Appearance of the Affenchon
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| The Affenchon is a hybrid between the Bichon Frise and the Affenpinscher. Your dog will develop characteristics of both breeds. The Bichon Frise is a small dog with a curly, white coat and dark eyes and nose. Their height varies from 23 to 28 centimeters, and a healthy dog of this breed weighs between 3 and 5.5 kilos. The Affenpinscher, another small dog, averages 25 to 30 centimeters in height and, as an adult, weighs no more than 4 to 6 kilos. Its coat is described as shaggier and rougher. Although the exact appearance of the Affenchon is difficult to determine, as we can never be certain which parent breed a puppy will most closely resemble, we do know that its appearance will fall somewhere in between, with the possibility of a curly, harsh coat. Affenchons are typically feisty with a bright-eyed expression. |
Temperament of the Affenchon
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| These unique hybrid dogs are always happy, but can be hyperactive. Like all dogs joining your family, the Affenchon needs basic obedience training. Commands like sit, stay and come will help you keep your dog under control, even when excited. These dogs are known to be very noisy and like to bark, so a silent command may also prove useful. The Affenpinscher is known to be wary of strangers and is a breed that will certainly need a lot of socialization as a puppy. It will also do well with pets, but not so much with young children. He can be stubborn and will take advantage of what he can get. That's why he needs kind but firm owners who can be confident leaders. The Bichon Frise is a friendly dog who loves spending time with his family, but he is known to be shy and can develop separation anxiety, and will need lots of socialization. These dogs bark a lot and can be difficult to house-train. However, with patience and perseverance, both breeds can be trained to become obedient and respectful pets. As the Affenchon is a combination of the Affenpinscher and the Bichon Frise, its temperament will be similar to that of these breeds. |
Needs and activities of the Affenchon
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| The Affenpinscher and Bichon Frise are hyperactive toy breeds. Without proper training, they can become almost unbearable to live with. As part of their training, you should allow at least 45 minutes a day of physical exercise and at least 30 minutes a day of mental exercise. You can combine physical and mental exercise by hiding toys or using interactive toys that make him think and move. If he doesn't get enough exercise, your dog can easily become a nuisance to your family and neighbors. If you go to dog parks for exercise, make sure he knows good manners and the rules of sociability so he doesn't get into trouble with a bigger dog. |
Maintenance of the Affenchon
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| All dogs, whatever their breed, will need dental care. In general, small breeds like the Affenchon are more prone to gum disease. Get into the habit of brushing your dog's teeth every day, or at least once or twice a week. Nails should also be trimmed as often as necessary, i.e. once or twice a month, or less frequently if they wear down naturally. Although this breed is considered hypoallergenic and sheds very little, it still needs to be brushed regularly. If your Affenchon's coat is similar to that of the Affenpinscher, it may need clipping or trimming a few times a year. The curly coat of the Bichon Frise also needs frequent trimming, and an Affenchon with more curls will benefit from daily grooming. Be patient, gently separating matted areas of fur with your fingers before trying the comb and brush. Your Affenchon will cooperate better if the grooming session is a pleasant experience. Some owners prefer to have a groomer shampoo and trim their Affenchon every four to six weeks or so, which can include trimming, nail care and ear cleaning. |
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