While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Affenpinschers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Miniature American Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Active
Curious
Playful
Adventurous
Funny
Loving
Stubborn

Devoted
Intelligent
Energetic
Loyal

Affenpinschers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Miniature American Shepherds are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Choose an Affenpinscher if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Miniature American Shepherds are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Germany

United States

Brussels Griffon, Miniature Schnauzer

Basque Shepherd, Australian Shepherd

1600s

1960s

Toy (AKC:1936)
Companion Dog (UKC)

Herding (AKC & UKC)

An Affenpinscher can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Miniature American Shepherd can have a litter of 13-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Affenpinschers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Miniature American Shepherds may have difficulty adjusting to changes in lifestyle and living environments, preferring consistency.

While the Affenpinscher breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Miniature American Shepherds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Lick Granuloma

Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems
Von Willebrand's Disease

Cataracts
Tracheal Collapse
Heart Problems

Deafness
Eyelid Defects
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Knee
Hip X-Rays
Eyes
Skeletal

Eye
Hip
Hearing
Skeletal
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Skin Evaluation

Affenpinschers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Miniature American Shepherds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Affenpinscher has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Miniature American Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Affenpinschers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Miniature American Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Affenpinscher minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Miniature American Shepherd has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Affenpinscher dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

While Miniature American Shepherd dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Walk, Play, Chase, Catch treats, Dog Parks, Scenting, Marking

Swimming, Tug-of-war, Car-rides, Boating, Fetch, Chase, Walk, Run, Walking, Playing, Barking, Running, Frisbee, Herding, Dog Parks, Smelling Fauna

Affenpinschers have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

The Miniature American Shepherd has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Affenpinscher is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Miniature American Shepherds are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Affenpinschers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affenpinschers make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Miniature American Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Affenpinschers are not suitable for children.

Miniature American Shepherds are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Affenpinschers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Miniature American Shepherds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Affenpinschers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Miniature American Shepherds are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Affenpinschers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

The Miniature American Shepherd is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.