Schipperke

Unique Origin

The Schipperke was developed in Flanders, Belgium, as a watchdog and is descended from the Leauvenaar, a 40-pound black sheepdog. They were eventually bred smaller and smaller and became a different breed altogether. These dogs were a favorite choice to guard boats. In Flemish, the word schip means boat, hence their name Schipperke. Their nicknames range from Little Captain, Little Skipper, Little Shepherd, and Little Boatman. They were also used to hunt vermin on the boats and were usually the captain’s dog. They first appeared in a dog show in 1880 and have since been exported throughout the world

Personality

Schipperkes make delightful family pets as they are joyful, enthusiastic, alert, active, and fearlessly devoted to their family. They are the proverbial big dog in a little dog’s body. They are selective in offering their friendship, generally giving their loyalty to their family, with whom they create strong bonds. They are famous for being devoted to children and are protective and fearless, sounding the alarm with strangers. Schipperkes are very active little dogs and do best with a family who is the same. They make excellent hiking, camping, and traveling companions, as they love to be on the go. When it comes to training, however, they can be a little stubborn. Schipperkes are known for their cleverness, versatility, and devotion, thus making them an ideal family dog.

Appearance

Schipperkes generally weigh between 12 to 18 pounds and stand approximately 10 to 13 inches tall. They are a small dog with a stocky build. Their coats are thick, rough, and come only in black.

Interesting Facts

Schipperkes are a long-lived dog and can live 15 or more years. They are considered light shedders except for twice a year, when they shed heavily. The Schipperke became a fashionable pet after Queen Marie Henriette saw one at a Brussels dog show. Their popularity has grown ever since