Physical attributes
- Height: ranges from 25cm / 10 inches up to 33cm / 13 inches.
- Weight: ranges from 5kg / 12lbs up to 8kg / 18lbs.
- Typical fur colours: black.
- Eye colour: brown.
- Size category: small.
Health attributes
- Common health problems: progressive retinal atrophy, thyroid problems and luxating patella.
- Usual longevity: 12 to 14 years.
- Hypoallergenic? No.
Schipperke breed fulfilment and exercise needs
Keeping a Schipperke happy and fulfilled isn’t just about providing food and shelter – these spirited little dogs need proper mental and physical stimulation to truly thrive. Originally bred as small game hunters, these clever pups have maintained their high energy levels and sharp minds through generations.
Exercise Requirements
Despite their compact size, Schipperkes are remarkably active dogs that need between 1 to 1.5 hours of exercise daily. Don’t let their small stature fool you – these determined little dogs can keep going long after their owners are ready to call it a day! Breaking up their exercise into morning and evening sessions often works best for busy families.
Enrichment Activities
When it comes to keeping a Schipperke mentally stimulated, variety is key. These intelligent dogs excel in activities like agility training, which challenges both their mind and body. Tracking games tap into their natural hunting instincts, while earthdog activities provide an exciting outlet for their investigative nature. Advanced obedience training isn’t just about good behavior – it’s a fantastic way to keep their sharp minds engaged.
Honoring Their Heritage
Understanding the Schipperke’s history as a small game hunter helps explain their need for active pursuits. These dogs were originally developed to chase rodents and other small prey, which explains their quick reflexes and endless enthusiasm for chase-based games. Today’s Schipperke might not be hunting vermin, but they still need outlets for these deeply ingrained instincts.
Pet parents who provide their Schipperkes with plenty of exercise and enrichment activities will find themselves rewarded with a happy, well-adjusted companion. Remember, a tired Schipperke is a good Schipperke – and these little dynamos need plenty of activity to reach that state!
Schipperke breed behavioural traits
- Character traits of a Schipperke: The Schipperke usually exhibits character traits that include confident, alert, curious and reserved.
- Schipperke obey scale: In percentage terms, the Schipperke typically scores around 85% on the obey scale.
- Trick repetitions required: In terms of how many times the Schipperke needs to learn new tricks, expect between 5 and 15 repetitions before they pick things up.
- Intelligence category: The Schipperke sites in the excellent category when it comes to intelligence.
- Suitability for children: If you have kids, it’s worth knowing that the Schipperke is moderately suitable for children.
Fascinating Background and History of the Schipperke: Belgium’s Little Black Captain
Anyone who’s lucky enough to share their home with a Schipperke knows there’s something special about these spirited little dogs. While they’re classified today as non-sporting dogs by major kennel clubs, these compact black bundles of energy have a rich working heritage that dates back centuries in their native Belgium.
The story of the Schipperke begins in medieval Belgium, where these clever canines earned their reputation as exceptional working dogs. Their name, which translates to “little captain” in Flemish, hints at their historical role as watchdogs on Belgian canal boats. However, these versatile pups weren’t confined to nautical duties – they proved themselves as outstanding small game hunters, using their sharp instincts and agility to catch rats and other vermin both on ships and in Belgian workshops.
Dating back to the 1600s, Schipperkes were highly valued among Belgian shopkeepers and craftsmen for their remarkable ability to keep their premises free of rodents. Their working dog heritage shines through in their alert nature and keen intelligence, though they’ve smoothly transitioned into the role of beloved family companions. Despite their current non-sporting classification, these dogs haven’t lost their natural hunting instincts or their innate drive to work.
While their size might be small, Schipperkes pack a powerful punch when it comes to personality. These distinctive black dogs have maintained many of the traits that made them excellent working companions centuries ago. Their alertness, intelligence, and natural hunting abilities continue to make them stand out among other breeds. Modern Schipperke owners often find their pets still display that ancestral eagerness to chase small creatures – a cherished reminder of their hunting heritage.
A Legacy of Excellence
These remarkable dogs have come a long way from their humble Belgian beginnings, yet they’ve never lost touch with their working dog roots. Today’s Schipperkes might not be hunting or patrolling canal boats, but they still showcase the same determination, intelligence, and work ethic that made them indispensable to their Belgian masters. Their evolution from dedicated working dogs to cherished family companions stands as a testament to their adaptability and enduring appeal.
Typical costs for buying and owning a Schipperke
- Typical purchase price: £520. (Ranges from £237 to £770).
- Expected lifetime cost: £11,005.
- Food costs per year: £595.