What You Should Know Before Getting an Affenpinscher

If you're looking for a small dog with a big personality — one who’s playful, smart, and surprisingly sturdy for a toy breed — let me introduce you to the Affenpinscher. These scruffy little charmers might look like tiny teddy bears, but don’t be fooled. They were originally bred to hunt rats in Germany and France, so there’s some serious spirit packed into that 9-pound body.

We’ve had experience with a few toy breeds over the years, and I can tell you — many of them are either super fragile or need a lot more attention than you'd expect. The Affenpinscher stands out in the best way possible. Here’s what we’ve learned about living with (and loving) this quirky breed.

Affenpinschers are smart — and they expect to be entertained

These dogs are thinkers. They love puzzles, games, and exploring every corner of your home. The downside? Without enough mental stimulation, they can get bored fast — and that’s when the mischief starts.

If you're away from home often, this might not be the breed for you. But if you’re around and ready to play, train, and interact, they’ll thrive. We’ve used treat puzzles, tug toys, and even simple hide-and-seek games to keep them engaged. It’s amazing how quickly they pick things up — but also how quickly they get sassy when you stop entertaining them.

They don’t need a yard, just your time

One of the best things about Affenpinschers is that they’re active without being exhausting. A few toys and short indoor play sessions can be enough to burn off their energy. Daily walks are still important, of course — not just for exercise, but for sniffing and exploring (which they absolutely love).

They’re great for apartment living, and we’ve had no issues keeping them happy in smaller spaces, as long as they get interaction and a bit of movement every day.

Training takes patience... and humor

Affenpinschers are clever, but they’re also stubborn. Think toddler with a sense of humor. House-training can be slow-going, and they’ll sometimes test your limits just to see what happens.

What worked for us? Consistency, gentle redirection, and lots of praise. They don’t respond well to harsh discipline — it just makes them dig in their heels. But if you keep it positive and stick to a routine, they’ll eventually get there.

Grooming isn’t hard, but you can’t skip it

That funky little monkey face? It needs maintenance. Their wiry coat doesn’t shed much, but it does need brushing a couple of times a week to prevent tangles and matting. We also do a light trim a couple of times a year to keep them looking tidy.

Don’t forget their teeth — toy breeds are notorious for dental issues. We brush a few times a week and offer dental chews to help out. Nail trims and ear cleaning are part of the routine too, especially if your pup isn't getting much outdoor wear and tear.

Affenpinschers are clingy in the cutest way

These dogs don’t like being alone. They bond deeply with their people and want to be wherever you are — on your lap, under your desk, or even following you to the bathroom.

They're fantastic companions if you're home a lot and want a loyal shadow. But if your household is gone most of the day, they can get anxious and even destructive. Having a second pet around can help, or a pet sitter if you're gone for long stretches.

Health-wise, they’re better than most toy breeds — but still need care

Compared to a lot of tiny breeds, Affenpinschers are pretty robust. They don’t suffer from as many genetic issues, especially if you get one from a reputable breeder or rescue with proper vet checks.

Still, there are things to watch for: dental problems, luxating patellas (wobbly knees), heart conditions, and sensitivity to heat due to their short snouts. We’re extra cautious during hot weather and always keep an eye out for breathing trouble or overheating.

Regular vet visits (at least twice a year) and good daily care go a long way here.

So... is the Affenpinscher right for you?

If you want a low-maintenance-in-size but high-personality companion, the Affenpinscher is a gem. They’re especially great for people in apartments or smaller homes, and for anyone who’s around enough to give them the interaction they crave.

They’re not the easiest first-time dog because of their stubborn streak, but with patience and love, they’re incredibly rewarding. We’ve found them to be affectionate, funny, and full of heart — the kind of dog that keeps you on your toes but always makes you smile.

If that sounds like your kind of pup, the Affenpinscher might just be your perfect match.