AFFENPINSCHER BREED NOTES - 27th February 2008

Looking at the total registrations for the Toy Group, in 2007 Affenpinschers dropped from 16th position in 2006 to 20th place although there was only a difference of 10 between the two years. The latest figure of 118 puts Affenpinschers as the lowest CC breed with three rare breeds registering fewer dogs and another rare breed registering more.  Most of the twenty-three breeds in the Group had improved their annual totals in 2007;  there were four other breeds as well as the Affenpinscher who had a reduced annual total.

If the Kennel Club’s definition of a vulnerable breed is under 300 registrations a year, then the Affenpinscher, although not a native breed, is in danger.  Originally an imported breed and coming from a depleted world population, the American registrations are probably slightly greater than our own but elsewhere in Europe breeders are struggling to keep the numbers up.  Certainly show entries here are not reflected in the registration numbers;  compared to other breeds with similar registrations, we have a higher percentage of exhibitors.

There are two interesting pages that have been added recently to the Affenpinscher Club website – one for stud dogs and another for brood bitches. A fascinating read. Do have a look - www.affenpinscherclubuk.com

A reminder that if you want lunch at the AGM on Saturday 15th March it should be pre-booked with me by the weekend before.  If you do not use the booking form sent out with the last Monkey Business do remember to state if you require a vegetarian meal.  If you do not want lunch, refreshments only can be paid for on the day.

Subscriptions to the Affenpinscher Club should have been paid by now.  Also if you have a link from our website the annual link fee of £5 should be paid.  Any unpaid links will be removed after Crufts.

Subscriptions, web link fees and AGM lunch bookings should be sent to me as Secretary.

TONI TEASDALE