Schipperke Purebred Dogs and Puppies

Schipperke

This dog breed was originally developed in Belgium during the 17th and 18th centuries. In fact, the breed name is a Flemish word that stands for "little captain," a well-suited name for his original job as a watchdog on canal boats.

In appearance he is a small, thickset, cobby, black, tail-less dog with a fox-like face. The dog is square in profile and possesses a distinctive coat, which includes a stand-out ruff, cape, and culottes. All of these features create a very unique silhouette and making them appear to slope from shoulders to croup.

He is curious and interested in everything around him and is reserved with strangers and ready to protect his family and property if necessary. He is also an ideal watchdog and companion.

Training can be a challenge with this independent, head-strong, and curious breed, though he is highly trainable overall. They can be quite difficult to housebreak.

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The Schipperke stands 10 to 13 inches in height at the shoulder and weighs between 12 to 18 pounds. These are hardy little dogs, and one of the healthier and longest lived breeds of all canines, having known to reach 20 years of age.

Their coat is black, although when they shed the coat may take on a slightly reddish cast. Their coat is straight and abundant and slightly harsh to the touch - short on their face, ears, and legs and straight, thick, and hard on their body. The undercoat of this dog breed is dense and soft. Regular brushing is recommended to keep the coat in good condition.

Their name is believed to mean "little shepherd" and they are sometimes called "the best house dog". They are very fond of children. This dog breed thrives on affection and attention and loves to be treated as a member of the family.

An apartment is fine for this breed as long as he gets plenty of daily exercise. Be forewarned, the Schipperke has a tendency to be dog aggressive and also possesses a high prey drive, especially toward small animals.

He can be a noisy dog breed and may become restless and destructive if left alone for too long. They are an active, spirited, courageous breed of dog that is also an excellent guard dog.

Country of origin: Belgium
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Colors: Black, undercoat may be lighter
Known health problems: Epilepsy, mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB (a fatal disease: symptoms include tremors and balance problems)

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