The Scarecrow's Affenpinscher Guest Book

Please Click Here to leave your comments or Affenpinscher story in this Guest Book.

I receive lots of amazing stories about visitors own pets and I think you may like to share them amongst all Affenpinscher lovers. Just click the link above, fill in the form and enter your comments. They normally appear hear within a day. Thank you for your comments, I think people like to read them even more than the main WEB pages.

Bert Boyd ( BertBoyd@columbus.rr.com ) 31 August 2003 18:31
Columbus, Ohio
I acquired my first affenpinscher in November 1999 at a local pet store.  My 9 yr old son and I  instantly fell in love with this 2 pound black puppy and was reluctant to purchase him because we had a 12 year old yorkie at home plus my husband said, "No more dogs!"  I went home and researched the internet for more information about affenpinschers. The more I found out, the more I fell in love with the breed. The fact that they are referred to as a monkey dog fascinated me even more.   Coming up with his name was rather interesting.  We tried to arrive at a famous monkey name for him.  As soon as I asked the question " What's that monkey's name in the Walt Disney movie "Jungle Book"  My kids instantly said "King Louie".  His name would be "Louie".   Abbey didn't like Louie at first.  She would growl at him if he got too close.  Louie knew she was the alpha dog and quickly learned his boundaries. They eventually learned to love one another and got along very well.  Abbey only lived for 10 months after we acquired Louie.  She obtained a huge tumor on her stomach and surgery was no guarantee she would survive the anesthesia. Her health was deteriorating and the tumor was making it difficult for her to get around.  So rather than put her through any more pain we made the most difficult decision of our lives and that was to put her to sleep.  My husband and I struggled with who was going to take her to the vet for her last day. As difficult as it was, we finally decided that we both would take her.  That was the most gut wrenching experience we've ever endured.   Abbey did serve as an excellent role model and was instrumental during Louie's housetraining process.  Having Louie didn't replace the love we had for Abbey.  However, our energy did reach out to Louie, because he was missing Abbey too!  Having that burden lifted, by caring for him, made coping with our loss meaningful. The world may change from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of Abbey shall never pass away.   Four months later we acquired our second affenpinscher.  When I found out there were red affen's I desperately tried to find one!  After much hard work I was given the opportunity to acquire a red female affen located in Gulf Breeze, Fla.  My husband and kids instantly fell in love with her photo.  To make a long story short, I flew to Florida a week before Christmas and adopted a 9 month red affen named "Reggae Sunsplash Affenhaus" nickname "Marley."  There's an annual Reggae Sunsplash Festival in Florida and her owner said that if she was fortunate to breed a red affenpinscher she would name it Marley after "Bob Marley"  one of the most legendary Reggae artists of our time. He sang that song, "Don't Worry Be Happy".  Marley is definitely a happy dog and her name fits her well. Simply adorable with her red coat and black beard she is a most loveable puppy.  Marley has more monkey like characteristics than Louie. When I brought her home Louie was a much perkier dog.  He now had a lively companion one in which he could chase after and play with.  He couldn't do that with Abbey due to her inability to get around.   Louie is four and Marley is two. They are like two peas in a pod.  Louie and Marley love to travel, especially to the park to chase rabbits.  Marley loves to nibble on Louie's neck and cuddle up next to him for daily naps.  Sometimes they get in high gear and run around the house like racehorses.  Marley stands on her back hind legs and pats her front paws together when she wants something. It's hard to explain but Marley often times will sit like a bear in a corner. It's a very relaxed position which is quite comical to see!  She is more reserved and docile which makes her personality very cute.  But if another dog infringes on her man Louie, watch out, she will let them know that Louie is her man!   I really appreciate your website.  Especially the grooming portion.  I love grooming and caring for my affenpinschers.  It's a special time to bond with them. It's quite gratifying to see them react after I groom them.  It's almost like they know they look good.  Their tales wag and they prance around showing off their new do!  I love them very much.

georgia ( georgia@montana.com ) 24 August 2003 06:18
Missoula, Mt.
I've just been amazed at the Affens that have been rescued/adopted from Shelters.  My story:  My Grandmother had a small long haired Chuiuilla that had to be euthenized.  On that day, my vet came over to take over that task, and my mother, grandma and I went to the Shelter to find another companion for Grandma.  We didn't want her to be without company!!  Well.......There he was, listed as a Yorki-cross.  They weren't sure.  What a cutie, just 9 months old.  His owner had to return to work and just didn't want him to be home all alone.  Grandma always wondered  just what his actual breed was.  She was 96 on her last birthday and I had promised that I would take care of Bebe for her when she passed.  She was sooooo worried about him.  Last year, Grandma passed, and I got Bebe!!!  What a little sweetie.  I was watching a Dog Show one evening, and there he was.  He was an Affenpinscher!!!  I was so excited to find out what he was, ran over to moms just next door to tell her.  Couldn't believe our eyes.  I just wish Grandma had known for sure.  Anyway, this little guy is so smart and has taken to me well.  Of course, I use to see him almost daily.  He always has one eye on me, does a little grunting noise to get my attention, and is on my heels every time I move.  Loves to ride in the car, and can hardly get him out.  I am considering getting another sometime in the future.   Such a wonderful inheritance for me!!!!! 

