 |
Affen Spaniel |
|
He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Germany <> Great Britain -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
Affen Cocker |
A brief presentation of the Affen Spaniel |
| The Affen Spaniel is a small-to-medium-sized hybrid dog breed derived from a cross between the Affenpinscher and the English Cocker Spaniel. As this breed is rare and relatively new, little is known about its history and period of origin. However, we can estimate that it appeared around 2000. This dog can measure between 25 and 51 centimetres and weigh around 7 to 9 kilos. The Affen Spaniel may be considered a companion dog, but it can show exceptional aptitudes in the agility and sport groups. This is because its parent breeds, the English Cocker Spaniel and the Affenpinscher, have both served as sporting and hunting dogs. |
History of the Affen Spaniel |
| As the Affen Spaniel is a new hybrid breed that has only recently appeared on the scene, little is known about its history. Today, the American Kennel Club recognizes both the Affenpinscher and the English Cocker Spaniel, while the Affen Spaniel is currently recognized only by the Dog Registry of America. |
A little of the Affenpinscher |
||
| The Affenpinscher originated in Germany in the 1600s. The Affenpinscher was originally a medium-sized farm or store dog, used to hunt mice and rats. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Affenpinschers were bred to be much smaller and became companion dogs. The breeds thought to have been used to develop the smaller Affenpinscher were the Pug, the smooth-coated German Pinscher and a silky Pinscher. The Affenpinscher was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936. The Affenpinscher is said to have contributed to the development of the Miniature Schnauzer and the Brussels Griffon. Affenpinschers almost disappeared during the Second World War. At the end of the war, breeders crossed the last Affenpinschers with the Griffon Bruxellois, creating the breed's unique face structure. | ||
 |
||
| Standard of the Affenpinscher | ||
A little of the English Cocker Spaniel |
||
| The Spaniel breed is thought to have originated in Spain in the 1300's and 1400's. However, during the reign of Caesar around 54-55 BC, Spaniels began to descend on England. Spaniels were originally hunting and water dogs, but their breed eventually gave rise to a smaller breed, the English Cocker Spaniel. | ||
 |
||
| Standard of the English Cocker Spaniel |
Appearance of the Affen Spaniel |
| Affen Spaniels are small to medium-sized dogs. Neither as large as an English Cocker Spaniel nor as small as an Affenpinscher, they are about average in size, ranging from 25 to 51 centimeters. The Affen Spaniel has a short, set-back muzzle, large round eyes and ears that are often dark brown. The Affen Spaniel can appear heavier, and as such is considered a sturdy, well-built dog with short legs and a medium-width body. Its coat can be curly and silky, and of medium length, it is generally not as coarse as that of the Affenpinscher. In the Affen Spaniel, the ears tend to be folded back and pendulous. Because of this characteristic, dirt can lodge quite easily in the ear canal, and owners need to ensure regular ear hygiene. |
Temperament of the Affen Spaniel |
| The Affen Spaniel is reputed to be a very family-oriented dog that bonds very well with its owners. Consequently, it is not recommended to place these dogs because of the close bonds they form with their owners. Affen Spaniel are protective by nature, and often bark when they meet strangers. They are generally alert, gentle dogs that are well suited to a family home. However, as with all dogs, it is important to exercise caution with young children. |
Needs and activities of the Affen Spaniel |
| The Affen Spaniel tends to enjoy activities such as walking, running, swimming and racing. As these dogs are descended from the Spaniels breed, which are described as water-lovers, you may notice this trait in your Affen Spaniel. The Affenpinscher parent will pass on the love of digging and finding prey. It's a good idea to keep an eye on your Affen Spaniel at all times when it's outdoors, even if the yard appears to be well fenced. An escape is imminent if something exciting is seen on the other side of the fence. Affen Spaniels can be lively, energetic dogs and are considered herding dogs. It's therefore important to cater to the needs of these dogs by giving them plenty of exercise to avoid obesity and boredom. |
Maintenance of the Affen Spaniel |
| Affen Spaniels require relatively extensive grooming. Due to the average length and density of their coats, owners are strongly advised to brush their Affen Spaniels with a stiff bristle brush at least once a day to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. Affen Spaniels need to visit a groomer about every 4 to 5 weeks to have their fur trimmed around the pads and ears. As with all dogs, regular ear cleaning, teeth cleaning and nail trimming are essential. Particular attention should be paid to the ears, as their sideways position can encourage the accumulation of bacteria. Bathing should be kept to a minimum to avoid loss of the coat's natural oils. |
English (United Kingdom) 
Comments