An Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix is also known as an Affenhuahua.
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix (Affenhuahua) Breed information
By Laura Ballarin
Last updated on January 17, 2023 | 10 min read
Affenhuahuas are a ton of fun! At anywhere from 8 to 11 pounds, and standing only 10-15 inches high, these extremely petite and sassy Chihuahua mixes have inherited the best traits from both their parents - the Chihuahua and the Affenpinscher.
Because of this adorable combination, you get a fearless watchdog that is full of energy and loves to play and cuddle. But don't forget that with those skills comes some barking, so if your apartment has thin walls, this pup may not be for you - unless you plan to keep their noisy tendencies in check!
Affenhuahua Quick Facts
Name
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix
Nickname
Affenhuahua
Breed group
Mixed breed
Height
10 to 15 inches
Weight
8 to 11 pounds
Lifespan
13 to 18 years
Colors
cream, brown, fawn, black
Suitable for
seniors, families with older children, apartment dwellers
Temperament
protective, intelligent, aloof, stubborn, loving
Shedding level
low
Barking level
high
Energy level
high
Affenhuahua Origins
The Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are a tiny but mighty breed of dogs originating in Mexico. They get their name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, while their popularity skyrocketed in the latter half of the 20th century thanks to pop culture mentions, with Taco Bell’s classic ‘Yo Quiero Taco Bell’ commercial being one of the most popular.
Chihuahuas are known for their trustworthiness and loyalty, never hesitating to alert you and your family if anything is amiss. With low to moderate energy levels, they make an ideal pet for small households or individuals living in urban areas with limited space.
The Affenpinscher
When it comes to mini-sized, character-filled dogs, you can't beat the lovable Affenpinscher. These loyal companions are furry bundles of energy, who have been around for centuries, bred initially as rat catchers in Germany and Belgium.
They maintain a stout build while standing at just 9-11.5 inches at the shoulder and range from 7-13 pounds. Their long, rough coat can range from light gray to jet black and sometimes possess a reddish tone on the face.
Affenpinschers enjoy a challenge and will keep you company for hours with their inquisitive nature.
The Affenhuahua
If you're looking for a compact pup with the spunk of an Affenpinscher and the cuddliness of a Chihuahua, then an Affenhuahua might be the perfect match.
These playful little dogs have been bred since the late '90s or early 2000s, likely in the United States. Breeders hoped to improve on both breeds by creating a sweet lapdog who would also alert their owners of potential danger.
As more people started to take interest in Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes, many ended up at shelters or under the care of rescue groups. So if you're interested in taking one home, there are plenty out there!
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes are not recognized by the A.K.C.
Affenhuahua Appearance
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes have a distinctive look. Though their main colors are black, brown, fawn, and cream, some special Affenhuahuas can even be found with white and grey spotting.
Their coats can vary from solid to splotched and give these pups the unique flair they’re known for.
Being a crossbreed between two small dogs, Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes will likely fall on the smaller side. They usually weigh in at 8-11 pounds and stand 10-15 inches tall from shoulder to paw, though some may be larger or smaller.
Affenhuahua Temperament
The Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix is a tiny ball of energy with a larger-than-life attitude that often steals the show.
Classified as sturdy dogs with a lot of spunk, they can be stubborn at times just like their Chihuahua parent but they are highly trainable with consistency.
Affenpinscher Chihuahua mixes need plenty of attention and affection. For the active, dedicated pet parent looking to keep Affenhuahua's barking habits in check, early training is recommended.
While they can be slightly tough-willed and difficult to potty train, these active balls of fur are actually very eager to please their owners; consistency in training will help them reach their full potential.
Affenhuahua and other pets
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes have a bit of a reputation when it comes to getting along with other pets. Generally speaking, they're not as fond of sharing their home with animals as other breeds are.
That said, they're much less likely to cause chaos if you know how to train, socialize, and exercise them properly. What's more, many owners find that their Affenhuahua is totally content having doggy siblings or feline friends.
In short—while it’s never guaranteed—there’s a real chance your Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix will get along perfectly well with your other pets!
Affenhuahua Shedding
Though the Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix is a designer breed, it's possible he'll inherit some hypoallergenic traits from his Affenpinscher parent that may limit the amount of shedding throughout the year.
