Schipperke

The Schipperke is an unusual little pup! Some say its appearance is fox like, but it's facial features with large, pointy ears and big eyes have also been likened to a bat. This is a small dog with a square frame and shorter legs, their long fur looking as majestic as a lions across their chest! This is an uniquely loveable little pup!

Other Names
Schip, Schipper, Schippie
Country of Origin
The Netherlands
Colour

Comes in black, tans and fauns but black is the only colour that is accepted in showing and is the most prevalent colour around.

Size
Small
Height / Weight
Height 21-33cms and weigh 5.5-8kgs.
Health
Some health problems the Schipperke can be prone to include hypothyroid, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and hip sockets which tend to slip, a product of their active life. Eye problems can also be common.
Life Span

14 -15 years

Intelligence
Whilst highly intelligent, this breed does need consistent training and a confident handler. It will reverse roles if you are too soft, too uncertain or too inconsistent.
Exercise
Medium
Suitability (Children)
Medium
Feeding

The Schip isn't expensive to feed given their active lifestyle.

Feeding Cost
$5-$10 p/w
Other Cost
Excercise
The Schipperke is high energy and full of enthusiasm for life. They will need a daily walk to keep them happy but are also active indoors if given the opportunity.
Hair Shed
Little
Ailments
Some health problems the Schipperke can be prone to include hypothyroid, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and hip sockets which tend to slip, a product of their active life. Eye problems can also be common.
Grooming
The Schipperke's coat looks so luscious it may be surprising to find they are not too demanding when it comes to grooming. A regular brush will be all they need to look their best!
Grooming Frequency
Once a week
Trimming
Little
Despite its small form, the Schipperke was originally bred from a sheep dog called the Leauvenaar in Belgium. Over time their canal boat captain champion bred them smaller and smaller until they were an entirely different breed. The Schippie was used for guarding livestock and ratting on the canal boats as well as keeping guard when required. Even today they are still at home on a boat! The breed became more popular in the late 1800s and soon became a household pet in Belgium and then the world!


comments powered by Disqus