Teresa Wilson ( tess_wilson_2000@yahoo.com ) 29 July 2003 03:34
I have been enjoying your website. We have two Affens...Kirby is a year and a half, and is quite small. He weighs only 5 and a half pounds, and is brown and beige with a black muzzle. Kirby's ears have not been bobbed, and they stick straight up. Toby has the more traditional size and appearance, and is black.
Both dogs keep us entertained.  Kirby loves to watch TV, and is a couch potato!  He loves shows about animals (either real or animated) and will attack the TV and try to climb inside to see where the intruders are. I am wondering if you have ever heard of an Affen who loved to watch TV?  In the evenings Kirby loves to sit in my lap and watch TV with me...though, I have finally gotten smart and skip over those shows that feature animals!  Otherwise, Kirby goes crazy.
Toby is a shoe thief, though he doesn't damage the shoes, he just likes to steal them and take them outside.
They are a big part our lives, and we are devoted to them...and they are to us.  These dogs have wonderful dispositions, and are full of life and fun!

Cheryl Duke ( duke10@esper.com ) 10 July 2003 15:30
Knoxville, TN USA
Last fall my little yorkie who I had had 16 years  went to doggy heaven.  I have always been a yorkie owner but decided to go with another breed.  I was introduced to an affen through a friend and fell in love with the breed.  I searched for months looking for a breeder.  I finally found a breeder and got a female affen. I must say....she certainly rules the roost around my house.  She was 12 weeks old when I got her and now is 6 months old.  She is still in the chewing stage, chewing on everything she can get her mouth on.... and hopefully will outgrow this stage in her life.  She is very intelligent except when it comes to housebreaking....and I think sometimes she just has an accident to get attention!  She can be quite stubborn.  She is always in to something and loves chasing leaves and fire flies. She is quite a little comedian.  She loves to run and walks 3 miles with me every night without hesitation.  I have always had Yorkies until now......and She is definitely a different breed of terrier. ...more active and not as loveable....But I love her just the same.  She is already spoiled rotten.  I would recommend an affen, especially if you love to laugh.

Debbie Russell ( drussell@sphllp.com ) 10 January 2003 21:51
Houston, Texas Grendel and Ophelia
Greetings, While visiting your wonderful guest book, I was laughing out loud.  What delightful creatures these guys are.  I have two, Grendel (6 years) and Ophelia (8 months), that I find to be as different as day and night. Grennie is very short and compact and intensely serious while Ophie is tall and heavy (not fat) and silly as all get out.  When Ophelia first arrived, Grennie was traumatized.  He sat in the corner with his face to the wall and would try to eat her if she came near him, but now he loves (okay, maybe likes) her and they play together constantly.  However, she is very respectful of her big brother and seems to know when it is time to back off.
I was so glad to hear descriptions from your other guests about the grunting noises.  Grennie has always made these weird little sounds when he is excited and I never knew what they were - thought they were throat problems - now I know he is "purring".  Ophelia is very quiet except when we have visitors and she goes absolutely insane.  No one will ever sneak into my house or yard.  I was hesitant about adding a third dog (I also have a little terrier mix), but now that I have three, I really want another one. It seems the more the merrier when it comes to affens.

Julie Mullen ( juliemullen@onetel.net.uk ) 29 December 2002 20:55
Thank you so much for taking the time to set up your wonderful website.  I enjoyed it very much.  We have a golden retriever puppy called Billy Somerset but would like another dog.  I am very enthralled by your information and wonder if you could give me some links to breeders as the web link did not work on my system. Thank you in advance. Best wishes. with love to your dogs....xxx....

shelly turbam ( hugedreamfan@hotmail.com )
Hello there! I adopted an affenspinscher a little over a year ago. she is my one and only love! i purchased her from adorable affens. the breeder was connie dringman, who can't be beat! my dog is a female and i named her kitty, after my loving daughter, in which i recently lost due to a car accident. kitty was pre-spoiled before she was shipped to me in louisiana. she had written health guarantees and had a health check by the local vet! the first week i had her she wrecked my lovely victorian home by chewing! i hated her! but i've grown to adore her! she's now my best friend and loyal companion, who is now age 1 and 1/2. see you later.

Candy Clark ( candyc@FirstStateKS.com ) 22 August 2002 21:15
Kansas, USA
I lost my little Westie last summer...she was 16 years old and the sweetest little girl in the world.  I had looked thru a dog breed book the last year of her life and decided I wanted a small dog that I wouldn't have to groom....I couldn't have another Westie, because I would always remember my Lucy.  I opened the Toy breed section and the first little face I see was AFFENPINSCHER.....and it was instant love.  I live in Kansas, and when Lucy died, a friend got on the Internet and found a breeder here in Ks.  My daughter called her and arranged for me to get a puppy from a litter that was due in a month and would be ready in Oct, when I had two weeks vacation. I wasn't sure I could accept a new love, it was a week after I had lost Lucy.