That said, don't get your hopes too high as he's likely to inherit some typical Chihuahua fur characteristics too - and they're not known for being hypoallergenic. Still, if you're looking for a pup who won’t shed much or cause pet allergies, you could find yourself in luck with this mix.
Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mixes are not hypoallergenic.
Affenhuahua Health
Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mixes typically have a lifespan of between 13 and 18 years.
While the Affenhuahua may inherit some of their physical and behavioral traits from their parent breeds, they also inherit the same health issues.
Patellar Luxation
One of the most common afflictions with this breed is patellar luxation, also known as "slipped stifles". The condition occurs when the thighbone becomes dislodged from its position in the hip joint. Patellar luxation can take on different forms and various levels of severity, so it's important to monitor your Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mix closely.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a joint disorder that can cause significant pain and discomfort for your Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mix. Dogs of all sizes can be affected by this disorder, and it typically results from an abnormally forming joint with poor fit between the head of the femur and its socket in the pelvis. Since hip dysplasia is a genetically inherited condition, checking your pet's ancestry records can help to determine their risk.
Tracheal Collapse
Due to having a small trachea compared with other dog breeds, Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes can suffer from tracheal collapse. Living with this condition can significantly impact a pup's quality of life. Signs of tracheal collapse include frequent coughing, being gassy or gulping down air, having trouble breathing through their nose during exercise, and other signs of chest pain. If your Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mix closely is showing any of these symptoms then it's important for them to get checked out by their veterinarian.
Affenhuahua Care
When caring for a Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mix, you must consider grooming, exercising, training, and feeding.
Grooming
The Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix may appear high maintenance, but in reality, this small pup doesn't require too much upkeep. It really depends on the length of its fur – if it's a bit scruffy, you'll want to brush him every couple of days so his fur won't tangle. But if he sports a shorter coat, weekly brushing is enough to keep him looking dapper.
Training
Owning a Chihuahua Affenpinscher mix should begin with lots of socialization right away. You'll need to introduce the pup to his parents and littermates, as well as plenty of people and other animals so he can be comfortable around them.
Take him around various environments, such as parks or shopping centers, and expose him to different noises. All of this helps him develop into a confident adult.
Positive reinforcement will be key when training your Affenhuahua since they don't respond well to scolding or any kind of negative attention.
Feeding
Depending on their age, size, and energy levels, your Chihuahua Affenpinscher Mix should eat around 1 cup of food per day.
The ideal diet for an Affenpinscher Chihuahua mix should be formulated to meet the needs of a small breed with high energy.
With this pup, quality is far more important than quantity! Feed your Affenhuahua on a regular schedule and take care not to overfeed them or let food sit around all day, as these small dogs are especially prone to gaining weight.
Exercise
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes are known to have high energy levels. Because of this, it is important to give your Affenhuahua plenty of daily physical activity.
A good practice is to get your pup a nice, half-hour-to-hour-long walk per day, with some shorter walks and active play sessions sprinkled throughout the day.
Male vs Female Affenhuahua
Male Chihuahua Affenpinscher mixes tend to display an easy-going nature, allowing them to fit into most households easily. Females on the other hand are a bit more active, requiring regular attention to help them stay physically and mentally stimulated.
Is it the Affenhuahua right for you?
Not great with small kids
The Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix is a great pet for many households, particularly those with older children who know how to be gentle with small dogs.
These hybrid pups have are better suited for adults and older children, as they can easily become injured during rough-housing or other rowdy activities.
Great for apartment living
Affenpinscher Chihuahua mixes make great apartment dwellers, as they don't take a lot of space. These little cuties are happy to stay in small apartments if they receive an appropriate amount of exercise.
Right for you
You live in an apartment
You want a very small dog
You want a dog that doesn't shed a lot
Not right for you
You have little children
You don't want a yappy dog
You are not very active
Affenhuahua FAQs
What is an Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix called?
What does an Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix look like?
An Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix generally takes on the facial features and coat of an Affenpinscher, while retaining the body type and size of a Chihuahua. They usually have short, dense coats that come in a variety of colors.
How long do Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mixes live?
Affenpinscher Chihuahua Mix generally live between 13 and 18 years.