AffenPincher is a relatively small dog breed known for its playfulness and curiosity. This breed originally comes from Germany, and is very old. They look similar to apes, and are therefore sometimes also called "Monkey Dogs". You can see this appearing trait mostly in their faces, and not much otherwise. The dog eventually split into two breeds as well, one smaller version labelled AffenPincher and the other bigger more full-sized one named DwarfSchnauzer. Both names are as you might hear German. The last-named surprisingly holds the word dwarf in it, despite its size which is, compared to the other one, not very small at all. You can find carvings of this dog breed drawn on blocks of wood as early as the 14th century, and it's much older than that. The breed was first recorded in Germany 1879. Their full origins are unknown, but the story has it that a man named L'beck was the first to systematically start breeding this race in Germany. The breed was created to hunt mice indoors, and this was a task that during this time was very important in most households, so the breed quickly gained popularity as well.
The first World Wars devastating effects on German Society left a big mark in the history of this dog breed, and there are still today very few left in the world. Overall this breed fits nicely as a regular pet, a friend. Even though it can sometimes be very angry and quick-tempered it has a warm heart and is as kind as it looks. It's also a very down-to-earth dog and it lives its days as if each one were the last. It's well aware of its importance, it is easy to train, and it's very loyal. Its fur is thick and long and covers even most of its face. It has bushy eyebrows and often also an impressive beard. The colour is usually pitch black, but can be a multitude of different colours such as grey, red, orange, silver and white. The original breed, however, is only black. This breed has a lifespan of approximately 14 years, which is more than most breeds.
In many ways the AffenPincher is a great choice for people who have not previously owned any dogs. It doesn't require much "maintenance" and it's very intelligent. Once it's been accustomed to you it will follow you wherever you go and bark loudly if anyone else tries to get near. Even though it may sound a lot at times, it's not dangerous at all. It's great with children, likes to walk occasionally and it is still considered as popular today as it was before, despite not serving the same functions now as it did then.
So far as exercise, the Chin requires a small amount of exercise. Usually the backyard is sufficient enough of an outlet for its energy or a couple short walks a day. The Japanese Chin is well suited for apartment living because of its lapdog heritage and low-maintenance exercise requirements.
The Japanese Chin has a regal appearance and one function that are of a lively and lovely companion. The Chin is happiest in the lap of its owner. Though the Japanese Chin prefers to be the center of attention they are not demanding and are quite devoted to their loved ones. A chin makes a fine companion for older children who have been instructed in this tiny dog's care and handling.
The Japanese Chin is cheerful and calm. They bond quickly to their owners and will go to great lengths to please them. Usually the Japanese Chin is easily housebroken and trained. Some might say the Japanese Chin has an obstinate side that occasionally appears, but generally, they are very accommodating. The Japanese Chin has a stronger will to please far outweigh any kind of an obstinate streak. This tiny toy breed is rarely seen in canine sports, but does do well in obedience work. The handler must be dedicated and consistent.
The height of a Japanese Chin should be 8 to 10 inches and weighs generally around 5 pounds. The smaller size is the better size with this breed.
The purpose for creating the Japanese Chin was to provide lapdogs for Japanese fanciers with the imperial aristocracy's ranks. They perform very well as loving and affectionate companions. They were carried to Europe and America in the mid-1800s. They were first known as the Japanese Spaniel. The name was changed to Japanese Chin in 1977 by the AKC.
According to some writers the Japanese Chin originated in Korea. Others give Japan as its native land. Still yet another set of writers agree that the Chin came from China, where it was bred and maintained for the aristocracy. Date of origin is sometime before 700 A.D. At this time there were several accounts of the Japanese Chin being presented to the emperor of Japan. From that time the Japanese Chin was adopted and developed by the Japanese into a lapdog.
The Japanese Chin does resemble the English toy spaniel. They may have common origins. The Japanese Chin may have been crossed with the English dog sometime during his development.
The Japanese Chin is a dainty little dog with an Oriental pug face, a lively, high-stepping gait, and a coat that is long and generally tangles free. The colors are mostly black and white patterns, although there are some lemon and white, red and white or brindle and white.
The Japanese Chin is perfect little lapdogs for small homes and apartments. They are also perfect for cute little dog outfits, and a good choice for older children, but not such a good choice for small children.