Origin
Belgium
Lifespan
12–14 years
Weight
3–9 kg
Height
25–33 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Black
Schipperke
About This Breed
The Schipperke is a small Belgian breed historically used as a watchdog and ratter on canal barges. Known as the 'Little Black Devil' for their mischievous personality, they are fearless, curious, and devoted.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Schipperke
Origin
| Origin | Belgium |
| Group | Non-sporting |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 3–9 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Height | 25–33 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Black |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Curious · Confident · Alert · Faithful |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Can shed a lot. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Teach children to handle it gently and leave it alone when it rests.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Schipperke is an affectionate little dog that originated in 1600s Belgium. They worked as watchdogs and rodent hunters on barges, which led to the name Schipperke, meaning “little captain” in Flemish. Schipperkes were first imported to the U.S. in 1888, according to the Schipperke Club of America (SCA), and the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904. This small black dog breed weighs 10–16 pounds and stands 10–13 inches tall at the shoulder. Caring for a Schipperke Schipperkes are intelligent, curious dogs that have a lot of energy.
Care Guide
Schipperkes are intelligent, curious dogs that have a lot of energy. They require activities that keep their mind engaged and their body active. Without this, they may bark to excess, engage in destructive chewing, or dig up your yard. The Schipperke has a black, medium-length double coat. Weekly brushing helps keep the coat free of tangles and removes dead hair, but Schipperkes don’t need as much grooming upkeep as other fluffy dogs might.