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This small breed, the
Schipperke, has a history that goes back about
300 years or more, with roots in Belgium. The
Schipperke is most often black in color. In fact,
black is the only color accepted for show dogs in
the United States. The name was officially given to
this breed more than 100 years ago. Schipperke is
probably a corruption of the Flemish word
Schipperke, meaning little shepherd.
The breed is also commonly known as the Belgian
barge dog due to its status as a working dog on the
canals of Belgium. Not only is the Schipperke a good
boat dog, but the breed is also known for good
herding and hunting skills. This is a breed with a
strong temperament and intelligence.
Temperament
Independent and very smart, the Schipperke can make
a good companion with positive early training.
However, this compact little dog can also engage the
owner in a test of wills, especially if given the
upper hand. The Schipperke can be very active and is
quite curious, so the owner must provide plenty of
attention and activity to keep this dog satisfied.
The Schipperke is an excellent watchdog and wary of
strangers until satisfied with the situation.
Some Schipperke dogs have been described as having a
hot temper and others seem to be indifferent or
aloof around the family. Nevertheless, in reality
the Schipperke can be excellent with children if
raised with the proper socialization and early
training. This breed has also developed a reputation
as being a good companion for someone who is ill
because the dog often will lie quietly at the side
of the individual for long periods.
Size and Color
The Schipperke is a rather small, stocky dog that
usually weighs no more than 18 pounds. The common
range of weight is 12 pounds and up. Schipperke
stands about 10 inches to 13 inches at the withers,
so they are a small breed.
Black is the only color accepted by the American
Kennel Club for this breed. Keep in mind that
Schipperke can also come in a range of tan and fawn
colors as well. A Schipperke body should be compact
and somewhat square in proportion when viewed from
the side. The head is wedge-shaped and the muzzle is
pointed.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
The Schipperke coat has some distinct
characteristics, with different lengths depending on
the location on the body. The hair is longer around
the neck and along the chest and front legs. The
coat lays flat on the back. Though it is rather
thick, a Schipperke coat feels harsh to the touch.
However, the undercoat is softer. The American
Kennel Club and other organizations recommend only
some trimming of the whiskers and hair between the
pads of the feet. Some combing and brushing will
help keep the coat in condition. Schipperke may drop
almost all of the undercoat at one time during a
“coat change.”
For the Schipperke, some experienced owners
recommend one good meal each day with an added
biscuit or small amount of dry food at night. Many
owners of various purebred dogs have moved away from
lower-priced commercial foods to avoid the allergies
some dogs have to grains in cheaper foods. The
Schipperke meal should probably be primarily
high-quality meat products with adequate protein. It
is important to avoid over-feeding the Schipperke.
Providing adequate exercise is also important for
this active breed.
Exercise Needs
Giving the Schipperke an opportunity to run and play
off the leash would be ideal. This small, compact
breed can move very fast, however, so it is
important to do this in a large, uninhabited area to
avoid problems with other pets and strangers. A
large, fenced yard would be ideal for the
Schipperke.
With this in mind, owners should be prepared to give
the Schipperke plenty of exercise, even if it is
with walks on the leash. The dogs of this breed will
be very active indoors and will enjoy running around
the house. Remember that this is a working breed
that was often used to herd sheep and to hunt rats
on the boats.
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