The schipperke’s origin has been an elusive mystery. It is believed that the schipperke was developed by downsizing a leauvenaar, which was a black Belgian sheepdog. The result was a dedicated small watchdog that served on canal boats and in the shops of shoemakers and other tradesmen. The schipperke was introduced in the United States in 1888. The American Kennel Club recognized the schipperke in 1904 as a member of the non-sporting group.
The Schipperke has a fox-like appearance: Schipperkes are small, square proportioned and have long, fox-like muzzles. Their ears are erect and sit high atop their heads. This dog breed has bushy tails and their coats are thick and distinctively black. Their coats require a bit of attention. They need to be brushed several times a week and need to be bathed from time to time. Their ears should be checked regularly.
Personality
Schipperkes are alert, inquisitive, curious and have high energy. They make great family dogs and love children. They expect to be involved in everything their family does and want to contribute. They are very busy and need daily exercise in the form of walks or vigorous play. They may be hard to train because they have short attention spans and get bored easily. They also like to make noise. Even though they are friendly towards strangers and most dogs, they cannot be trusted around other pets.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Spitz |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Group: | Non-Sporting (Utility) |
| Life Span: | 13-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | Little captain |
Schipperke Build Information
The compact schipperke stands at an average height of 10 to 13 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 10 and 16 pounds. The coat is medium in length. Although black is the most common color and the only color permitted in the American Kennel Club show ring, schipperkes may also be tan or fawn. The ears are pointed and stand erect. Schipperkes are usually born without tails. In the event that a Schipperke is born with a tail, it is docked to the base to achieve a tailless appearance. The Schipperke has a fox-like appearance: Schipperkes are small, square proportioned and have long, fox-like muzzles. Their ears are erect and sit high atop their heads. This dog breed has bushy tails and their coats are thick and distinctively black. Their coats require a bit of attention. They need to be brushed several times a week and need to be bathed from time to time. Their ears should be checked regularly.
| Size: | Small |
| Length (Male): | 8-12 in. |
| Length (Female): | 10-12 in. |
| Weight: | < 14 lbs |
Behaviour and Personality
The schipperke is a lively, playful and spirited dog. It is intelligent, curious and mischievous, and it is known for inquisitively poking its nose into everything. They get along well with children, cats and other dogs. They can be aloof with strangers, and they are protective of their family members. They are independent, bold and confident. A schipperke must be provided with plenty of daily physical and mental stimulation to keep it out of trouble. Schipperkes are alert, inquisitive, curious and have high energy. They make great family dogs and love children. They expect to be involved in everything their family does and want to contribute. They are very busy and need daily exercise in the form of walks or vigorous play. They may be hard to train because they have short attention spans and get bored easily. They also like to make noise. Even though they are friendly towards strangers and most dogs, they cannot be trusted around other pets.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
A schipperke’s coat should be brushed once weekly to remove dead hairs and redistribute the natural oils of the skin and coat. This task may need to be performed more often during the shedding seasons. Brush the teeth every other day to reduce the risk for periodontal disease.
| Colors: | Black |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Schipperke Common Health Conditions
Schipperkes live average lifespans of 13 to 15 years. Some health conditions that have been noted in this breed include Legg Calve Perthes disease, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, mucopolysaccharidosis, progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts.
Schipperke Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
Resembling a little black fox, the schipperke makes a playful, alert and devoted addition to any family. The schipperke most likely originated in Belgium. The schipperke is also known as a little captain, which is the English translation from the Flemish name of schipperke. The schipperke is a lively and spirited dog that will serve as an effective watchdog and devoted family member. The schipperke stands 10 to 13 inches tall and weighs 10 to 16 pounds. The schipperke has a high energy level. The schipperke requires minimal grooming. The average lifespan for a schipperke is 13 to 15 years.
| Training: | Easy |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
