Brief history of origin
The history of the origin of the Affenpinscher breed is rather vague. What is known for sure is that they were bred in Germany in the 16th century. The first dogs were larger than their descendants, and had not only black, but also red, spotted, fawn and gray fur.
There is still debate among cynologists regarding the ancestors of Affenpinscher dogs. Some believe that dogs of this breed appeared as a result of crossing pugs, ancient hunting terriers and miniature pinschers.
According to another, the Affenpinscher is a descendant of the Brussels Miniature Griffon. True, this version hardly has any right to exist, since the griffons appeared much later than the affens. Initially, puppies were bred on farms and stables to fight rodents. Later, their purpose changed dramatically - the Affenpinscher became exclusively a decorative dog.
Until 1896, the Miniature Pinscher and Affenpinscher were considered the same breed. In 1936, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club. The FCI approved the modern breed standard in 1955.
History of the breed
The Affenpinscher's homeland is Germany. Dogs resembling him in appearance and size were depicted in paintings by German artists. These creations date back to the sixteenth century. But the history of the breed dates back to the seventeenth century.
There is no reliable information about the ancestors and the origin of the Affenpinscher. There are different versions:
1. According to one, the Belgian Griffon and Miniature Schnauzer were bred on the basis of this breed. 2. According to another version, it is believed that the Affenpinscher descended from the terrier and the Brussels griffon. 3. Another version “claims” that pug-like Asian dogs and miniature pinschers participated in the formation of the Affenpinscher breed.
Initially, the purpose of the affens was one thing - catching small rodents. The dogs were kept in stables and outbuildings, reliably protecting the owner's property from rats and mice.
A little later, because of the bulldog’s special snack, Affenpinschers attracted the attention of those who like to hunt small game. As a result, these dogs began to be used while hunting rabbits and quails.
Currently, the largest number of breeders engaged in breeding purebred Affenpinschers are located in Bavaria. Modern representatives of the breed no longer accompany their owners on hunts. Today they are indoor pets and devoted companions.
Interesting Facts
Despite the fact that Affenpinschers originated several centuries ago, they are still considered a rare breed.
Interesting facts about Affenpinscher dogs:
- During World War II, Affenpinschers practically disappeared from the face of the Earth. Only in the 50s of the twentieth century did fans of the breed decide to revive it.
- In France, the name of the breed is “Diablotin Moustachu”, which translates as “little mustachioed devil”.
- Representatives of the breed easily fit into a medium-sized T-shirt bag.
- The Affenpinscher is hypoallergenic, so it is suitable for people prone to allergies.
The Affenpinscher got its name for its unusual appearance: translated from German, Affe means “monkey.”
Photo
Brownie Kuzka
