Schipperke

Overview of Schipperkes

Schipperkes are widely referred to in the United States, albeit erroneously, as “Belgian barge dogs” or “Belgian ship dogs.” Apparently, however, their history dates to a seventeenth-century black shepherd dog commonly called the Leuvenaar, a 40-pound dog often found in the Louvain region of Belgium and employed to guard flocks and transport.

Schipperkes love to play with toys: small stuffed toys will likely lose their squeakers quickly, but the Schipperke will have so much fun dispatching the “vermin.” Games of fetch in the yard or even in the house are also a great way to entertain and exercise the fun-loving Schipperke.

Schipperkes were commonly used as working dogs who guarded the boats in canals, earning themselves a fun nickname: "The Little Captain." Tradesmen also kept early schipperkes as "ratters" who would keep pesky mice and other small animals away.

Schipperkes are, as the AKC says, “small dogs built for hard work.” Stealthy hunters, the little schipperke is a natural born ratter and even in a modern, urban setting he’ll live for the hunt.

The Schipperke is a fewtimes erroneously described as a Spitz, and while it may not be closely related to this family, it does share the compact, upright shape, and dense coat seen in the German Spitz, for example.

The Schipperke is a relatively healthy breed, usually living
to 13 years and a fewtimes long.  Most of
their problems can be traced to environmental issues which include over feeding or
not enough exercise. 

Schipperkes that are given rules to follow, limits as to what they are and are not allowed to do, along with a consistent, firm pack leader, and a daily pack walk, will not develop these negative behaviors.

Schipperkes are in Danger of Developing eye difficulties, patellar luxation, and autoimmune thyroiditis, attracting their minimal possible health prices to $7,200 during their 13- into 15-year lifespan.

Schipperkes are quite trainable in obedience, agility, freestyle dance, etc., however, they do require variety in their training as they can become bored quite easily with the same routine.

A Schipperke is intermittently featured in the tiger-centric movie Two Brothers (2004)[9] and also appears in Daphne Du Maurier’s short story “A Borderline Case.”

Barking

Schipperkes are generally quite healthy and long-lived.Malignant hyperthermia is also called canine stress syndrome.Of course, like most purebred dogs, the Schipperke certain hereditary health conditions are known to occur in the breed, including eye diseases (specifically, canine multifocal retinopathy and progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA) and von Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder).These triggers can be certain types of inhaled anesthesia, excessive exercise or ingesting certain substances like caffeine (found in coffee, chocolate and other foods) and hops (which are used to make beer).Two unusual disorders sometimes seen in Schipperkes include juvenile laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy, which causes the dog to experience difficulty breathing, barking and swallowing when exercised or excited, and malignant hyperthermia, which the dog to have extreme muscle contractions, increased metabolism, rapid heartbeat, elevated body temperature and seizures when the dog is exposed to certain triggers.

Breed

Many Schipperke breeders started out with Schipperkes as a second breed, usually after having owned a larger breed for some time. The average Schipperke seems to have no difficulty in adjusting to life with other dogs, even large ones, or with cats, horses, cows, etc. Many of them have a herding or prey instinct that causes them to dig for moles and gophers, bark at ground squirrels, and go alert when attacked by the occasional broom or box. More than one Schipperke of the same sex in any household, however, can be a problem until the order of seniority is established. 

Coat

Healthy Schipperkes usually shed their undercoats twice a year — in the spring and again in the fall. A bitch who has whelped will shed undercoat about two months after having her litter, and dogs who have been ill or undergone surgery will sometimes shed following these events.

Energy

"Because they are so wily and need solid, consistent training and activity, they may not be the best dog for a first-time dog owner." If you have the energy, though, schipperkes make for cheerful and adventurous travel companions."Schipperkes are small, but mighty little dogs," Erin Askeland, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, an animal health and behavior consultant at Camp Bow Wow, says.

