The schipperke originated in 16th-century Belgium, where is kept canal barges free of rats and watched for intruders. Schipperke is Flemish for "little captain". He is in constant motion, curious about everything and everyone - in short, a delightful, furry busybody.
|
| Height: |
10 - 13 inches |
| Weight: |
12 - 18 lbs. |
| Temperament: |
Alert, social, smart, stubborn, curious |
| Color(s): |
Black |
| Grooming: |
Should be brushed once a week. |
| Coat(s): |
Outercoat is abundant straight and slightly coarse; the undercoat is softer, thick and very dense around the neck. |
| With
Children: |
Enjoys most children if socialized at a young age; can be nippy with children who don't treat them gently. |
| With
Pets: |
Gets along well with other animals. |
| Training: |
Does well in obedience training only if its mulishness is pacified gently but firmly. Can be difficult to housebreak; may be possessive of toys and food bowls. |
| Exercise: |
Needs vigorous daily exercise, such as two or three fast-paced long walks. |
| Health
Issues: |
Legg-Perthes disease, hypothyroidism. |
| Housing: |
Well-suited for city or country living. They do best with a fenced back yard and plenty of exercise. |
| Life
Span: |
12 - 15 years |
| Country
of Origin: |
Belgium |
| Conformation
Group: |
Non-Sporting
|
| More
Resources: |