The breeder called me and ask me if I would be interested in a little male who was 3 months and needed a home....I said no, I didn't want a maleand she said she would save a little girl for me.  I didn't sleep that night and all I could think was "he needs me and I need him".  I called the next day and my daughter and I drove up that weekend to "just meet him".  Alot of puppies were around my feet when I went in.....but one little fellow sat down by my foot and waited patiently for me to pick him up....you guessed it....It was my little Hobbs.....and it was love at first sight.  I brought him home and I have been grateful for him every single day since.....even when I find a little "mark" on the corner of the sofa or a new shoe chewed up or he chases the cat all over the house...(she loves him though, and they
are dear friends).

I read the stories on you site, and had to laugh....I am so glad there are other Affen-addicts in the world!!!  I haven't found anyone else in the vicinity that even has one and they are so dear and special I would like to hear from others who have the same love for them I do.  The stories by Nancy had me laughing out loud. 

One night I heard a ghostly howl coming from downstairs and went down to see what it was....Hobbs had climbed into the sink (a trick he learned from his sister the cat) and had gotten in some dishes....and got a plastic cup (that had been used for a root beer shake) stuck on his face.  He couldn't get it off and couldn't see to move and was sitting there just howling into the cup waiting for a rescue!  He keeps me in stitches every day.  I am sure the "monkey dog"nickname is not only from their appearance!

I would love to hear from other Affen lovers!  thanks..Candy

Helen Ross ( luvmycats6@sympatico.ca ) 10 May 2002 15:48
Toronto, Ontario
Just wanted to say how adorable this breed seems to be.  I found a dog show on TV the other night from New York City, a rerun, but they were all small breed dogs, and this little guy got Best of Show.  I had never heard of the breed, and I am really a cat person, but if I were in the market for a small dog, I do believe I would have to consider the Affenpincher.   Love your website, the dog who won looked like Ami with the haircut.   That's it, just wanted to express my feelings.   Hope the weather is as good in the UK as it is here in Ontario, Canada.

Tammy Alaoui ( tammy.alaoui@jqh.com ) on 16 February 2002 15:59
town: Dallas, Texas
country: USA
I just adopted my little Zevie girl from a shelter.  She is a 2 year old Affen.  She as very cautious and standoff when I first met her.  I am sure that is a result of her her living in 5 different homes in the last 7 months. I am so thankful that we found each other.  She is so playful and happy.  She observes everything I do.  When I talk to her she listens attentively, like a human! I am housebreaking now.  I am sure our difficulties are a result of her confusion with the new home and that I have no doggie door, like she had in the shelter.  It will work in time with crate training. I brought her home as a companion to my shihtzu.  They are a great match.  As a matter of fact she has brought out a differnt side of my shihtz that I had never seen before.  He is now so playful and romps along with Zevie. This is a very intelligent breed that adds a zest of life in my home.  I recommend the Affenpinscher to anyone looking.
Tammy

Martha Waltien ( Mwaltien@cs.com ) on 12 February 2002 18:08
town: Bayside, Queens, New York City
country: USA
I greatly enjoyed reading your comments on your Affenpinschers and it only confirmed for me and my husband what we strongly felt and hoped for all along: that our adopted Darcy is indeed probably a full bred Affenpinscher.
But I do want to make some comments which are at a slight variance with what anyone else has said.  We got Darcy at the no-kill shelter near our home, and she was described as a terrier mix.  No one in the shelter seemed to know what an Affenpinscher looks like, exactly, and neither did we, till we did a lot of reading and research, and we told them later that she seemed to be that breed.  The "variance" that I wanted to mention is that although Darcy is fabulous and adorable, she is also one heck of a demanding little dog.  She orders me around all day long and does not respond to traditional training techniques.  We once hired a trainer, but he treated her as if she were a tougher (physically) dog than she is, and after one session, we discontinued using the trainer, and I now believe, from reading your web site, that we did the right thing.  We found Darcy at the shelter when she was already 8 years old!  She was brought in to the shelter two months earlier by a slightly mentally ill lady who had the good heart to take her to this loving, no-kill shelter when this lady was unable to keep her due to housing concerns.  I asked the staff, how is she?  They said right off, well, she doesn't get along with other dogs or cats and she bit the staff several times, but she is very playful and affectionate.  One kennel worker told me that she was one of her favorites even though she was so demanding, because of her adorable affectionate nature and love of play.
Your web site helped me enormously for the following reason: I now believe that it is acceptable that Darcy "has" to be on my lap, "has" to be the center of attention, that she insists on barking or chasing away the cats if they come within 6 feet of her biscuit or "her" sofa (but she is not otherwise aggressive with them at all).  I feel that it is her nature to be the way she is and not that she needs to be "trained" to be different.  I am so grateful for your web pages and for the guest notes, all of which I read.
Darcy is exhausting, I will admit to you, though, and a lot more work than our previous adopted dogs, both of which were her size but A LOT less demanding or active.  But, we love her very much.  In fact, we are deeply attached to her, as she is to us!
I wish to add a description of some of her behaviors which are very different than our previous toy mixed breed dogs:  She loves to have a squeaky toy thrown, takes it and squeaks it in her mouth and comes to me to tease, wanting me to "wrestle" with her a bit, then she drops it on the ground in front of me and demands that I throw it hard across the room, repeat, repeat, etc.  She is exactly as you say: she loves to sit in my lap with her front paws on my chest and lick my face with a tongue that is almost like a lizard's: long and quick.  She is amazing with leaves in wind: when they blow, she races up into the air, catches several at once in her mouth by the stems, and runs around with them in her mouth.  She is always catching leaves, and I think that this is like a mouse or rat (as when the Affen was bred in Germany to catch rodents on farms).  She has fabulous hearing (extraordinary) and sight.  She needs short outdoor exercise bursts, then falls asleep on the sofa again.  She is a one person dog, attached to me who "saved" her and who is with her all day, and she will become jealous of my husband, although she loves him, too.

