The Affen Tzu is an adorable hybrid dog that is a mix of the Affenpinscher and the Shih Tzu. This breed is small in size and is known for being a great pet and watchdog. Although it is a modern breed with limited information available, we do know that the Affen Tzu inherits intelligence, sociability, and loyalty from both parent breeds. Training may take some time and they will require regular grooming, but with proper socialization, patience, and dedication, these dogs can make excellent family companions.
Overall, the Affen Tzu is a cute and lovable dog that combines the best traits of the Affenpinscher and the Shih Tzu. While they may require some effort to train and maintain, they have the potential to be wonderful family pets with their intelligence, sociability, and loyalty.
Ahead, we look at Affen Tzu dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Affen Tzu, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Affen Tzus!
| Dog Breed | Affen Tzu |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 7-16 lbs (average) |
| Height | 7-11″ (average) |
| Location | Unknown |
| Ancestry | Affenpinscher, Shih Tzu |
| Date of Origin | After 17th Century |
| Group | Watchdog, Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 10-16 years |
| Price | $800 – $1200 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Affen Tzu is a newly developed breed that is a mix of the Affenpinscher and the Shih Tzu. The origins of this hybrid breed are not well-documented due to its recent creation. The Affenpinscher, an ancient breed, originated in Germany, but the exact year is unknown. Initially used for catching rats and as farm dogs, they eventually became popular as companion pets in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, Affenpinschers are still skilled at hunting rats and make loyal watchdogs.
On the other hand, the Shih Tzu, another breed used to create the Affen Tzu, can be traced back to dogs present in China during the 17th century. These dogs were highly valued by Chinese royalty and were not sold or exported until the 1930s. The Shih Tzu is believed to be one of the 14 oldest dog breeds. A male and female pair were brought from Peking to England in 1928 by the wife of the quartermaster general of the north China command. The Shih Tzu was officially recognized by the AKC in 1969, while the Affenpinscher had already been established in 1936.
🐕 Affen Tzu Appearance
These dogs are the offspring of an Affenpinscher and a Shih Tzu crossbreed, rather than being purebred animals. They have chests that are deep and broad, as well as square, short, and petite bodies that might be delicate. Round heads often have muzzles that finish abruptly and are short, like Shih Tzus, although occasionally the snout can be lengthy, like an Affenpinscher. Typically, the lower jaw will seem large and undershot, with lower teeth that line up under the nose that are straight and even. They typically have noses the same color as their lips, which are black. The eyes of this hybrid breed will be large, dark, and black in hue. They will be positioned forward and properly sized for the face. Either held straight, as in the case of the Affenpinscher, or floppy, as in the case of the Shih Tzu, are the silky ears. This breed has medium-to-long, smooth, silky hair that will be longer around the face.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Gray, Brown, Red, Brindle, White |
⚡ Fun Fact: Affen Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Affen Tzu
The temperament of the parent breeds is reflected in these hybrid dogs. They are renowned for being inquisitive, devoted, and courageous. They should be observed around new, larger canines since they will occasionally even try to defend themselves against larger dogs. They should be watched around youngsters since they are irritable and may lose their cool if someone approaches their belongings. They may also be territorial and possessive of their food and toys. But with the right socialization, this breed may get along nicely with kids and other animals. They are intelligent, but if you allow them, they’ll get stubborn. As a result, they can be challenging to teach, but with little perseverance, they can become adept at both obedience and trick training. Although utilizing potty pads and crates may speed up the process, potty training might take some time. To gain their respect, you must demonstrate to them that you are the pack leader and not the other way around. When the Affen Tzu does well, the owner should be strict while also rewarding them. They are loving and really close to their family.
🤝 Are Affen Tzus Friendly or Aggressive?
