Schipperke

Schipperkes are small cobby dogs with sharp foxy expressions. The eyes should be dark brown. Coats are usually black but can come in other whole colours. The coats should be harsh and have a frill and a mane, and good culottes on the back of the thighs. The feet should be catlike, and the tail should curl over the back (Sometimes bobtails occur). A Schipperke can be walked several kilometres a day but will be equally content spending a day in the back yard. Schipperkes are very intelligent dogs and this needs to be considered when planning their training and housing.

Schipperkes don't have a "doggy odour".

The Schipperke is also known as the "Belgian Barge Dog", "Little Captain", and "Little Black Devil". Originating in Belgian, Schipperkes were first noted in writings of the monk Wenceslas in the fifteenth century. In 1600 a show for Schipperkes was held in Brussels - believed to be the first specialty show for any breed. In the 1800s Belgian gentlemen would craft special brass collars for their Schipperkes and proudly walk their dogs through town. Schipperkes all so severed as herding dogs on farms as well as watchdogs and ratters on barges, keeping an eye on the cargo and befriending the horses that towed the barge.

A Schipperke should be active lively and alert, and its temperament should be amenable, intelligent, and faithful. Schipperkes are strongly loyal to their family and friendly to children, they are very good with the elderly but distrustful of strangers. A Schipperke can co-exist with other small dogs, cats, and good-natured large dogs. In the absence of humans, Schipperkes enjoy the company of other dogs often other Schipperkes. The schipperke is a watchdog and will "raise the alarm" when the doorbell rings or another disturbance occurs.

Schipperkes are low-maintenance dogs. They don't require bathing but may be brushed or combed occasionally. The coat is fairly short. It drops once a year (twice for intact females).

Nails need regular clipping.