Ramona Fisch ( Ramona930@aol.com ) on Saturday, August 18, 2001 at 00:25:34
town: MILFORD OHIO
country: USA
comment: First and foremost, I must say that your website made the decision for me to bring an "affen" into our home.  It started this way....
My husband, Ralph, promised our son, Brian, that if he made the honor roll (he was in the 5th grade) that he could have the little "yorkie" that he so much wanted.  You see Brian has a love for little things.  We have a friend in New York that has a yorkie named Holly.  Brian met and fell "in love".  Well, to make a long story short Brian made the honor roll and the promise was to be fulfilled.  Our sons were visiting their grandparents in New York when we decided that we would surprise Brian on his return home.  Well, I was at a neighbor's having coffee and the paper was on the table.  I looked in the ads and read "Yorkie-mix" puppies for sale.  I inquired what they were mixed with and you can imagine my surprise when she said "affenpinscher".  Of course, I replied with "excuse me"?  I went home and did research on the internet and read your web page and said "this is it".  My husband was determined to get a yorkie because that was the promise to Brian.  Well, after going to look at the little dude I couldn't resist.  I told the breeder "please hold him I will be back as soon as I tell my husband" - I had taken a neighbor with me for back-up.  I was so excited.  I knew that if Ralph would have been with me he would not have left without him (Ralph is a real softy).  When I got home I told him "he looks just like a yorkie.  You see the mother was the afen and the father the yorkie.  What a wonderful mix.  I explained to Ralph that we could get a yorkie - $400.00 or more,  or a "knock-off" for $200.00.  We still laugh at the comparison.  Well, my (listen to me) I mean Brian's knock-off is a heart stealer.  He keeps us laughing.  He was so little when we got him I wouldn't let Brian sleep with him because I knew if he rolled over he would certainly crush him.  Well, we have had "Max" four months now and he sleeps with Brian every night.  I'm known as Max's "Granny" and Brian is his "Dad".  My first son, Bradley, is "Uncle Bradley" and Max loves his Uncle Bradley and likes to occassionally "spend the night" with him.  He loves to have his belly rubbed and loves our 3 cats and Toby (my 3rd son, a Bichon-Frise).  Toby even lets Max hang on his ears and tail.  This is another great breed which I would recommend for anyone.  Max even kisses the kitties.  He loves stuffed animals and the bigger the better.  He drags them downstairs and sleeps with them.  He is such a character.  Max also likes to "army crawl" as Brian calls it.  He puts his hind legs out and pulls his upper body along.  He even break-dances.  He does love to tease though and likes to play chase.  When he plays chase with Toby and Toby finally catches him Max rolls over and surrenders.  Max is fast and really aggravates Toby.  He hides on the side of the couch and looks to see which side Toby will come to before he takes off, he is so smart. They are great companions for eachother.  I do want to add a suggestion for anyone who has an "affen".  We put bells on Max's collar so that we are aware where he is at all times.  They are easy to step on and slide across the room.  Max also has a red sweater that he wears outside to keep him warm.  He  also likes to play in the shower when I get out in the morning.  He is also a good watch-dog.  One night I took Max to bed with my while my husband was down in his office catching up on some work.  When he came upstairs and went to open the door Max stood up and started barking.  I almost came out of bed and my husband almost had a heart attack.  I said "I guess we don't have to worry about anyone getting me in the middle of the night"!!   
Well, I guess I rambled on enough.  I will highly recommend that anyone looking for a small breed look into the affen or a mix.  They are great and will keep you laughing for years to come.  Max is a wonderful addition to our "zoo" and we would not trade him for anything.  He keeps us laughing.  He truly is a "Yorkie" knock-off!!  He also lives up to his name - thinks he is a "big" dog.  Max looks like a Yorkie but has the personality of an "affen".  Again, thanks for the info and the wonderful and informing web page.

