that description of them, Sonja, I was thinking how much I'd love to meet one. Ok...now you've done it. It's already 9.50pm...now I'm going to be sat in front of my computer all night looking up info and pictures of them. You've sparked my interest in a dog I'd often over looked.

Cass.