The Schipperke (pronounced: skipper-key) has been known for centuries in the Flemish Province of Belgium where he was bred as a watchdog and hunter of vermin.
He is a bright, active and inquisitive dog that makes an excellent family companion. He is very good with children and suspicious of strangers, making him a good watchdog. Smart, loyal and loving, the Schip needs attention and companionship. He is active and loves to learn, and will excel in such activities as obedience, agility, flyball, tracking and herding.
In appearance, the Schipperke is a small, compact dog with a distinctive double coat that is shiny and slightly harsh. He also wears a ruff, cape and culottes. In North America, the only permitted colour is black. He has a fox-like head with an expression of mischief and impudence but never wild or aggressive looking.
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Health Issues:
In general, Schipperkes are a very healthy breed and long lived. Epilepsy, Legges-Perthes disease and thyroid problems have been known to occur occasionally in the breed but the incidence of these problems is fairly low.
There is, however, a new genetic disease that has been identified in the breed: Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB (MPS IIIB), also known as Sanfilippo syndrome type IIIB. The disease is fatal but a test has been available since April 2003 and all breeding stock should be tested along with any dog showing symptoms.
If you are considering the adoption of a Schipperke puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards
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AKC SCHIPPERKE VIDEO
25 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Grooming Information:
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your dog, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Schipperke Pedigree Database — from Bonchien
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
