Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Schipperke is a small but highly energetic and intelligent breed originating from Belgium. Often called the “Little Black Devil” due to its mischievous nature and boundless energy, the Schipperke is a curious, alert, and independent dog. Originally bred as a rat hunter and watchdog on boats and farms, this breed is known for its fox-like face, pricked ears, and thick double coat. Despite its small size, the Schipperke has a bold personality and is always ready for adventure.
This breed thrives in active households that can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Schipperkes are loyal and protective, making them excellent watchdogs, though their strong-willed nature means they require firm, consistent training.
Temperament
The Schipperke is a highly intelligent and confident breed with a strong sense of independence. It is loyal to its family but can be wary of strangers, making it a good watchdog. Despite its small size, the Schipperke has a big personality—curious, energetic, and sometimes even a little stubborn.
This breed is known for being:
- Playful and mischievous, always ready to explore and investigate.
- Protective of its home and family, often acting like a little guard dog.
- Independent-minded, which can make training a challenge for first-time dog owners.
- Affectionate with family, though it may not always be the most cuddly breed.
Schipperkes are highly vocal and will bark at anything they find suspicious. Early socialization is essential to ensure they do not become overly territorial or aggressive toward strangers or other animals.
Activity Level
The Schipperke is an extremely energetic and active breed that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. Despite their small size, they have endless stamina and love to run, play, and explore.
To keep a Schipperke happy and well-behaved, owners should provide:
- Daily long walks or jogs to burn off energy.
- Off-leash playtime in a secure area (Schipperkes are known escape artists).
- Interactive toys and puzzle games to challenge their intelligent minds.
- Dog sports like agility, obedience, or flyball to satisfy their need for mental and physical activity.
Without enough exercise, Schipperkes can become destructive or develop behavioral problems, such as excessive barking or digging. They are best suited for active individuals or families who can keep up with their lively personality.
Coat Care
The Schipperke has a dense double coat that is relatively easy to maintain. The coat is naturally waterproof and helps protect the dog from various weather conditions.
- Brushing: Needs brushing once or twice a week to remove loose hair and keep the coat looking neat.
- Shedding: Moderate year-round shedding, with heavier shedding periods twice a year (spring and fall).
- Bathing: Only needed occasionally, as their coat naturally repels dirt.
- Trimming: Not necessary—this breed’s coat is best left natural.
During seasonal shedding, daily brushing can help manage the increased hair loss. Despite its thick coat, the Schipperke is not hypoallergenic and may not be suitable for allergy sufferers.
Training
The Schipperke is highly intelligent, but its independent and strong-willed nature can make training a challenge. They learn quickly but may choose to ignore commands if they don’t see the point.
Effective training strategies include:
- Positive reinforcement (treats, praise, and play).
- Short, fun training sessions to prevent boredom.
- Consistency and patience, as Schipperkes can be stubborn.
- Early socialization to prevent excessive barking and territorial behavior.
Schipperkes have a high prey drive and may chase after small animals, so leash training and recall commands are essential. If trained properly, they excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.
Size and Weight
Despite their compact size, Schipperkes are sturdy and well-muscled, built for agility and speed.
- Height:
- Males & Females: 25–33 cm (10–13 inches)
- Weight:
- Males & Females: 3–9 kg (7–20 lbs)
Their small size makes them suitable for both apartments and houses, but their energy levels require ample exercise and playtime.
Special Traits of the Breed
- Tail or No Tail? – Some Schipperkes are born without tails, while others have them docked (depending on country regulations).
- Nicknamed “Little Black Devil” – Due to their mischievous and fearless personality.
- Escape Artists – Schipperkes are known for their ability to escape from fenced yards or enclosed spaces.
- Strong Prey Drive – Originally bred to hunt rats and vermin, they may chase small animals.
- Natural Watchdogs – They are very alert and will bark at any unusual activity.
Inherited Diseases
Schipperkes are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain genetic conditions, including:
- Mucopolysaccharidosis Type III (MPS III-B) – A rare but serious genetic disorder affecting mobility and brain function.
- Hip Dysplasia – Though uncommon in small dogs, it can occur in Schipperkes.
- Eye Problems – Such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.
- Patellar Luxation – A knee joint issue that can cause discomfort or lameness.
Reputable breeders screen for these conditions, and regular vet check-ups help maintain long-term health.
Diet
Schipperkes require high-quality food that supports their energy levels and muscle tone. Their diet should include:
- High-protein sources (chicken, fish, beef) for muscle maintenance.
- Healthy fats (fish oil, flaxseed) for skin and coat health.
- Complex carbohydrates (sweet potatoes, brown rice) for sustained energy.
- Joint-supporting nutrients (glucosamine and chondroitin) for long-term mobility.
Portion control is important to prevent weight gain, as this breed is prone to overeating if given too many treats.
Dog Type
The Schipperke belongs to the Companion and Working Dog Groups, originally used as a rat hunter and watchdog on boats and farms in Belgium. Today, it is valued as both a family companion and an excellent watchdog due to its alertness, intelligence, and protective nature.
5 Facts About the Schipperke
- Their name means “Little Captain” in Flemish, as they were popular on boats.
- They have no tail (sometimes) – Some are naturally tailless, while others are docked.
- They love to climb and explore, making them escape artists.
- They are one of Belgium’s oldest breeds, dating back to the 1600s.
- They are great at agility sports, excelling in competitions.
