A beautiful mix of the Shih Tzu dog breed and the Affenpinscher dog breed, the Affen Tzus is a small ball of charm.
Having inherited both the looks and characteristic behaviors of both its parent breeds, the Affen Tzus are very sociable, highly intelligent, and have the power to charm you with their cuteness.
They are small dogs who are content with little exercise and therefore are quite suitable for apartment living.
They, however, possess a characteristic stubborn streak; and often like nipping at things. But with a good amount of training, these cheeky behavior patterns can be removed.
About The Breed
The Affen Tzu dog breeds are a small “designer” crossbreed of the Affenpinscher dog breed of Germany and the Shih Tzu dog breed of China.
They are cute and small and need constant care. These breeds tend to develop separation anxiety and, therefore, would do well with dog parents who are not busy, come home regularly, and give them love and care.
They are endearing in every sense of the word and are quite playful, following their humans around for attention.
They have a habit of nipping at and chasing things; and aren’t the most friendly with children.
Affen Tzu Dog Breed History
The Affen Tzu breed is relatively new to the world, and their history and ancestry can be better understood by looking at the ancestry of their delectable parent breeds.
The Affenpinscher and the Shih Tzu, despite having originated from two extremities of the globe, have many remarkable similarities.
The Shih Tzu, or “little lion,” is an ancient dog breed hailing from Tibet and is believed to have been gifted to the emperor of China by the Dalai Lama.
They have frequently appeared in many of the artwork and sculptures of the past, which highlights their popularity.
The first Shih Tzus were first brought to Europe only in the 1930s and since then have been a popular choice of many dog parents.
On the other hand, the Affenpinscher, or the ‘monkey dog,’ is one of the rarest dog breeds.
They were quite popular in German farms as rat hunters. The Affen Tzu retains both the regality and the curiosity of both its parents.
Affen Tzu Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Affen Tzu |
| Other Name | Affen Tzu |
| Dog Breed Type | Mixed/Crossbreed/Hybrid |
| Origin | China; Germany |
| Parent Breeds | Affenpinscher and Shih Tzu |
| Height | 8 – 12 inches |
| Weight | 10 – 14 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 11 – 15 years |
| Coat Type | Straight or slightly wavy; long |
| Common Colors | Black; Gray; Brown; Red; Brindle; White |
| Grooming Needs | Lots of grooming |
| Shedding | None to minimal shedding |
| Temperament | Active; playful; friendly |
| Apartment Living | Adapts well to apartment living |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Health Concerns | Cataract; Collapsed Trachea; Fractures; Heart Murmurs; Hip Dysplasia; Legg-perthes Disease; Luxating Patella; Open Fontanel; Patellar Luxation; Patent Ductus Arteriosus; Slipped Stifle; Allergies; Bladder Stones; Distichiasis; Dry Eye; Ear Infection |
| Overall Health | Healthy |
| Intelligence Level | Intelligent |
| Trainability | Easy to train |
| Energy Level | High |
| Activity | 35 minutes of daily exercise |
| Litter Size | 3 – 5 puppies |
What To Know
• Affen Tzus are ideal for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. Their adaptability makes them great pets for both city dwellers and those in more spacious settings.
• Be prepared for some grooming maintenance with the Affen Tzu, as their coat can vary from straight to wavy. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming will keep them looking their best.
• These pups are social and friendly, often enjoying the company of both their human families and other dogs. Socialization and positive interactions from a young age are key to a well-adjusted Affen Tzu.
• Their playful spirit knows no bounds, and their inquisitive nature means you’ll never have a dull moment with an Affen Tzu. Interactive toys and mentally stimulating activities will keep them happy and entertained.
Characteristics
Adaptability
? Affen Tzu dogs are renowned for their remarkable adaptability, making them the perfect companions for various lifestyles and living situations.
Their petite size and moderate exercise needs make them equally at home in apartments or houses with yards, and they thrive in both urban and suburban settings. ?
These charming little canines effortlessly adjust to their owners’ routines and personalities, forming deep bonds with their families.
Their adaptability extends to social interactions, as they enjoy the company of humans and other dogs, making them excellent playmates for children and furry friends alike. ?
With their flexible nature, Affen Tzus are a joy to have in any household, ensuring a harmonious and heartwarming experience for all. ??
Adaptability
Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Good For Novice Owners
Sensitivity Level
Tolerates Being Alone
Tolerates Cold Weather
Tolerates Hot Weather
Friendliness
The Affen Tzu, with its charming personality and warm heart, embodies friendliness to its core. ?
These small, lovable pups are social butterflies, eagerly extending their paws to both humans and other dogs.
Their affable nature makes them an ideal addition to any family or social circle, where they relish in companionship and affection.
Affen Tzus are known for their gentle and playful demeanor, turning strangers into friends with their wagging tails and endearing expressions.
With their cheerful disposition, they exude a welcoming and friendly aura, making them the perfect furry confidant to brighten your day. ?