Erica Cohn ( e_cohn@yahoo.com ) 20 December 2001 16:47
town: Westchester, NY
country: USA
On May 4, 2001, my dog Rex became missing.  He was last seen in our Westchester, NY back yard.  We have done a thorough search, including placing flyers all over our neighborhood, contacting an agency that was supposed to place flyers within a 30 mile radius, hired a detective (whom we never saw despite the fact that we paid the agency over $5000.00 for his services), put Rex's picture on diner placemats, and went door to door looking for him.  We even hired a pet psyschic.  Rex was/is the best friend I ever had. I miss his little monkey face everyday, and still dream about him every night.  We have had no leads as to his whereabouts.  I think someone picked him up and drove off with him.  Hence, he can be anywhere.  I would do almost anything for any information that would lead to his safe return.  He is about 9 lbs with a white patch on his chest and some brown around his muzzle (the rest of him is black).  He has long legs, and is very friendly.  Please let me know if you hear of any information.  Thanks, Erica

Betsy and Jon ( Jewi2@aol.com ) 14 December 2001 16:37
town: Lancaster, PA,
country: USA
I sent an email to Nancy about Goblin already, so I'll just say that he's from our Humane League, mixed withh poodle and ??? which might be fruit bat!  Now that we've read about Nancy's Affens, though, we think the "fruit bat" qualities are Affenpinscher instead!  He's very vigorous and talkative, especially with our Shi-tzu, Annie, also from the Humane League. Their favorite pastime is chasing and wrassling each other thruout the house, carrying one piece or other of the dog bed, which is bigger than either of them!  Goblin is a joy to get to know, and so funny!  We know he's not pure Affen,  and no good for any breeding or anything, but we're so glad we are getting to know this rare breed!

Valarie Davis ( Paradisefound915@aol.com ) 30 October 2001 13:16
town: Lakeland, Fla
country: USA
What a surprise to find so much info about this great little dog.  We adopted our Bebe from the local SPCA two years ago.  My daughter and I went looking for a new dog when we lost our choc. lab.  Bebe was kept in the Cat Room because she was so small, and she was classified as a mix breed.  We fell in love with her funny little face and took her home.  My husband couldn't believe we brought home the "monkey dog" as he called her.  By the way, she is his "girl".  She was pretty sick when we got her and it was our vet that told us she was an Affenpinscher.  Imagine our surprise that we found a Piccaso at a yard sale.  Needlesstosay, Bebe is the best dog we've ever had and believe me we've had many over the years.  She is so intelligent and is so good natured we can't understand why anyone would give her to the SPCA, but we're awfully glad they did.  If we could find another one in our area, we'd snap it up in a heart beat.  Thanks for letting us share Bebe's story with you.

Camilla Stridsberg (fam-stridsberg@swipnet.se) on Saturday, August 18, 2001 at 00:25:34
town: Malmö
country: Sweden
comment: Always fun to read about affenpinschers. Do you like to see affenpinschers from Sweden? My homepage: http://home.swipnet.se/affenpinscher
All the best Camilla

J L A Roberts( JLAROBERTS@aol.com )
Gray, Tennessee
USA
My wife and I enjoyed your web page immensely.  We obtained our Affenpinscher who is eight months old and very playful just three weeks ago and have fallen in love with him.  He fits in very nicely with our other three dogs, an Australian Terrier, a Cocker Spaniel and a Spaniel mix.  He also gets along nicely with our four cats.  We live in the Northeast corner of the state.

Hi My name is Suzanne Pirrie,I liked reading about your affenpinschers, I have got 5 Affens that I like to show, I had my first litter in 1999, and hope to have another litter soon. I think Affens are ideal for modern life they fit in the average house car etc but they have a huge personality and character, you can never be sad with an Affen they make you laugh every day.  e-mail all@rpirrie.fsnet.co.uk

Betty Schwartz( roblizschwartz@home.com ) February 23, 2001
Lakewood Colorado
  My Affenpinscher was a found dog.  My son found her running around a church parking lot in the middle of a fierce snow storm in 1993.  No one claimed her after extensive advertising.    The vet we took her to did not identify her as an Affen.  We were able to do that through research.  The vet felt she was  about a year old.    She was already spayed and house trained.  She is the most delightful dog I have ever had.  Her appearance and characteristics all match an Affen.  Her name is Liz, as in Queen Elizabeth.  And as you describe, she makes this little grunting noise when she's happy - especially when I get the leash for a walk.  Your site was the first reference to that that I have read.    At first we thought it was a physical problem and the vet couldn't understand what we were talking about.  Of course she never did it at the vet's.  She isn't particularly happy to be there.  Another quirk is rolling on to her back for her tummy to be rubbed when I go to pick her up.  She is fiercely protective of me and would take on all comers if not restrained.  She really thinks she's a BIG dog.  She delights in chasing after her stuffed and rubber toys.  However, she will not bring them back to me.  She just chases, shakes and drops them.  Sometimes she shakes them so hard I'm afraid she's going to hurt her neck.  She loves riding in the car, walks and sitting on my lap - especially when I'm at the computer.  She's sleeping there right now!  I get many compliments on her and a lot of "what kind of dog is that?"  and "where can I get one?"  Thank you for your web site.  It was very helpful to me.     

