Affenshire

Purpose

Companion

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Affenshire is a charming hybrid breed that results from the intentional crossing of the Affenpinscher and the Yorkshire Terrier. This delightful little dog is known for its vibrant personality and compact build. Both parent breeds are recognized for their hypoallergenic qualities, and their coats can range from sleek to fluffy, necessitating regular grooming several times a week. Affenshires are characterized by their curiosity, intelligence, and a hint of stubbornness. They are quick learners, enthusiastic about participating in activities, and respond positively to training. However, due to their small size, they may not be the ideal choice for families with young children. With proper socialization and a bit of patience, this lovable hybrid can make a fantastic addition to any household.

Breed Origin

Yorkshire Terriers were developed in Yorkshire, England, in the 1800s, primarily for the purpose of hunting small vermin. They made their debut in North America in 1872, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) registering the first Yorkshire Terrier in 1885. One particularly famous Yorkshire Terrier, Smoky, weighed only four pounds and became well-known during World War II. An American soldier discovered her in a foxhole in New Guinea and sold her to Corporal William A. Wynne for approximately $6.44. Wynne frequently carried Smoky in his backpack or tucked her inside his helmet. She visited injured soldiers and bravely traversed a 70-foot underground pipe, where a phone wire attached to her collar facilitated communication between military outposts. An investigation by Animal Planet recognized Smoky as the first documented therapy dog, serving in this capacity during and after the war. Her heroic actions greatly increased the popularity of the Yorkshire Terrier breed in the United States, and a statue commemorating Smoky stands in Cleveland, Ohio. The Affenpinscher, which traces its origins to Germany in the 1600s, was originally a medium-sized dog utilized on farms and in shops to catch mice and rats. By the 18th and 19th centuries, breeders had downsized the Affenpinscher, evolving it into a companion animal. This smaller variant is believed to have been developed through the breeding of Pugs, Smooth Haired German Pinschers, and Silky Pinschers. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Affenpinscher in 1936. This breed is also thought to have contributed to the development of the Miniature Schnauzer and the Brussels Griffon. Unfortunately, the Affenpinscher faced a significant decline during World War II. After the war, breeders crossbred the remaining Affenpinschers with the Griffon Bruxellois, leading to the breed's unique facial features.

Breed Appearance

The Affenshire is a mixed breed that emerges from the combination of an Affenpinscher and a Yorkshire Terrier. Consequently, your Affenshire may display characteristics from both parent breeds. Even among puppies from the same litter, you can anticipate a diverse range of colors and markings. They may have either floppy or erect ears, and their noses and eyes are generally dark. Due to its Affenpinscher heritage, your puppy might also exhibit an underbite. This small dog is recognized for its unique and expressive facial features. If your Affenshire takes after the Yorkshire Terrier, it could have a long, silky coat, whereas those resembling the Affenpinscher may possess a coarser coat and a mustached look. In the end, your Affenshire will be one-of-a-kind, reflecting a distinctive mix of both breeds in its appearance.

Care Routine

The coat of the Affenshire can range from coarse and wiry to long and silky. No matter the texture, it’s essential to brush and comb your Affenshire several times each week. Your dedication and regularity will enhance the grooming experience for both you and your beloved pet. Before you begin combing, take a moment to carefully untangle any matted fur and gently work through knots with your fingers. Furthermore, it’s important to brush their teeth several times a week to prevent tartar accumulation, and annual dental check-ups are crucial, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Monthly nail trimming is also important to prevent breaks or tears. The Affenshire’s droopy ears should be cleaned once a month with an ear wash recommended by your veterinarian. Some pet owners choose to have a professional groomer handle bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, anal gland expression, and hair clipping on a monthly basis.

Behavior & Temperament

The Affenshire boasts a charming combination of traits from both the Affenpinscher and the Yorkshire Terrier. These breeds are often described as having the essence of larger dogs encapsulated in their compact bodies. The Yorkshire Terrier, part of the Terrier group, along with the Affenpinscher, which shares similar characteristics, is recognized for its energetic and vigilant demeanor, making them excellent guardians. Thankfully, the Affenshire does not require extensive exercise. However, it is worth noting that this breed may exhibit more playful mischief compared to the Yorkshire Terrier and could show signs of food aggression. To foster a well-rounded Affenshire, it is essential to socialize them early with both humans and other dogs. This hybrid may also have a propensity to bark; if barking becomes excessive, seeking advice from an animal behaviorist could be beneficial. Moreover, given that Yorkshire Terriers are prone to separation anxiety, the Affenshire may struggle if left alone for extended periods. On a brighter note, this hybrid is intelligent, eager to please, easily trainable, and thrives on affection.

Play & Exercise

The Yorkshire Terrier and Affenpinscher are both recognized as toy breeds, notable for their tendency to be quite vocal. If they are not properly trained or socialized, they may develop a tendency to snap. Although they are small, these breeds need plenty of physical activity to maintain their health and vitality. This requirement for exercise is also true for any mixed breed that includes them. It’s important to set aside at least 30 minutes each day for energetic play or longer walks to ensure they receive the exercise necessary for a long, healthy life. Activities such as playing fetch in the yard or engaging in dog sports can be wonderful ways to strengthen your bond with your dog while also enhancing their fitness.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

1.0 Cups

Daily Activity

30 Minutes

Average Lifespan

14 Years

Origin

Unknown

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

United States

Brush Frequency

Weekly

Coat Texture

Straight

Ancestors

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher, commonly known as the "monkey dog," gets its name from a German term that reflects its playful appearance, particularly its resemblance to primates. Initially bred for hunting rats, these dogs were also referred to as ratters. The breed originated in Germany during the 17th and 18th centuries, evolving from various small terrier breeds. Their small stature and loving disposition made them popular as lapdogs among women, leading breeders to focus on creating even smaller versions. Typically, Affenpinschers reach a height of 9 to 11 inches and weigh about 9 pounds. They have medium-length, wiry fur that comes in several colors, including belge, tan, red, silver, gray, and black. Nowadays, this breed is relatively rare and not commonly found. It is recommended to keep Affenpinschers away from households with young children, as they generally dislike being squeezed or chased.

Yorkshire Terrier

The contemporary Yorkshire Terrier is a small breed primarily valued for companionship. In stark contrast, its forebears were much larger and were utilized for hunting small rodents and other vermin. It is thought that the Yorkshire Terrier emerged from a mix of several terrier breeds, with some contributions from the Maltese. Among these breeds are the Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont, Manchester Terrier, and the now-extinct Paisley or Clydesdale Terrier. Over the years, this brave little hunting dog evolved into a trendy pet, so petite that many women now carry them in handbags or under their arms. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Yorkshire Terrier in 1885.

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Height & Weight

Weight

7 lbs (3 kg)

Male: 7 lbs (3 kg) , Female: 7 lbs (3 kg)

Height

10 inches (25 sm)

Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 10 inches (25 sm)

6 Months

3 lbs

6 inches

3 lbs ( m 3 lbs, f 3 lbs )

6 inches ( m 6 inches, f 6 inches )

12 Months

5 lbs

9 inches

5 lbs ( m 5 lbs, f 5 lbs )

9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )

18 Months

6 lbs