Affen Tzu dogs are generally amicable with other pets and have an average level of friendliness towards strangers. However, they may not be the most suitable choice for families with children, as they may require reconsideration due to their temperament. On the other hand, Affen Tzus are cat-friendly and get along well with other dogs, making them a good option for those looking to expand their furry family or participate in dog meetups. Nevertheless, Affen Tzus may not be the ideal breed for elderly individuals.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Curious
- Playful
- Adventurous
- Funny
- Loving
- Stubborn
- Happy
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Outgoing
- Lively
- Gentle
🐩 Affen Tzu Care & Maintenance
These dogs will require weekly brushing with a rubber bristles paddle brush in order to maintain their silky, smooth hair. You may or may not decide to trim your dog’s nails to facilitate grooming, depending on the breed. You should pay close attention to the ears of this hybrid breed since they are susceptible to infections. Regularly check them, and if you spot any strange behavior, take action. Every dog has to have their teeth washed at least once or twice a week, and their nails should be cut as needed. This could happen once or twice per month. Like the Affenpinscher and Shih Tzu, the hybrid Affen Tzu will have a high level of grooming upkeep.
Affen Tzu dogs are known for their low to no shedding. If you have a puppy from this breed, you can rest assured that your furniture and car will not be covered in dog hair. If you are someone who cannot tolerate dog hair, getting an Affen Tzu dog could be the perfect choice for you. These dogs only require bathing every 4-6 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 1 cups daily, costing you about $0.75 – $1.00 daily, or approximately $20.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Affen Tzu dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 6 miles per week, which equates to about 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Affen Tzu dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Affen Tzu Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Affen Tzu Dog Breed can be:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hyperthyroidism
While minor concerns include:
- Ear Infections
🤧 Important: Is Affen Tzu hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Affen Tzu.
⚡ Affen Tzu Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Affen Tzu a great choice for families with young children?
The Affen Tzu is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be affectionate and form strong bonds with their family members. They can do well with children if properly socialized and can be patient and gentle with them.
Is the Affen Tzu breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Affen Tzu breed is considered a suitable breed for apartment living. They are small in size and do not require a lot of space to roam. However, they will still need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
How much exercise does a Affen Tzu require compared to other breeds?
The Affen Tzu requires a moderate amount of exercise compared to other breeds. Daily walks and playtime should be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Is the Affen Tzu breed known for being good with other pets?
The Affen Tzu breed can be good with other pets if properly socialized. However, they can be territorial and protective of their possessions, so it is important to monitor their interactions with other animals.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Affen Tzu?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Affen Tzu include the Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and the Maltese. These breeds also have minimal shedding and grooming needs.
What are the common health issues that Affen Tzus are prone to?
Common health issues that Affen Tzus are prone to include patellar luxation, dental problems, respiratory issues, and eye diseases. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent and manage these potential health issues.
Are Affen Tzus known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Affen Tzus can be somewhat difficult to train compared to other breeds. While they are intelligent, they can also be stubborn. Consistent training methods, positive reinforcement, and persistence are key to successfully training an Affen Tzu.
Are Affen Tzus more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Affen Tzus can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized from a young age. They form strong bonds with their owners and can become anxious when left alone for long periods of time.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Affen Tzu that are suitable for people with allergies?
If someone has allergies, they may consider dog breeds similar to the Affen Tzu that are hypoallergenic, such as the Bichon Frise, Maltese, or Poodle. These breeds have hair instead of fur and produce less dander, making them more suitable for individuals with allergies.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Affen Tzu are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Since the Affen Tzu is a small breed, it is well-suited for individuals or families with limited space. Their small size allows them to be comfortable in apartments or small houses with limited outdoor areas.
Is the Affen Tzu breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Affen Tzu breed can be good with children with special needs, as long as they are properly socialized and trained. However, it is important to supervise interactions and teach both the dog and the child appropriate behavior and boundaries.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Affen Tzu?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Affen Tzu are moderate. They have a longer, silky coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and periodic trimming. They are considered a low to moderate shedding breed, so they will still shed some hair but not excessively. Regular grooming and maintenance are necessary to keep their coat healthy and clean.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Affen Tzu dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