All About Friendliness
Affectionate With Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog Friendly
Friendly Toward Strangers
Personality
The Affen Tzu are energetic and playful, brimming with affection. They are loyal and, despite their small figures, have big hearts.
They tend to give you back the affection that you give them. The Affen Tzu is not very athletic, and they only need a 30-minute walk and nothing exhausting.
They are big fans of a game of fetch and love to run about indoors. They tend to stick to your side, and it will do them good if you are a stay-at-home or work-from-home parent.
They are usually very friendly, even with strangers but aren’t quite comfortable with children.
But they do tend to get along with almost everyone without much issue. They need a lot of gentle handling.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
The Affen Tzu is a ? friendly and affectionate breed, making them great companions for children.
Their playful and gentle nature ensures they get along well with kids, often enjoying interactive games and companionship.
While they’re small, they possess a big heart and a patient disposition, making them a perfect addition to a family with youngsters.
Always supervise interactions to ensure a harmonious bond between your Affen Tzu and your little ones. ❤️?
Amicable to Other Pets
Affen Tzus ? are incredibly amicable to other pets, making them fantastic companions for multiple furry friends.
Their friendly and outgoing nature allows them to build strong bonds with other dogs and even cats.
They typically enjoy playdates, cohabiting peacefully, and are seldom aggressive. Socialization from a young age ensures they develop harmonious relationships with other animals.
With their sociable temperament, Affen Tzus creates a warm and inclusive pet environment, ?? fostering lasting friendships.
Barking Tendencies
Affen Tzus are generally known for their low barking tendencies, making them an excellent choice for quiet households or apartment living. ??
These little bundles of joy are not your typical yappy dogs and tend to bark infrequently.
However, they might vocalize when they sense something unusual, making them good watchdogs.
It’s essential to provide positive reinforcement and training to maintain their peaceful demeanor, ensuring a harmonious and quiet coexistence. ?✨
Possibilities of Staying Alone
Staying alone can be challenging for Affen Tzu dogs ??, as they thrive on companionship.
This breed adores being with their humans and may experience separation anxiety when left alone. However, with proper training and gradual acclimation to solitude, they can adapt.
Using interactive toys and creating a comforting environment can help them cope.
Ideally, Affen Tzus are happiest in homes where someone can keep them company for most of the day.
Pros And Cons Of The Affen Tzu Dog Breed
Pros
- Adorable, compact size.
- Playful and affectionate personality.
- Low grooming needs.
- Good with kids and families.
- Eager to learn tricks.
Cons
- Prone to separation anxiety.
- May bark excessively.
- Fragile due to small size.
- Can be stubborn in training.
- Potential health issues.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
The Affen Tzu does not show any particular difference based on their genders; even their bodily difference is not visible there because, male or female, they are short and fragile and in every bit adorable.
Appearance
General Appearance
This small breed typically stands around 8 to 11 inches tall and weighs 7 to 12 pounds. Their expressive faces boast bright, round eyes, and a short, snub nose.
Affen Tzus have soft, wavy straight coats that come in various colors, often with a black mask that adds character.
Their ears are floppy, and their tails may be curved over the back. These endearing pups sport a distinctive look that combines elegance with a touch of mischief, making them irresistible companions. ?❤️
Coat Color
Like both their parent breeds, the Affen Tzu is also a high-maintenance breed that will require lots and lots of grooming.
Coming in black, gray, brown, red, brindle, and white colors, these tiny beings have thick wavy manes, the softness of which is not an easy task to maintain.
The Affen Tzu tend to have long hair that falls into their eyes, and it is better if this is clipped and shortened from time to time.
Monthly visits to a professional groomer are a necessity to keep their manes and nails healthy.
Their nails, especially if not clipped and shortened regularly, will get infected easily. If you are not up to pampering them, you might as well give up on adopting them.
Shedding
The Affen Tzu dogs are not hypoallergenic like their Affenpinscher parents, but their shedding rates are relatively low.
They have thick and wavy hair, which needs to be taken care of regularly to maintain them in their natural glory.
If your Affen Tzu has longer hair, it will be good if you brush through it twice or more a week; if they are close cut and short, brushing twice a week would be enough.
Size
The Affen Tzu is a hybrid result of crossbreeding the Affenpinscher with the Shih Tzu. Small, square-shaped, and short, these stand at a height between 8 and 12 inches, weighing no more than 14 lbs.
They are delicate beings with deep, broad chests and round faces. Their muzzles are short like that of the Shih Tzu, but there are Affen Tzus that inherit their other parent’s long muzzles too.
Their even lower teeth line up under their nose, making their lower jaws appear broad. The lips match their nose in color, generally black.
The Affen Tzu has large round eyes that fall in proportion with their face and are set slightly forward.
Ears might be either upright or floppy, taking after either the Affenpinscher or the Shih Tzu.
