Interview with Pamela Peat, Breeder of Pramada Naughty Affenpinschers
Pamela Peat: I live in Scottsdale, Arizona. I am currently retired and am only doing dogs, judging and relaxing. I was an OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner specializing in fertility and Assisted reproductive medicine (IVF).
Your opinion of the current quality of purebred dogs in general and your breed in particular?
Pamela Peat: I think the quality of purebred dogs is very mixed. Some breeds are very strong in all areas, class animals, specials and performance areas. Other breeds seem to be suffering and I find almost no class animals being shown and many are of lesser quality than in the past.
However, Affenpinschers are stronger than ever. They are increasing slightly in numbers, especially in some parts of the US and the world. Their delightful personalities and ability to adapt to many environments and living situations make them marvelous companions. Breeders are working very hard to improve health and socialize them. I find people have discovered the secret of this marvelous little Toy dog with a big attitude.
The biggest concern you have about your breed, be it medical, structural or temperament-wise?
Pamela Peat: With the Affenpinschers increasing popularity, I fear they will be over produced without working to maintain the progress we have made in attitude and structure. I would hate to see them increase in size, lose their correct coat that needs little care and become a bigger, handlers’ caricature of the little monkey-like Toy Terrier.
The biggest problem facing you as a breeder?
Pamela Peat: I find it difficult to have the appropriate amount of time to devote to raising a litter; the constant attention for the early weeks and then the time needed for coat care, preparation and socialization. To properly raise a litter, you have to be home for at least the first four weeks.
Advice to a new breeder? Advice to a new judge of your breed?
Pamela Peat: Advice to a new breeder: listen to many different opinions and advise.
Advice to a new judge of your breed: Find good mentors, read and get your hands on as many Affenpinschers as you are able to. Ask questions, listen to mentors and apply basic dog knowledge and anatomy, but remember the distinct qualities that make an Affenpinscher so unique from other dogs and Toys.
Anything else you’d like to share—something you’ve learned as a breeder, exhibitor or judge or a particular point you’d like to make?
And for a bit of humor, what’s the funniest thing that you ever experienced at a dog show?
Pamela Peat: I was judging Ibizan Hounds and had a wire-haired one to examine. When I said I loved whiskers and, in fact, raised Affenpinschers and my husband has a beard, the handler said with a straight face, “Do you strip ‘em?” I burst out laughing and she slapped her hand over her mouth and said, “Oh that wasn’t a good thing to say.” My answer was, “The Affenpinschers, yes.”
Are you looking for an Affenpinscher puppy?
The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder? Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.
Want to help rescue and re-home an Affenpinscher dog?
Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.
I live in Scottsdale, Arizona. I am currently retired and am only doing dogs, judging and relaxing. I was an OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner specializing in fertility and Assisted reproductive medicine (IVF).
Show Comments (0)