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Dog owners, just like their dogs, come in all sizes. If you are in the market for a small dog the Affenpinscher breed is one to consider. Known affectionately as the “Monkey Dog” due to the appearance of the breed, this breed is a unique small dog usually weighing less than ten pounds, and usually growing no taller than ten inches, even though some may grow to 12 or so inches.
In appearance the Affenpinscher resembles one of the small breeds of the Terrier family but is actually part Schnauzer-Pinscher breed of dogs. Predominately black in color, these dogs will also occasionally be silver, grey, and a tan/black combination.
Of European origin, the breed can be traced back to the 17th century. Bred as a dog to eliminate small rodents from barns and farmhouses, the breed’s moniker is a combination of the German words for terrier and monkey. These first dogs were slightly larger in height and weight and as the need to catching rodents began to diminish they have been selectively bred for the smaller dog we have now.
An excellent dog for those who live in small homes or apartments, the breed is very playful, loving, and intelligent. They are feisty and territorial as you might expect from their heritage, so bringing one into a home with toddlers and young children may not be a good idea. Use caution.
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