I really enjoyed your webpage. Our family has been thinking about getting an Affenpinscher after falling absolutely in love with one at a dog show. Your stories of your charming dogs gives a very informative & realistic view of real, everyday life with these little guys. Thanks!
Kathi Stoops. FndThCure@aol.com

CCol424231@aol.com (Patricia Coleman) on Wednesday, November 22, 2000 at 01:21:57
town: USA
country: Jacksonville
comment: In March of this year we were the proud owners of a beautiful 8 week old Affenpincher female baby!  The incredible part of this was that a few years ago, a friend of ours told us about a local breeder that had been sited for "indecent conditions" and wanted to know if we would help take in some of the dogs.  When we were first involved most of the animals were either deceased, hospitalized, or adopted.  When I walked in, an unusual looking little dog was in a dirty crate.  All I could really see was it's shiny little black eyes.  I don't know why, it's not my nature to "fall in love" with a pet (we have two children and have had many fish, turtles, dogs, cats, over the years).  But I truely feel in love with this little person. The breeder's name for her was "Monkey".  I brought her home and found her to be the most caring, loving, devoted animal I had ever encountered.  We all loved her deeply.  Unfortunately, she died after we had had her only a bit over a year.  The Vet said she had been so "over-bred" when we first brought her home that she may not live long.  Needless to say, my heart was broken.

After the loss of her, I didn't have an interest in "getting another dog" as my husband and children tried to make me feel better about.  I told them if we ever have another pet in our home it well be an Affenpincher.

Well, my husband took upon himself to search for an Affenpincher puppy.  He told me what was up to after he had found some information, but most of the puppies available were either out of the country or far north.  We communicated with some of these breeders but were skeptical after our previous experience with the treatment some breeders subject animals to.  We finally found a breeder in Florida (this was after more than a year's search).  I was determined that the only way was to be able to visit where the breeder lived and where the animals were born/raised. 

Anyway,that brings us back to the beginning.  We have been blessed with a wonderful little Affenpincher.  She's now eleven months old and incredible!  We did name her "Monkey", after my first introduction to this breed, which I actually regret after knowing her.

I wanted to tell you a couple of things about her antics;
I have a daughter, 9 years old, she loves Barbie dolls, but Monkey doesn't.  For some reason, from the very beginning, Monkey would get any Barbies left on the floor an hide them, then you would see her come running across the room with her hidden treasure tossing it in her mouth, growling like crazy!  At first site my daughter was in "Barbie shock", but it was so funny and unique that she went an found the Barbies she didn't play with anymore and these became Monkey's toys (my daughter also keeps her dolls picked up and not left where Monkey can reach them, which by it self is great!).

The only other thing I'm going to bore you with (because I could go on and on) is that I have two kids, a 13 year old boy and a 9 year old girl.  They love Monkey.  My son sits and reads and Monkey sits curled on the top of the sofa with her paws touching his shoulder, he says he likes the way she makes him feel.  My daughter doesn't like being alone and everytime she goes to bed Monkey goes in with her, which is odd because when my daughter falls asleep, we come in to feed the fish and give a final good night look and Monkey always gets up and comes in with us for the night.

This is a most unusual, wonderful breed of dog. 

Thanks for listening!
Patti Coleman

JoAnn (ellisj00@yahoo.com) on Sunday, August 20, 2000 at 06:06:48
town: Amarillo, Texas
comment: You have a nice website. Thank you for letting me visit.
JoAnn
http://www.geocities.com/ellisj00/reliv.html

Nancy (NBO052155@aol.com) on Thursday, August 10, 2000 at 06:23:23
town: Peoria
country: USA
comment: I have my second Affenpinscher, a female named Madelyn, nickname Miss Maddy.  She is now a year and a half old.  I got her when she was over 4 months old and in that time she had been in been in three different households.  She is very precocious and is very active most of the time.  She has only two speeds...mach III and sleeping!  She chews constantly on anything she can get ahold of.  She seems to have two distinct personalities...she is either very affectionate or very obnoxious (playfully).  Housebreaking has been a problem...she still continues to have accidents at times when we are not watching her.  She has her own doggie door and can go outside whenever she wants, but she still occasionally urinates in the house...I think it is her form of protest because we are not watching.  She is quite the character and totally unlike my first affenpinscher, Sophie, who was very sweet and attached...not in the least bit independent.  She died at six and a half years old. !
 Maddy has never bitten anyone...she chooses to scamper away from people that she doesn't want to touch her.  She loves to sit on my husband's lap at the computer and watch the mouse!

david yerks   andrew young (andrewpyoung2@hotmail.com) on Sunday, July 9, 2000 at 07:28:16
town: palm springs, california
country: USA
comment: we adopted "Jack" from a local shelter.  we had no idea just what he was, his paperwork said," pug mix".  i described him to my sister and she said he was a affenpinscher.  and indeed he is!  he has a very bubbly personality, and likes rough play. he has a rather peculiar ritual, he takes a "time out"  , that is he will hold a stuffed toy in his mouth and will simply stay put as in a trance.  we adopted him as a companion for our maltese.  they were fast friends, and are now inseperable.  we are considering another affen, however they are a rareity here as well.  we feel very lucky that he found us and convinced me to love him.  thanks for your information, andrew young and david yerks

hermengi@yahoo.com (Maureen Monteiro.) on Saturday, May 20, 2000 at 19:33:48
town: Endicott, New York
country: USA
comment: Enjoyed the variety of fptos and the heartwarming stories.  So- in sime circumstances- Aff's. can get along with a cat or two!  My cats are all laid back except for the baby; small- a Korat.  She's everyone's baby.

