Schipperke

Although there seems to be a continued debate over the true origin of the Schipperke, many formal Schipperke Clubs deny the thought that it was derived from the Spitz or the Pomeranian and rather believe that its ancestors are of the black sheepdog called the Leauvenaar. Many Schipperke breeders also believe that the Schipperke is a descendant of this Belgium sheepdog. The affinity between the two dogs is exceptional. The belief is that that this dog was repeatedly bred down from the black sheepdog until it became a breed of its own.

The name Schipperke was given to this breed, officially in 1888. Some Schipperke breeders say it translates into “Little Shepherd” while others argue it means “Little Captain”. What ever the case, history shows that it was a great canal dog, usually belonging to the captain of a barge. They would accompany the captain on his voyage and hold three important jobs. The first being security. They would bark exuberantly when someone approached the barge. Making them a wonderful watch dog. Ridding the barge of vermin was another imperative responsibility given to this small friend. And they were expected to nip at the heels of the towing horses to get the barge moving.

This loyal and devoted little friend weighs in at only twelve to eighteen pounds and stands ten to thirteen inches tall. The standard that many Schipperke breeders aspire to, includes a dog that sports a thick double coat in solid black, wearing a ‘ruff’ around its neck that blends back from shoulders to the hind quarters. The head has been described as looking like a fox’s, a wedge shape with the muzzle being pointed and the nose being black. The ears are perpendicular and each forms its own triangle. The body shape is fairly square, dense and they are usually born tailless.

This cute, alert dog has a great mentality. It is very intelligent, some exhibit understanding of new commands within the first five to fifteen repetitions. Schipperke breeders will tell you that this dog strives to please and will become very attached to their owner. The Schipperke is very active and requires daily exercise. They are very fast, agile and obedient, making them great candidates for training. This breed does need an owner that is a leader, sets the rules and limits and is consistent in enforcing them. Otherwise this little guy can begin to think he or she is in charge.