Schipperke Picture Gallery

Schipperke Breeders

Schipperke Clubs/Associations

The Full Schipperke Description

The Schipperke has a can-do attitude. He is quick-thinking and quick-moving. He is unaware of his small size, and eagerly enters into play with dogs of any kind or size.

Did you know?

The Schipperke originated in the Flemish provinces of Belgium.
Schip means boat, schipper means captain of the boat and schipperke means "little captain of the boat".The dogs were used on the canal barges to guard the boat and catch the vermin. From there the name little captain.
Schipperke's are sometimes called "the best house dog" and very fond of children.

So you want to own a Schipperke?

He is curious and interested in everything around him. He is reserved with strangers and ready to protect his family and property if necessary. He is an ideal watchdog and companion.
The coat is black, although when they shed the coat may take on a slightly reddish cast. The coat is straight and abundant and slightly harsh to the touch.

Indicative Breed Standard

General Appearance

Small, cobby, active dog, with sharp foxy expression.

Characteristic

Intensely lively and alert.

Temperament

Amenable, intelligent and faithful.

Head and Skull

Skull not round, but fairly broad, flat, with little stop. Muzzle moderate in length, fine but not weak, well filled under eyes. Nose black and small.

Eyes

Dark brown, more oval than round, not full; bright, most expressive.

Ears

Moderate length, not too broad at base, tapering to a point. Carried stiffly erect and strong enough not to be bent otherwise than lengthways.

Mouth

Jaws strong, with perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws.

Neck

Strong and full, rather short, set broad on shoulders, slightly arched.

Forequarters

Shoulders muscular and sloping. Legs perfectly straight, well under the body, bone in proportion to the body.

Body

Chest broad and deep in brisket. Back short, straight and strong. Loins powerful, well drawn up from brisket.

Hindquarters

Fine compared with forequarters; muscular and well developed thighs, well rounded rump. Legs strong, muscular, hocks well let down.

Feet

Small, cat-like, and standing well on the toes.

Tail

Customarily docked or may be born tailless. Docked: Very short. Undocked: Tightly curled, carried over the back. Well covered with hair.

Gait/Movement

Short, brisk stride, moving true fore and aft.

Coat

Abundant, dense and harsh; smooth on head, ears and legs; lying close on back and side; erect and thick round neck, forming a mane and frill; with good culottes on the back of thighs.

Colour

Usually black but other whole colours permissible.

Size

Weight about 5.5-7.5 kgs (12-16 lbs).