mandy (scruff1@scruff1.worldonline.co.net) on Saturday, May 20, 2000 at 11:00:02
town: swindon
country: england
comment: i finally got Affenpinscher after waiting for 5 years and he is absolutely addorable very hard to find one locally though absolutely addorable little dogs would not be without him

Göran H  (g.h@helsingborg.mail.telia.com) on Saturday, March 18, 2000 at 17:36:11
town: Helsingborg
country: Sweden
comment: Ihave an affenpincher named rut 2 years old. Please send me some nice pictures of affenpincher?
thanks

Maria (tuxie@mediaone.net) () on Wednesday, January 5, 2000 at 01:23:05
town: New Bedford, MA
comment: I am the proud owner of two wonderful Affenpincher's, Tuxie and Alien. They are 1 year old.  I could say so many wonderful things about my guys, but there just isn't enough room on this page.  They have brought more joy to my life, than I could ever tell you.  I will always be an Affenpincher owner.

Jeff (jcheled@aol.com) on Saturday, December 11, 1999 at 04:36:10
town: Columbus Ohio
country: USA
comment: Our Affen in a word "entertaining". She is 3 - 4 years old and adds considerable life to the house. She is a barker, she hates trucks, buses, and loud cars. She likes car rides but loves to hunt. On a hike she will cover 3 times the distance with her nose to the ground. She plays hard and sleeps hard. When tied she can sleep in just about any position. She is black with a touch of gray in the and eye sometimes look black but are brown.
Two faults - 1. She hates trucks, 2. We just have the worse time clipping her nails. For a small dog she in so determined not to have the nails clipped.

There are many many more pluses - very sturdy, loving, observant, and alot of fun.

donielle &tim pressley (thepressleys@mindspring.com) on Saturday, December 11, 1999 at 02:32:11
town: roswell (atlanta)
country: usa
comment: we want to say what a joy it is to have "wally" around. wall is a approx. 8 lb black fire ball.....when my wife first told me she wanted to go see this little breed, well i want to say that i was at best- a little aprehensive. well, needless to say after seeing this 6 week old 1 lb baby, i was impressed. the breeders home is in conyers georgia at the home of (ruth ann taylor) WHAT A JOY IT WAS WORKING WITH RUTH ANN (SO MOTHERLY) wally has become the center of our 4 dog family. i act like a tough guy for the most part- and this guy has the tough guy attitude with sweet loving moments. he's perfect with exceptions of marking the corners of our home with his "sent". wally is full of energy and will play with anything from a water bottle cap to one of his 50 favorite squeek toys. he is a fetch monster! he is very competitive with our 100lb chocolate lab  

Bernadette Balletti (TFARR26038@AOL.COM) on Sunday, November 28, 1999 at 06:14:23
town: Enfield, CT 06082
country: USA
comment: Hi, Nancy......all I can say is WOW!!!  Loved your Affen stories, loved Xani..he is gorgeous!!!  A real beauty!!  I can't thank you enough for all the help you have been to me and I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate it.  Sincerely, Bernadette

Dennis (brickconnection@msn.com) on Sunday, November 14, 1999 at 03:51:08
town: Dallas
country: US
comment: Our Affenpincher is now 4 years old and I don't think any other breed of dog can give you any more satifaction. We love our "clyde".... :)

Jan Bjernler (bjernler@hem.passagen.se) on Sunday, October 3, 1999 at 19:59:01
town: Kalmar
country: Sweden
comment: I read your conclusion about the affenpincher, but I have to say that I disagree about the dog barking at visitors and not chewing things at home. I got my affenpincher (called Sebastian) early this summer (june 6th) and He is great. He almost never barks at anyone, I've heard him bark about 5 times in 4 months and that has been when he got scared of something. Otherwise he is silent and full of energy, playing with just about everything.
He likes to chew just about everything in the house like shoes, cables, my bookshelf, on the chairs in the kitchen, the kitchen table and so on. Hopefully he'll stop now when he has got all of his teeth.
Otherwise the Affenpincher is the perfect dog for someone who wants to have a big dog, but cannot find the time for it.
Jan Bjernler

jukka (jukkako@kolumbus.fi) on Monday, August 16, 1999 at 23:21:17
town: Helsinki
country: Finland
comment: Hello! Nice pictures with "apes"!

Anna_Dancho@Juno.com () on Monday, June 28, 1999 at 20:59:04
town: Columbus Ohio
country: USA
comment: I have volunteered at an animal shelter now for seven years. My recent adoption turned out to be an Affen! I am delighted with this little girl who is now about 3 to 4 years old. She is my fourth dog. I have had her about 4 months now and she is the boss of my other three. I just want to "stress" to people the pure breeds are in shelters ALL the time. This is my first experience with an Affen, they are truley "critter" getters. She enjoys chipmuck hunting, it keeps her busy. I am very new to this breed, actually i never heard of it till I took mine to the vet. I'm glad to read the stories and comments from other people with this dog.

longwayfarm@juno.com (cherie e le bouton) on Thursday, May 27, 1999 at 22:29:31
town: usa
country: chardon ohio
comment: enjoyed your stories and comments no end - have printed all i could -ran out of ink am also looking for a little male affen preferably one that needs a home i lost my little guy at age 19 and i am lost without him.

