What are the Best Dog Foods for Affenpinschers?
As one of the smallest and most active dog breeds, Affenpinschers have very specific nutritional needs that need to be considered when selecting the right dog food for your precious pup. Luckily, these spunky little lap dogs can live a long and healthy life with proper feeding and care!
AKC Classification: Toy
Exercise Required: 30 minutes/day
Ideal Weight
Healthy Adult Weight: 7-10 lbs
Breed Summary
One of the oldest toy breeds, the Affenpinscher, originated in 17th century Germany. Not surprisingly, the name Affenpinscher translates to “monkey-like terrier.” Despite their shaggy, dense, but neat, coat, these wiry-haired pups do not shed very much, but do require every other day brushings. While they are considered a moderately active breed, their small size makes them ideal for apartment living with lots of indoor exercise and the occasional walk. These spunky little pooches will provide your family with plenty of amusing antics and affectionate snuggles. Their energetic and playful personality makes them perfect for families with kids. It is encouraged to seek professional training, as these small dogs can be quite willful and independent. However, they are eager to please and very intelligent. There is never a dull moment with an Affenpinscher around!
Physical Traits
Small body, mustache, shaggy coat
Personality Traits
Loving, loyal & friendly
Health Considerations for Affenpinschers
Standing just 9-11.5 inches tall, these little pups are prone to the same eye, heart, teeth, thyroid, and joint issues common in the toy group. Due to their short noses, they are also highly suspectable to breathing problems and exercise intolerance in hot weather. However, with a proper diet Affenpinschers can live a long and healthy life. In fact, like many small dogs, they have an average lifespan of 12-15 years. While their sturdy build makes them not quite as delicate as other toy breeds, it is still important that their diet includes plenty of nutrients to keep their bones, muscles, and joints strong. In addition, these lively dogs need lots of activity and a moderate caloric intake, but treats should be limited as these small dogs can be prone to obesity.
Respiratory Issues & Weight Management
Due to the anatomy of their face and snout, Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome is a common concern with Affenpinschers. Surgery is the vet-preferred treatment for this condition, but the following dog food attributes and supplements can be helpful with breathing issues, especially if obesity is a factor:
Joint & Hip Issues
Affenpinschers are at risk for a variety of joint problems common in smaller dogs including Fractures, Luxating Patella, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease and Hip Dysplasia. A diet high in these nutrients can help:
Heart Conditions
Affenpinschers can develop serious heart issues such as Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Mitral Valve Disease, so it is ideal for their food to contain nutrients like:
Complete a nutritional assessment to view individualized diet recommendations specifically for your pet.
Foods We Recommend: Affenpinscher Puppies
How long do Affenpinschers need puppy food?
12 months old
During their time as puppies, small dog breeds like the Affenpinscher require superior nutrition to facilitate proper growth. As a moderately active dog breed, it is also important to ensure that your Affenpinscher puppy gets the appropriate amoutn of calories in their food – like in the formulas below.
Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Puppy Dry Dog Food
Small Breed Complete Health Puppy Turkey, Oatmeal & Salmon Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food
Pro Plan Dry Puppy Food
Puppy Small Paws Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
Foods We Recommend: Affenpinscher Adults
When do Affenpinschers become adults?
12 months old
A balanced diet is key to keeping your beloved pet happy, healthy and active. Adult Affenpinschers will benefit from a high-quality, moderate calorie dog food like these products below.
Chicken & Brown Rice Toy Breed Adult Dog Food
Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Fresh, Personalized Ingredient Meal Plan
+ Custom, human-grade diet
+ More expensive than kibble
Foods We Recommend: Affenpinscher Seniors
When do Affenpinschers become seniors?
7-10 years old
Most dog breeds begin to “slow down” as they move into their senior years, and the spunky Affenpinscher is no exception. However, your senior dog still requires adequate caloric and nutritional support to minimize the development of diseases common with aging. Some of our top picks include:
Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Small Breed Senior Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato
Bright Mind Adult 7+ Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Freestyle Senior Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food