Schipperke
Quick Summary
Intelligent, alert watchdogs ideal for active owners seeking a small but spirited companion. Best suited for those who can manage their independent nature and provide consistent training.
Contents
Weight Range
10-16 lbs
♂ Male: 10-16 lbs
♀ Female: 10-16 lbs
Height Range
25-33 inches
♂ Male: 11-13"
♀ Female: 11-13"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Belgian dockyard dogs from the 1600s, serving as boat guardians and rat catchers along Antwerp's canals
Popularity
#105
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 11"-13" |
| Female Height | 11"-13" |
| Male Weight | 10-16 lbs |
| Female Weight | 10-16 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-1500 for purchase, plus vaccination and spaying/neutering. Monthly expenses average $100-150 for food, treats, and basic care. Annual vet visits and potential health issues add to long-term costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and curious with a confident, sometimes stubborn personality. High energy levels require proper outlets. Generally good with family but can be reserved with strangers. Strong watchdog instincts lead to frequent barking.
Social Needs
Moderately social dogs requiring regular human interaction. Can be reserved with other dogs and needs early socialization. Tolerates alone time well if properly exercised and trained.
Breed Overview
Schipperkes are small, sturdy dogs with distinctive black coats and fox-like faces. Their well-muscled bodies support an alert, confident stance, while their thick double coat forms a characteristic ruff, cape, and culottes. Standing 11-13 inches tall, these agile dogs move with purpose and grace, displaying their heritage as both watchdogs and ratters through their keen expression and quick movements.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Compact size
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Long lifespan
Cons
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Barks frequently
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Independent nature
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Confident, Alert, Curious |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and agility activities. Moderate to high intensity level activities help channel their natural energy. Mental stimulation through training exercises is essential.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention to portion control needed to prevent weight gain. Small kibble size recommended for easier consumption.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose food appropriate for small breeds with high energy levels. Monitor weight closely as breed can be prone to obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal for small homes with secure yards. Tolerates various climates well but needs indoor access and protection from extreme weather.
Minimum space requirements are modest due to small size. Adapts well to apartment living but thrives with access to secure outdoor areas. Excellent adaptability to various living situations with proper exercise.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in Belgium's Flanders region during the 1600s, these small black dogs earned their reputation as excellent boat dogs and ratters. Their name 'Schipperke' means 'little captain' in Flemish, reflecting their maritime heritage.
Historical Purpose
Belgian dockyard dogs from the 1600s, serving as boat guardians and rat catchers along Antwerp's canals. Their name derives from 'schip,' meaning boat in Flemish.
Fun Fact
Often called 'little black devils' in Belgium due to their mischievous nature and all-black coat.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, daily exercise to prevent boredom, and early socialization to manage watchdog tendencies are essential.