Non-Sporting group
Schipperke
The “little black devil” — a curious, confident Belgian barge dog.
Schipperkes are small, fox-faced black dogs that once guarded canal barges and shops in Belgium. They are lively, curious and loyal, but independent, vocal and wary of strangers.
- Height
- 10–13 in25–33 cm
- Weight
- 10–16 lb5–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–15 years
- Size
- Small
- Group
- Non-Sporting
- Origin
- Belgium
Coat: Dense double coat with a ruff, cape and culottes. Colours: Black.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Schips are alert, inquisitive and full of mischief. They bond strongly with their families and are often good with children they grow up with.
They are natural watchdogs and suspicious of strangers. They are independent and quick, with a talent for escaping and a strong urge to chase small animals.
Living with a Schipperke
Exercise
About 45–60 minutes of walks and games daily. Always use a lead or secure area.
Grooming
Brush weekly; expect a heavy coat blow once or twice a year, when daily brushing helps. Little odour.
Training
Clever but independent; keep sessions short, varied and fun.
Kids & other pets
Good with children and usually fine with other dogs. Unsafe with rodents.
Time alone
Tolerates moderate alone time but may bark or become destructive when bored.
Home fit
Adapts well to apartments and smaller homes when daily needs are met.
Is a Schipperke right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Schipperke matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Schipperke typically lives 13–15 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB
An inherited neurological disease with a DNA test; responsible breeders test every dog.
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid; managed with daily medication.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
Degeneration of the hip joint in young small dogs.
Patellar luxation
Loose kneecaps occur in small breeds.
Ask a breeder for
- DNA test for MPS IIIB
- Patella evaluation
- Eye examination
- Thyroid evaluation
Sources: OFA CHIC breed requirements: Schipperke; Schipperke Club of America. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $1,000–$2,000 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
Schipperkes were popular with Belgian shoemakers and bargemen in the 1600s and 1700s, catching rats and guarding property. The name is often said to mean “little captain” or “little shepherd” in Flemish.
Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium helped popularise the breed in the 1880s. The AKC recognised the Schipperke in 1904.
Did you know?
- Schipperkes are nicknamed “little black devils”.
- They were once popular watchdogs on Belgian canal barges.
- Many Schipperkes are born without tails.
Library guides for Schipperke owners
Training
Come (Recall)
High chase drive makes a reliable recall essential.
Exercise & Play
Hide and Seek
Brain work that tires busy minds.
Training
Place / Go to Mat
Teaching a settle helps dogs that struggle to switch off.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Schipperke.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Schipperke breeder about health screening.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Are Schipperkes good family dogs?
- Yes, for active families. They are loyal but wary of strangers.
- Do Schipperkes shed?
- Moderately, with heavy seasonal sheds.
- Do Schipperkes bark a lot?
- They are alert watchdogs and can be vocal.