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Description
The Schipperke is a trendy breed of small, fox-like dog that originated in Belgium. It belongs to the non-sporting breed family which is remarkable for their distinguished sturdy built, personality, and appearance. Schipperkes have been bred to become vermin hunters, barge dogs, watchdogs, and family companions. Their thick, medium-length double coat tends to be shorter around the ears, face, and front of the forelegs as well as the hocks, and relatively longer in the shoulder, neck, and rump areas. Coat colors typically include solid black, and various shades of tan and fawn.
Height and Weight
Both the male and female members of the Schipperke breed normally stand a height of 10 to 13 in at the withers, and weigh 12 to 18 lbs.
Temperament
Schipperkes, in general, are energetic, quick, and highly spirited little fellows. They are alert and self-confident. The breed is also known to be very loyal and devoted towards their family owners. As a matter of fact, they get along well with their owners and other pets. Schipperkes are mischievous, curious, and highly intelligent. The breed eager to learn, thereby, making them very easy to train. They tend to excel particularly on boats. Another exceptional quality of these pets is their ability to defend the home against any intruder. To keep Schipperkes from turning out to be wary and reserved with strangers, proper socialization is highly necessary. Because of their propensity to develop Small Dog Syndrome, handlers have to be firm yet calm, and consistent when it comes to disciplining them. Otherwise, the breed will develop several behavior problems such as separation anxiety and obsessive barking.
Grooming
Schipperkes are very easy to groom. Their coat only needs to be brushed regularly to keep it clean and neat. Trimming, however, is not advisable. Dry shampoo their coat only when absolutely necessary. These cute pets are low shedders.
Health Concerns
Some of the most common health complications associated with the breed include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, Legg Calve Perthes disease, and several eye problems. Schipperkes, nonetheless, are usually long-lived with an average life expectancy of 14 to 17 years.
Best Environment
Members of the Schipperkes are generally adaptable. They make excellent apartment dogs, though may not thrive when locked up in a kennel. The breed is fairly active indoors, and access to a small yard would make these little pooches happy. When it comes to exercise, Schipperkes would need daily physical exertions.
