The Affenpinscher (also known as the Affen or Monkey Terrier) is a small, cheerful, and loyal breed of dog that has been around since the 1600s. This terrier-like breed has a wiry coat that comes in black, gray or silver, and tan, with occasional dark highlights, land can live a long time (for a dog).
The average lifespan of an Affenpinscher is 12-15 years when properly cared for.
His small size makes him easy to transport, so he can enjoy trips to the park or even go on vacation with you. The Affenpinscher loves human companionship and will happily keep you company while you read or watch TV––just be sure to provide plenty of belly rubs
How long does an Affenpinscher live?
The average lifespan of an Affenpinscher is 12-15 years. Like most terrier-like toy breeds, Affen’s have relatively long life spans. The average is 10-13 for all dog breeds (per PetMD)
Affens need daily exercise, proper nutrition, and regular visits to the veterinarian to stay healthy throughout their lives.
Additionally, it’s essential to socialize them as puppies so they can become confident adults. Grooming also plays a significant role in keeping an Affenpinscher healthy as their coat needs to be brushed regularly and clipped several times a year.
How to Maximize an Affenpinscher’s Lifespan
Get Your Dog From a Trusted Breeder
When selecting an Affenpincher dog, finding one from a trusted breeder is important. Reputable breeders will screen their breeding stock for health issues, provide proper socialization, and have the experience necessary to recognize any potential temperament issues in puppies.
Additionally, they should be willing to provide records showing your dog’s pedigree and the parents’ health records.
A knowledgeable breeder can also provide guidance on issues such as diet, exercise and training. He or she should also be available to answer questions that may arise after you bring your puppy home.
A good breeder will also provide support throughout your dog’s life, including offering advice on care as your pup matures.
Doing a little research and asking questions can help ensure that you get the right puppy for your home. We recommend looking for puppies from reputable breeders on the American Kennel Club website.
Nutrition
Feeding an Affenpinscher is an integral part of its routine and health. Dogs need different types of food depending on their age, size, activity level, and any medical conditions they may have.
When you purchase or adopt your Affen, talk with your breeder about what food they’re feeding the pup. They should send a bag home with you.
Affenpinschers should be fed high-quality dog food.
Once you bring your dog to the veterinarian for the first time, ask about what type of food they recommend for an Affenpinscher dog, and revisit the question with them as your Affen gets older.
Medical Care
Take your Affen to the vet annually for routine check-ups and vaccinations to ensure they are healthy and safe. A healthy dog should go to the vet annually.
Make sure you research your vet ahead of time so you know that they can provide the necessary care for your Affen. If you live in the same area as your Affen breeder, ask them to recommend a Vet.
Grooming
An Affenpinscher has a harsh, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat. The texture of the coat is thick and stands off the body, much like human hair.
Grooming can be tricky as these dogs have facial furnishings that must be trimmed regularly. In addition, they require regular brushing and combing to keep their coats looking neat and healthy.
Bathe them every eight weeks or so using a mild dog shampoo.
Their ears should be checked every month for signs of infection, such as redness or a foul odor, and they should also have their nails trimmed once a week if they don’t wear them down naturally through exercise.
Exercise
The Affenpinscher is an intelligent and strong-willed toy dog and needs an owner who can provide consistent training to ensure he knows his place in the family pack.
Like all dogs, daily exercise to stay healthy and mentally stimulated, but a few walks around the block should do the trick.
Be careful in hot weather, as the Affenpinscher can overheat.
Health Problems
Affenpinscher health problems include:
- Slipped stifle, or luxating patella
- Eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma
- Allergies
- Respiratory conditions, such as tracheal collapse and reverse sneezing
- Skin conditions, including demodicosis, seborrhea, and mange
- Heart issues, like cardiomyopathy and subvalvular aortic stenosis
- Hip dysplasia
Conclusion
The key to making sure your Affen pup lives a long life is to follow a consistent routine. Feed them at the same time every day, get them plenty of exercise, and limit their access to potentially dangerous items like rawhide bones or toys with small parts.
With a consistent routine in place, you can maximize your pup’s quality of life while minimizing the amount of stress they endure on a daily basis.
About Dogcarelife: Every article on Dogcarelife.com is thoroughly researched and fact-checked, ensuring that you can trust the information you find. Visit our site to learn more about caring for your furry friend and feel confident in the advice you receive.
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