Genetic Predispositions

At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Little Skipper looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Schipperkes.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

Grooming

A groomer could do this for the person without a force dryer.Dry shampoo when necessary.I find it easier and quicker to give them a hot bath than force air the coat two or three times during this week (always outside!) to get rid of all the loose, itchy hair before the dog leaves it all over the house.One owner sayss "I’ve pulled out up to two shopping bags full of soft, down hair out of one 12-pound Schip!The Schipperke is very clean and pretty much takes care of its own grooming, but to keep the medium-length double-coat in top condition, comb and brush regularly with a firm bristle brush.They are literally naked and butt ugly for about 2-3 months, depending on the time of year and how much time they spend outside, for the hair to come back to a new lustrous coat."They shed very little until the coat "blows," which can be as often as 3 times a year on females; less so on males and spayed females, especially as they age.This coat change is a sudden drop of ALL undercoat within about a 10-day period.

Health

“Ailments that could potentially affect a schipperke include hip arthritis, luxating patellas, thyroid disease, and eye issues.”“Schipperkes are generally healthy dogs, but it’s always important for a pet owner to have them fully vetted before, if possible, and upon acquiring one and throughout their life to maintain optimal health,” Askeland says.

Infections

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, herage, and other factors.Schipperkes are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Life expectancy

However, even these dogs are known to suffer from certain health issues such as…Schipperkes are a very healthy breed of dog with a high life expectancy of 13 to 15 years.They may be small, but are strong and rugged.

Obesity

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk.It is a serious disease that may causeor worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease.Obesity can be a significant health problem in Schipperkes.She’ll feel better, and so will you!Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats.

Personality

Schipperke temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Social

Dogs who come from parents of generally calm dispositions will tend to be calm as well, but their treatment as puppies and young dogs is far more important in shaping character and disposition. This is why it is important to buy from a breeder whose breeding stock and socialization practices are known. Many rescue Schipperkes become highly agitated and nervous during thunderstorms. Thus, special attention is required to assist them in calming down during periods of thunder and lightening.In general, a well-adjusted Schipperke is not considered to be high-strung, nervous, or yappy …

Temperament

Read on to learn what to expect and how to find Schipperke for a reasonable price and with a healthy temperament.

Training

Don’t be surprised to find him sniffing around for the next cool thing he can do (especially if it means causing trouble).Food rewards are another great motivator.Grooming your Schip is fairly easy with a good brushing about once a week, and maybe a little more often during shedding seasons.He can be adventurous.He loves his family and will want to be involved in everything.HealthThe Schipperke has several health concerns to watch for:Hip dysplasiaSchips need vigorous exercise, fortunately they will provide much for themselves.Still, they would love a game of fetch or a nice walk.The Schipperke can be extremely headstrong and likes to march to a beat of his own drum, which is why early training and socialization is so important.The same energy that drives him to always be moving, gives him the instincts he needs to be a great watchdog.What’s the Schipperke like?The Schipperke is curious, active, and independent.You’ll need to be firm and consistent but also use positive reinforcements.

Can they adapt to apartments? Small yards?

Yes, but special care must be taken to meet their needs for exercise, especially during their first two or three years.They are active, sociable, curious dogs, and it is dangerous to their well-being to confine them to a small space or to let them run loose.Many breeders will not sell a Schipperke unless the minimum requirements of a fenced yard and abundant human companionship will be met.They also love to go for walks, regardless of their age.

Are they hard to train?

It depends on your patience.As indicated, they are inquisitive and not usually satisfied to do something every time, just because they are told to.They are intelligent enough to adapt well to a training program and a regime with emphasis on praise.They may seem slow to learn initially, however, after they reach about eighteen months of age, they learn at a much faster rate, and will often surprise their owners with the depth of what they have mastered.Schipperkes are quite trainable in obedience, agility, freestyle dance, etc., however, they do require variety in their training as they can become bored quite easily with the same routine.

Did You Know?

Schipperkes make great companions for families that love boating.  They already seem to have their sea legs and love the water.

Are they High-strung? Nervous? Yappy?

In general, a well-adjusted Schipperke is not considered to be high-strung, nervous, or yappy …however, they are very intelligent dogs who like to involve themselves in their environment.Thus, they do tend to bark as they react to changes in that environment.Like any breed, including homo sapiens, Schipperkes who are faced with unfamiliar situations will become unsettled and, if not reassured, can become anxious.Dogs who come from parents of generally calm dispositions will tend to be calm as well, but their treatment as puppies and young dogs is far more important in shaping character and disposition. This is why it is important to buy from a breeder whose breeding stock and socialization practices are known. Many rescue Schipperkes become highly agitated and nervous during thunderstorms. Thus, special attention is required to assist them in calming down during periods of thunder and lightening.

