Schipperke

HISTORY

ORIGIN  BELGIUM

GROUP  NON SPORITING GROUP

The Schipperke originated in Belgium in the 16th century. They were bred to be guard and rat dogs on the canal barges. The Schipperke was originally a much larger sheep herding dog, and they were bred down in size to what we see today.

APPEARANCE(S)

Schipperkes are small dogs with a compact build. The head is small and triangle shape, many say they have a fox like face. The eyes are dark and round and the ears are erect. The chest is deep, and the tail is docked.

COLOR(S)

This breed is most commonly seen in black.

COAT

The outercoat is dense, coarse and straight. The undercoat is thick and much softer. The coat around the neck is heavier than any where else on the body.

PERSONALITY

ACTIVITY LEVEL

High

POSITIVES

Schipperkes are a fur ball of energy. They are very curious about what is going on, and they love to play. They are brave and like to bark at strangers.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

This breed can be a stubborn, and they do not like to share their toys or food with other dogs or children. They generally don’t do will with kids, unless they are socialized with them at a young age.

IDEAL LIVING SITUATION

This breed would do well in country or city.

HELPFUL INFORMATION/SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

This breed needs to be groomed on a regular basis. Socialization with children at a young age is recommended.

BREED RELATED HEALTH CONCERNS

The following conditions are known to be seen in this breed, please look at our A to Z listing to find out detailed information.

• Hypothyroidism

• Legg-Perthes Disease

NATIONAL CLUBS AND/OR ORGANIZATIONS

Schipperke Club of America
1 Cedar Creek Road
Shawnee, OK 74801

FUN FACT(S)

Schipperke means “little captain”.