Country/Date of Origin: Germany/1600s
The Affenpinscher is an ancient breed, although its origins are not recorded. It was known in Germany in the seventeenth century and is thought to be the foundation breed for the more familiar Brussels Griffon and perhaps the Miniature Schnauzer as well. The American Kennel Club classifies the breed as a toy, but elsewhere it is considered a terrier. The original job of the little bristle faced imp was a traditional terrier task as stable rat catcher.