Predecessor of the more familiar Brussels griffon, the affenpinscher is also known as the Monkey dog (Affen = Monkey). The breed originates as far back as 17th century of Europe, originally a german ratter and farmdog. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the affenpinscher was miniaturized and tranformed to a housepet. It is still, however, a ruthless hunter of mice and an outstanding watchdog. Today the breed is primarily kept as a companion dog.
The ideal affenpinscher should be small, compact and feisty looking with a monkey-like face. The head is rounded, with a sharp stop. The ears are set high, cropped or a natural V-shape. The body should be square, with little anglulation in the hind legs. The paws are short and round. he tail should be set high. The coat is hard and smooth on the body, wirey on the head, forming thick eyebrows, fringe and beard.