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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Schipperke
The Schipperke is a small dog with a thick coat and a ruff around his neck. The
Schipperke is always black and is the only color accepted by the AKC. Abroad, colors
range from fawns to tans. The body is short and square. The topline is slightly
sloped. The chest is wide and should reach down to the elbows. The fox-shaped head
has a pointed muzzle. It has small oval eyes. The ears are erect and triangle-shaped.
The teeth should meet in a scissor-like bite. Dewclaws should be removed from all
legs if showing the dog. This breed is normally tail-less, but if born with a tail,
it is usually docked. A Schipperke who has a tail left intact has a beautiful plume
that curves up over its back. Proponents of the natural look feel that the tail
acts as a barometer of the dog's mood.
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Temperament
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The Schip is a sharp, perky and kind-natured dog. Though he can be hot-tempered
and high-spirited, they are confident and protective. They are wary of strangers
but are devoted to their families, especially the children. They will defend their
property from all intruders. They are good with other dogs and with cats. They can
be willful, but are easy to train. They like to bark and howl and can be difficult
to housebreak.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 10-13" ; Weight: 12-18 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, hypothyroid, slipping hip sockets,
and new to this breed, MPS 111B.
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Living Conditions
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The Schip can live fine in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They
are very quick and should have a fenced yard.
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Exercise
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This is an active and tireless breed. They should be allowed to run often. They
are very active indoors, but love the chance to run off their lead in a park or
yard.
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Life Expectancy
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15 or more years
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Grooming
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This breed takes good care of its own grooming needs. Brush or comb the double coat
regularly. Bathe only when necessary. They shed little or no hair until the coat
"blows" which is about 3 times a year.
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Origin
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These small watchdogs from the Belgian province of Flanders have been known for
many hundreds of years. Although there are those today who say the Schip is a miniature
version of the black Belgian Sheepdog, it is more probable that he evolved from
northern spitz dogs of early Viking days. Since the shepherd dogs trace their family
tree to the same stock, one could still claim an ancient relationship. Queen Marie
Henriette, wife of Belgian King Leopole II, saw a victorious Schipperke at a show
in 1885 and acquired it, thus beginning its rise to favor as a fashionable pet.
The Schipperke is recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Non-Sporting, UKC Companion Dog
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