K. Clark (sprout@connected.bc.ca) on Tuesday, March 30, 1999 at 16:03:19
town: Canada
country: Campbell River,B.C.
comment: I'm having empty nest syndrome since my only daughter left home and have been thinking about getting a dog but I only want a toy size. Someone told me about the Affen and I am sold. We do alot of motorcycling and would like to bring our pet along. The Affen seems to be the sturdiest of all the toy breeds. The Affen seems to be built like my husband and myself. Short and barrell chested. Thank you for all the info about the Affen it has really helped.

Melinda Reid (pookie_f34@yahoo.com) on Sunday, March 28, 1999 at 15:13:14
town: sundance,wyo
country: usa
comment: I have a little affenpincher she is a delight even though she took over the house. She is a demanding little devil I must say but has so much love to give she will be two soon and I love her very much. She is just right for my little apartment. When my children come to visit I dont hardly see her she is with them enjoying all the love they give her.

Carolyne Allward-Chebsey (Carolyne@Lorahspaps,freeserve.co.uk) on Sunday, March 21, 1999 at 00:57:53
town: Lichfield
country: UK
comment: Lovely page. I have been corresponding (emails) with Nancy and she has let me see her delightful articles on affens. They sound a bit like my Paps! Your affens sound lovely.

Sarah Jirousek-Wint (sjirousekw@aol.com) on Wednesday, February 24, 1999 at 05:41:33
town: Beltsville, Maryland
country: U.S.A.
comment: Thanks for the wonderful pictures of your affens. I had never heard of the breed, until I found Ebony (my affen) in a dog pound in Nebraska. She is the smartest dog I have ever known and she believes her strength is that of a dog ten times her size. Thanks for the web site!!!

HELENE.NILSSON (vsd260x@tninet.se) on Saturday, January 2, 1999 at 10:49:12
town: ÅHUS
country: SWEDEN
comment: IT IS THE BEST FAMILY DOG IN THE WORLD

Kleeo (rlbblr@megalink.net) on Friday, November 27, 1998 at 01:08:56
town: Maine
country: USA
comment: Hi *******...I am so glad that I had the opportunity to talk with you and learn more about this exquisite breed of dogs! Xani stole my heart from the moment you sent me his picture! I wish you all of the luck in the world with him....little dogs make the world go round! *smile & hug!!*

Ruth and Dieter Hey (Pfefferhaeuschen@t-online.de) on Friday, November 13, 1998 at 16:42:47
town: Simmerath
country: Germany
comment: Thank you for the fine web site for Xanadu. We are the breeders and we are proud that you do so. Much greetings and best wishes for your own breed from germany.
Dieter and Ruth Hey

Vicki Peal (VickiP25@aol.com) on Sunday, November 8, 1998 at 00:50:38
town: Fort Lauderdale
country: US
comment: HI! My mom's name is Vicki and I am her pride and joy! My name is Ferguson! I am a three year old Affenpinscher. Don't let Mom know, but I run the household! I have trained Mom and Dad, and my human "brother and sister", Chris and Ashley, to spoil me!

I have heard Mom say that I came into the lives of this family at a time when humor and laughter was missing due to the loss of a family member. I know I'm a bit aloof sometimes, but I have learned how to make my human family smile a whole lot! I don't like to be petted a whole bunch, but want to be snuggled up to any one of them at all times!

I LOVE car rides, and can hear someone outside at a hundred paces. I alert my family and bark until the "stranger" leaves. I think I'm a pretty lucky little guy. I have taught the family to throw toys so I can bring them back, and to get on the floor with me more than they sit on chairs. I'm cut kind of shaggy, as a groomer told Mom that she would have to pluck my face to look "right". Mom said that no one was going to pluck me...so I get lots of brushings and cleanings! Yup! Lucky dog...lucky family! Be safe! Be well!
Bye,
"Fergie"

kati susi-wolff (kati.susi-wolff@hut.fi) on Thursday, November 5, 1998 at 11:08:53
town: helsinki
country: finland
comment: Hi, thanks for your informative homepage (with photos too), I haven´t found any literature about affens, so if anyone knows, let me know. Greetings from our affen, Max (6 months), with funny face and independent habits.

Rebecca Brandon (caninecu@alaska.net) on Tuesday, October 6, 1998 at 03:04:36
town: Anchorage, Alaska.
comment: Thank you for your informative web page on the Affenpinschers. I am a breeder and exhibitor here in the State of Alaska.

Becky Korek () on Monday, September 28, 1998 at 01:34:29
town: Goffstown
country: USA
comment: Hi! Finally had a chance to visit your web site. Hope all is well with the pups and tell them that I miss them! PS. When are you going to bring Minnie to visit me at the kennel?

Megan Marlatt (rrobinson@ns.gemlink.com) on Saturday, September 12, 1998 at 20:57:46
town: Orange, Virginia
country: U.S.A.
comment: Thank you so much for your very personable web page. I am in the process of trying to decide which toy breed to bring into my family, and your articles have helped me tremendously. I am now seriuosly considering an Affen; thanks to your writings and, (being an artist), Jan Van Eyck's painting, "Giovanni Arnolfini and His Bride".