Schipperkes: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Schipperke breed

The Schipperke!

The Schipperke dog is small, with oval brown eyes, triangular upright ears and a face that resembles that of a fox. The body must appear to be square when viewed from the side while the chest must be wide and should reach the elbows. It also has a distinctive double coat – a soft undercoat covered by a rough, shaggy outer coat. A long ruff also surrounds the Schipperke’s neck, particularly the nape, the chest as well as the back of its hind legs.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
15+ years

Energy Level:
Very high.

Living Conditions:
Indoor/Apartment.

Barking:
Average.

Exercise Needs:
Daily 20 minute walk. Gets some exercise on its own.

Breed Group:
Non-Sporting

Size:
Small

Height:
10 to 13 inches

Weight:
12 to 18 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black for show dogs. Otherwise, tans and fawns are fine.

National breed club:
Schipperke Club of America

Schipperke Skills

The Schipperke breed was developed in Flanders by a canal boat captain named Renssens. While it was originally planned to be descended from the Black Belgian Sheepdog family, the Schipperke was made smaller and was made to be a totally different breed. It was named Schipperke, which translates to “Little Skipper” or “Little Captain” in Flemish, because it was the favorite choice to guard canal barges in Belgium. The Schipperke became even more popular when Queen Marie Henriette acquired a dog of the said breed. Now, the Schipperke is regarded as a companion dog and is often brought along on boating and fishing trips because of its alert nature. Schipperke are well known as vermin hunters and watchdogs.

Schipperke Personality

The Schipperke is a highly energetic dog that enjoys the companionship of other dogs, irregardless of size, and is curious about almost everything. The breed is very intelligent and independent, always in search of an adventure. It is also alert and is a perfect choice as a watchdog. It loves to howl and bark and is wary in the presence of strangers. In fact, the Schipperke is sometimes nicknamed “The Little Nurse” because it can be a quiet bedside companion to a sick family member.

Exercise Needs

Being an active and seemingly tireless dog, the Schipperke will love to run around the yard or better yet, in a park or open field.

Living Conditions

Because of its size, the Schipperke is ideal for people living in apartments with small yards. However, the yard must have fences, as these dogs are very quick and can easily escape or get lost.

Grooming Requirements

Being the independent dog that it is, the Schipperke can very well take care of its own grooming. The coat of the Schipperke must be brushed two to three times a week using a firm bristle brush to keep it in top condition. However, while they shed very little, Schipperkes experience periods of “blowing”, where they lose all their undercoat within a ten-day period. It is said that it is easier to bathe them during this time.

Health Issues

The Schipperke is prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia and hypothyroid. The breed is also said to be susceptible to a new disease called MPS 111B.

If you liked this dog…

You may also take a liking to the Shiba Inu. The breed, which can also be mistaken for a fox because of the color of its coat, is very alert and independent, perfect for families with small children. The Shiba Inu dog is also very gentle and affectionate and loves to be part of a family.

Shipperke Photos