The Affenpinscher, although a small dog, weighing between 7 to 12 pounds and standing between 8 to 12 inches tall, is a very sturdy and compact dog with medium bone structure.  Their coats are shaggy in appearance and non-shedding.  The texture of the coat is rough, dense and harsh and about 1 inch in length on the shoulders and body.  His coat needs no special care other than a good brushing once a week.  However if you  are going to show your dog, then, as with most show dogs more care is needed.  The coat then will most likely need to be brushed two to three times a week.  The hair around their eyes should be trimmed to avoid eye irritation but their coat should be plucked not trimmed.  This is a job best left to a professional groomer.  Black is the most common color of the Affenpinscher but they can also be gray, silver, red, black and tan or beige.

The Affenpinscher is considered to be a healthy breed with few hereditary health problems.  They do however have a predisposition to cataracts and luxating patellas better known as trick knee.  Their light frames can also make them more vulnerable to broken bones.  They can also be prone to hip dysplasia(ball and socket joint).

Affenpinscher do tend to have a stubborn streak which can make them difficult to train.  Some Affenpinschers can be quite difficult to housebreak so it is imperative that training begins at an early age.  As with all dog training you need to be consistent and firm.  Affenpinscher tend to become bored easily so although you should follow a recognized training regime, the training should also offer some variety to keep their interest.  They are a very clever dog and will perform challenging tasks quite well.  You can achieve good results if you make your training sessions full of fun for the both of you.  Agility classes may be a consideration for this breed.
The Affenpinscher is well suited to life in the country or to life in the big city.  They do well living in an apartment.  Although this breed is active and energetic, indoor play can fulfill its exerise needs.  However just like every other breed of dog they should be taken out for a daily walk.  They not only enjoy the walk but all the smells in the outside air.  I always think of the dog walk as their time to communicate with other dogs and animals that have been around the area.

This breed makes a good family pet but not families with small children.  Since they weree originally bred as rodent hunters they are a prey driven dog.  They can harm small objects or creatures and they will tug and chew with things like loose clothing. The Affenpinscher is very territorial and they are not good at sharing toys or food.  Problems could arise if a toddler went to grab a toy or food that belongs to the dog.  However they do love being with their family and are quite loyal towards their family.  Although they are generally a quiet dog they can become quite excited when threatened or attacked and are very courageous.  They will not back away from an aggressor.

On the other hand they are often referred to as a class clown.  They are full of mischief fun-loving and playful.  They are curious and inquisitive dashing around checking out new things.  They also adjust well to change and this trait makes them an excellent travelling companion.  To this breed home is where the family is.

Maureen Brownell