The Affenpinscher American Bulldog Mix, is a mixed breed dog resulting from breeding the Affenpinscher and the American Bulldog. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Affenpinscher is known for being a very sweet little dog. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Affenpinscher or the American Bulldog? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Affenpinscher American Bulldog Mix.
While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Affenpinscher American Bulldog Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Affenpinscher American Bulldog Mix puppies for sale.
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All hybrid or designer dogs are tough to get a good read on as there isn’t much history to them. Breeding specific dogs like this has become common in the last twenty years or so even though I am sure that this mixed breed found it’s share of dogs to the shelter due to accidental breeding. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. These are places that mass produce puppies, specifically for profit and don’t care at all about the dogs. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills.
Affenpinscher History
The Affenpinscher, a small breed of dog looks like a terrier, even though it isn’t technically classified as one. However, it was bred to work like one. Her task was to exterminate rats and other vermin in German stables during the 17th century. Translated directly from German, the name Affenpinschermeans “monkey dog” or “ape terrier.” Over time, Affens were brought into the house to get rid of kitchen mice. Eventually they became dual-purpose dogs: they would help with the vermin during the day and would be companions during the day.
The Affen is believed to have influenced the development of later European breeds such as the Brussels Griffon and the Miniature Schnauzer. A couple of centuries after their initial breeding, groups devoted to the breed popped up around France and Germany in the late 19th century, the American Kennel Club officially recognized it in 1936 as an AKC registered breed. Since they are a charming little breed, they have done well as show dogs. Their grit, toughness, and tenacity that made them great little rat dogs hasn’t left the breed. One was witnessed chasing off a grizzly bear in Alaska! These started off as a larger breed and were then bred to be smaller, probably for the companionship aspect. The Affen is a rare breed, but won the Westminster Kennel Club Show in 2002 which boosted it’s popularity.
They are bold, creative, and entertaining his people. She is a quick learner and adjusts readily to change. She will make a good traveler and companion, however, owners warn that they are big dogs in a small body. This makes them good watchdogs. They take their guard dog duties seriously so need proper socialization.
American Bulldog History
The American Bulldog hails from the now extinct Old English Bulldog. They are strong, stocky, well built, and usually defined with a large head and a muscular build. The original intent of the bulldog was that they were bred to help butchers control livestock. It is a very old breed and by the 15th century, in addition to catching and herding horses, cattle, and boars in legitimate farming use. The very cruel and barbaric “sport” of bull-baiting was created. The intent of this was where dogs would latch onto a tethered bull’s nose and not let go until the dog had pulled the bull to the ground or the bull had killed the dog. If you can believe it, this lasted for a few centuries until this activity was banned in 1835. Being that this is such a violent activity, they were bred for aggression. After this ban, the more aggressive tendencies were not necessary and one might wonder why they would even stay a breed. Like a lot of dog breeds, they later became very good companion and protection dogs alongside their working routes. Like the Alaskan Malamute, the Akita, and other dog breeds they nearly became extinct after World War 2. Well, they are very faithful and loyal companions and are the official mascot for nearly 50 schools and five times as many secondary schools. They are also the unofficial mascot for the U.S. Marine Corps. They probably aren’t going anywhere.
Affenpinscher
Height: 9 - 11 inches
Weight: 7 - 10 pounds
Lifespan: 12 -15 years
American Bulldog
Height: 12 - 16 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 40-55 lb.
Lifespan: 8-10 years
The Affenpinscher and the American Bulldog might be a little bit spunky. They can be an inquisitive little fella so keep on the lookout for that behavior! All dogs need attention and don't want to be left alone. That's why you have a pet, right? Plan on putting forth effort to socialize her as this will reap dividends in the long run. Please use always use positive reinforcement even though they can have a mind of their own. Enjoy being with your new mixed breed and love the relationship you will have with them.
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. If they won’t do this, then look no more and don’t consider that breeder at all. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. We obviously recommend that you look for a reputable animal rescue in your area to find your new mixed breed. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.
The Affenpinscher mixed with the American Bulldog might be prone to joint dysplasia, eye problems, allergies, among others.
Note that these are just common problems in both breeds.
What are the grooming requirements?
Even if you know the breed, sometimes it is hard to tell if it will be a heavy shedder or a light shedder. Either way, Get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin.
What are the exercise requirements?
Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This mix will more than likely have a high energy level. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him.
What are the training requirements?
This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible.
"A lot of times diet is done on a per-dog basis. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U.S. are overweight. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background.
Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia.
I good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background."