Affen Tzu Puppies for Sale
About the Affen Tzu
The Affen Tzu blends the Affenpinscher's monkey-faced mischief with the Shih Tzu's easygoing companionability, producing a small, sturdy lapdog with an outsized personality. Expect a wiry-to-silky coat, a slightly pushed-in muzzle, and a confident, sometimes stubborn attitude wrapped in a body that rarely tops 15 pounds. These dogs thrive on human closeness and adapt well to apartments, but their terrier-leaning heritage means they can be alert barkers and cheeky problem-solvers. Grooming is regular rather than heavy, and early socialization tempers the Affenpinscher's natural feistiness into an affectionate, entertaining housemate.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Where this breed shines
- Compact size well suited to apartment living
- Affectionate, people-oriented companion
- Modest exercise needs and adaptable routine
Things to consider
- Can be stubborn and slow to housetrain
- Alert barking needs early management
- Flat-faced Shih Tzu heritage may bring mild breathing sensitivity
History
The Affen Tzu is a modern companion cross developed in North America during the small-designer-dog wave of the 2000s. It combines the Affenpinscher, an old German ratting and companion breed, with the Shih Tzu, a Chinese palace lapdog. It is not recognized by major kennel clubs and remains a first-generation hybrid rather than an established breed.
Temperament
Affectionate, alert, and playfully stubborn, the Affen Tzu bonds tightly with its people and enjoys being the center of attention. It carries a terrier-like boldness balanced by the Shih Tzu's affectionate calm. Early training and socialization help curb watchdog barking and occasional willfulness.
Questions to ask a Affen Tzu breeder
- Are both parents health-tested for patellar and eye issues?
- What is the muzzle length and any breathing concerns in the line?
- How is the litter socialized before going home?
Health considerations to discuss
Patellar luxation. Common in small breeds; ask about knee evaluations.
Brachycephalic tendencies. Shorter muzzles from the Shih Tzu side can affect breathing and heat tolerance.
Dental crowding. Small jaws predispose to tartar; routine dental care matters.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC - Affenpinscher · AKC - Shih Tzu — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Affen Tzu litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Affen Tzu puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Affen Tzu listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Affen Tzu breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.