Their manes are medium to long and soft to the touch, and the hair around the face can be a bit longer than the rest.
Vital Statistics
| DOG BREED GROUP | MIXED BREED DOGS |
| HEIGHT | 8 – 12 INCHES |
| WEIGHT | 10 – 14 lbs |
| LIFE SPAN | 10 – 15 YEARS |
Health
With a life expectancy of up to 15 years, Affen Tzu is a healthy breed despite their fragile disposition.
There are some health conditions you should be on the lookout for if you have an Affen Tzu in your care, like Cataracts; Collapsed Trachea; Fractures; Heart Murmurs; Hip Dysplasia; Legg-Perthes Disease; Luxating Patella; Open Fontanel; Patellar Luxation; Patent Ductus arteriosus; Slipped Stifle; Allergies; Bladder Stones; Distichiasis; Dry Eye; Ear Infection which are some of the diseases that are common in these breed types.
Health And Grooming Requirements
Amount Of Shedding
Drooling Potential
Easy To Groom
General Health
Potential For Weight Gain
Size
Maintenance And Care
For a hybrid prone to ear infections, it is very important to include ear checkups in the list of priorities when it comes to caring for your Affen Tzu.
Their soft-looking manes are easy to tangle and would need regular brushing every week with a soft, bristled, padded brush.
If their hair grows too long, it would be better to clip them. This ensures that their vision remains clear.
Always be on the lookout for any abnormal behavior in your Affen Tzu because they are not very vocal enough to whine if something is wrong.
Brush their teeth at least once a month, or better yet, twice a month. Trimm their nails regularly.
Grooming
Grooming an Affen Tzu ? can be a fun and rewarding part of pet ownership! Their coat varies from straight to wavy, so regular brushing is essential to prevent matting.
Start grooming routines early to get your furry friend used to the process. Professional grooming visits can help keep their coat tidy. ?
Bathe them as needed, typically every 6-8 weeks, but not too frequently to avoid drying out their skin.
Don’t forget to check their ears and trim their nails regularly. Grooming not only keeps them looking great but also strengthens the bond between you and your lovable Affen Tzu. ?
Food And Nutrition
Keep their size as a sort of guideline when feeding your Affen Tzu. The Affen Tzu do not require much food, but if they have inherited the insatiable hunger of their Shih Tzu parents, they will try to manipulate you into feeding them more.
Do not let them convince you into it, because once you start free feeding your Affen Tzu, they will make a habit of it and end up being obese and unhealthy.
A maximum of three meals can keep them going; if your dog is active, this will ensure that they don’t get low on sugar.
Their food should contain all the nutrients that are necessary for a dog of that stature, and it is recommended that you feed them high-quality kibble. Keep your Affen Tzu hydrated.
Food Cost
For your dog, 2-3 cups of dog food is recommended daily. Just divide them into 2-3 meals.
Don’t make your dogs overeat. The average daily cost would be around $1.1-$1.5. The monthly costs come to be around $33-$50.
Exercise And Activity Level
At least 30 minutes of walking regularly are required when it comes to the Affen Tzu breed.
Even if they are not the most athletic group of dogs, they do need some kind of exercise to not risk obesity.
The Affen Tzus are also very sociable dogs, and it would do them good if you take them on regular trips to the dog park, where they can mingle with other dogs.
Games of fetch will become a regular part of your schedule if you take in an Affen Tzu into your family.
Physical Requirements
Energy Level
Intensity
Exercise Needs
Potential for Playfulness
Trainability
These pint-sized pups are clever and eager learners, which makes them quick to pick up tricks and basic commands.
However, their mischievous streak can lead to occasional stubbornness or selective hearing.
To achieve the best results, use positive reinforcement techniques, treats, and short, engaging training sessions.
Affen Tzus thrive on consistency and patience, so keep it fun and watch them flourish.
Their unique blend of curiosity and independence means every training experience is an adventure with these lovable little companions. ??
Trainability
Easy To Train
Intelligence
Potential For Mouthiness
Prey Drive
Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Wanderlust Potential
Conclusion
Affen Tzus have a royal heritage from their parent breed Shih Tzu, a royal dog. The Shih Tzu is believed to have been a gift to the Emperor of China from the Dalai Lama. They are also a constant in many ancient paintings and sculptures. The Affen Tzus are, therefore, part royal.
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FAQs On Affen Tzu Dog Breed…
What kind of dog is the Affen Tzu dog?
A hybrid mix of the Affenpinscher and the Shih Tzu dog breeds, the Affen Tzu is small and playful, and they make good family pets as well as watchdogs.
Are the Affen Tzu dogs good family dogs?
The Affen Tzus make an excellent family dog, with their adorable looks and loving nature set to steal your heart.
Does Affen Tzu require rigorous exercise?
The Affen Tzu is a small dog that is not made for high levels of activity. A run around the yard or a park lasting not more than 30 minutes would be enough.
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.