Are They Child-Friendly?

Schipperkes are friendly with children and will enjoy playing with them as long as your child’s energy holds out.If raised together, they can be best friends for your child including toddlers.

Are they hard to groom?

Schipperkes require normal grooming that includes regular brushing, bathing, and nail trimming …usually about twice a month.During shedding periods, more frequent brushing will help to remove the loose fur and encourage new growth.

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Are they prone to any diseases?

Schipperkes are not really prone to any viral diseases.They require all the usual protections from diseases, such as rabies, parvo and distemper, in addition to protection from parasites.There is a very debilitating and painful genetic disease called MPS-IIIB that affects humans, emus, and Schipperkes.When considering the purchase of a Schipperke, you should request proof of MPS testing for both the sire and the dam.The University of Pennsylvania conducts the testing and issues a letter specific to each individual dog that was tested and which provides the results of the testing.MPS can affect the offspring only when both the sire and dam are determined to be carriers of the genetic marker.Schipperkes whose sire and dam were tested as “normal” (clear) for MPS-IIIB are considered “clear by pedigree” and will not have been tested directly.

Food & Diet Requirements ??

These are small dogs and they don’t need to eat much.Be very careful not to overfeed them, as obesity is terrible for them.It also doesn’t take much to fatten them up.

Do they get along with kids?

If treated well, they respond with love and loyalty — and the size of their people doesn’t seem to matter.  Generally, a young Schipperke who is raised with young children will get along quite well with children of any age. Schipperkes who are raised without benefit of exposure to young children will require monitoring until the dog becomes comfortable with the noises and sudden motions of babies and toddlers.

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Grooming ??

While they’re not quite hypoallergenic, Schipperkes don’t shed much (with one exception) and require little in the way of grooming.They’re not prone to stinking either, so you should only need to bathe them if they become visibly dirty.

How active is the Schipperke?

This is a fairly active small dog so while it needs lots of activity, mental stimulation and jobs to do, for most this is manageable.This is not the right breed to consider though if you are inactive and just looking for a lap dog.It will need regular outdoors time to adjust to apartment living, and it will also need training to control its vocalization.As well as going for a good couple of walks a day so that it gets 30 minutes or more in total, you can also expect to have to take it somewhere where it can run safely off leash.Dog parks are one possibility and they are also a place you can play games with it.If there is a yard make sure it is well fenced, this is a quick and agile breed, for the same reason also walk it on a leash.It will enjoy sniffing around and playing in even a small yard but it does like to dig.

Are they difficult to breed?

The relative smallness of the puppies (average weight of 4-6 ounces) requires great care during the first few days.Once through their tail docking and first few days of sucking up their mother’s milk, though, they are very sturdy little creatures.It should be noted that litters are small (2-4 puppies), and the expense of whelping and caring for the litter helps eliminate the profit motive as an incentive to breed.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? ??

Schipperkes can make excellent family pets.They especially adore children, as kids are often as fixated on playing 24/7 as they are.

Are they naturally tail-less?

Schipperkes are generally born with a tail that is often docked within the first of 3-4 days after birth.Within a given litter, the pups can be born with a full tail, a half tail (or stub), or a nub.The tail-less silhouette is a breed standard in conformation but showing a Schipperke with a tail is not a disqualification.More breeders are no longer docking tails because of potential health issues.The United States is the only major country in the world that still allows docking of tails; other countries have banned the practice.

How old do they get?

A healthy Schipperke should live to be 12 to 16 years old.One that consistently chews your shoes or gets into the laundry basket will probably live much, much longer.Schipperkes have been known to live to the age of 20+ years.

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Where can I get one?

Your first source of a Schipperke is through a reputable breeder.Our breeder referral page will give you access to the list of breeders provided by the Schipperke Club of America.

Have any questions about health in your breed?

If you have any concerns about a particular health condition in your breed then you may wish to speak to your vet or you could contact your breed health co-ordinator.Breed health co-ordinators are individuals working on behalf of breed clubs and councils who are advocates for the health and welfare of their chosen breed.They acts as a spokesperson on matters of health and will collaborate with The Kennel Club on any health concerns the breed may have.

