Schipperke

Dog Breed Profile

Home Dog Breeds Non-Sporting Schipperke

Schipperke History

The Schipperke is a toy-sized working Dutch herding and flocking dog. The Schipper is named after the city of Scheppen, in the Netherlands, where the type was originated. The Schipperke is a medium-sized, black or brown, short-coated, low-slung, chondrodysplastic (with flattened head), tenacious, hard-driving, and courageous little dog. The coat is smooth, straight, and dense, with feathers on the legs. The tail is carried in a slight curve over the back. The Schipper is a hardy, agile, sturdy, and compactly built little dog of moderate height, with a broad skull, muzzle, and ears, and of keen and alert expression. The legs are strong and straight, with well-arched toes. The feet are small, round, and catlike, with short, elastic, arched, and well-developed curly nails. The tail is set on high, strong and muscular, and is carried below the topline. The gait is free and shows plenty of drive. The temperament of the Schipper is easy-going, curious, loyal, and devoted to its family. The Schnauzer is an energetic, intelligent, and clever dog. The Schipper is a lively, brave, and fearless watchdog, and a brave and skillful hunter and excellent ratter.

Time of Origin

1600s

Country of Origin

Belgium

Ancestry

Unknown

Schipperke Physical Characteristics

The Schipperke is a small, medium-size breed of hound that is typically 15 to 17 inches at the withers and 25 to 35 pounds. They have a straight, thin, medium-length coat that is either brindle, gray, or rust colored. They have a pointed, fox-like face, a long tail, and erect ears. They are independent, friendly dogs that are typically protective.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 11 – 13 inches

Female Height Range: 10 – 12 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 12 – 16 lbs

Female Weight Range: 11 – 15 lbs

Schipperke Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

13-15 yrs

Schipperke Health Concerns

Usually A Very Healthy Breed, Entropion, Epilepsy, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Schipperke Temperament and Behaviour

The Schipperke is an energetic, curious, and fun-loving breed of small dog. They are highly intelligent and are easy to train, but they can also be stubborn and suspicious of new people. Because of this, they are not recommended for families with small children. Schipperkes can be persistent and brave, and will not hesitate to bark at a stranger. They are protective of their home and family, and make good watch dogs.

Schipperke Activity Requirements

The Schipperke is a medium-size dog that originated in the Netherlands. They are good-natured, cheerful, and outgoing. The Schipperke is an alert watchdog, but they are not typically aggressive. The Schipperke is an energetic dog that loves to play with others. They are happiest when they have another dog to play with. They love to chase and wrestle, although they can be a bit too rough at times. The Schipperke is a healthy, sturdy, and compact little dog. They are well suited to apartment living or for homes with small yards. While they do require regular exercise, they are not high-energy. If you are seeking an active, high-energy pet, the Schipperke may not be the right choice for you. This is a sweet, loving, and loyal companion, not a wild, crazy, running in circles kind of dog.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

0.8 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Schipperke is part of the Non-Sporting group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Schipperke is part of the Utility group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Schipperke is part of the Non-Sporting group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Schipperke is part of the Non-Sporting group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.