How big do they get?

In regard to nicely pedigreed Schipperkes, the average male in good condition will weigh from 15-18 pounds and stand 11-13 inches at the withers. A bitch will be an inch or so shorter and weigh less, usually from 11-15 pounds depending on build and bone structure.A Schipperke in full coat will look heavier than its actual weight.

How is the Schipperke with children and other animals?

Schipperke are good with children especially with early socialization and if raised alongside them.It is an energetic and playful dog which makes a great playmate for children and they are also affectionate towards them too.While it can get along well even with younger children, it does not like being startled or teased and may snap should a child do that to them.Make sure children are taught how to approach it, touch it and play with it appropriately.With other pets like cats, and other dogs in its family it is usually accepting of them when raised with them.However it does have a strong prey drive which means strange cats or rabbits or birds are something it will want to chase.Some Schipperke will have prey instincts that drive it to also chase other small pets in the home.This is a territorial dog so it will be defensive with other strange dogs and if not fixed can be aggressive with them.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

Given the fact that they’re constantly in search of playmates that can keep up with them, Schipperkes usually view other dogs as friends rather than foes.They’ll play with dogs several times their size without backing down, seemingly on the assumption that they’re every bit as big as their counterpart.

Do Schipperkes Do Well With Children and Other Pets?

Like many smaller dogs, Schips have a tendency to be snappy and reactive when pushed.They are also less tolerant of pain and situations they find threatening than other breeds.For this reason, this is not the best breed choice for houses with small children and toddlers.

What will training look like?

Training a Schipperke is going to be a challenge if you are not experienced, and will still be a gradual process even if you have it.It can be eager to please and it is intelligent but is independent so can be willful.Owners need to be firm and clear about being the leader.Set rules and make they are followed at all times.Be confident and be consistent, patient and positive.It is very mischievous and is inclined to take advantage of it senses you caving in.It does not like being scolded or handled harshly, offer it treats, praise and encouragement to motivate it and make the sessions short and interesting.Make sure it has things to do and is well trained and it will be a well behaved pet, let it rule and leave it unoccupied and it will be difficult to live with.

Do they shed a lot?

Healthy Schipperkes usually shed their undercoats twice a year — in the spring and again in the fall. A bitch who has whelped will shed undercoat about two months after having her litter, and dogs who have been ill or undergone surgery will sometimes shed following these events.If your Schipperke seems to shed more often or for too long, check with your veterinarian.

Health Conditions ??

Schipperkes are one of the healthiest breeds out there, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have health issues.There are few conditions you should be aware of.

What can I expect to pay for a puppy?

Median Price: $1,100.00
Average Price: $700.00
Top Quality: $1,400.00 to $4,700.

What’s the Price of Schipperke Puppies?

It’s rare to find a full-blooded Schipperke in the pound, but it does happen.We always encourage people to begin their search there before branching out to breeders.

Training ??

Training these dogs is essential; it can also be quite difficult.They’re headstrong and opinionated, and they may have different ideas of what their training should entail.

How much do Schipperke puppies cost?

The cost to buy a Schipperke varies greatly and depends on many factors such as the breeders’ location, reputation, litter size, lineage of the puppy, breed popularity (supply and demand), training, socialization efforts, breed lines and much more.Review how much Schipperke puppies for sale sell for below.

Exercise ??

These dogs are little dynamos, and as such, they’ll need quite a bit of exercise.At minimum, they’ll need an hour of moderate activity per day, but they’ll take as much as you can give them.

Is the Schipperke the Right Dog for You?

Schipperkes are that rare breed of dog that is good with kids, cats, adults and other dogs, so they are perfect with family life.As an owner, you will need to provide plenty of exercise for your schip or his barking and naughty behavior will drive you nuts.An outstanding solution would be adopting a second dog who loves to play, wrestle and chase.

Is A Schipperke Mix Right For Me?

Always make sure to check your potential parent’s health history with a vet and ask your potential breeders about any questions or concerns you have.

How much do they cost?

The cost depends on the quality and reputation of the sire and dam and the breeder, as well as of the individual dog.An excellent quality show puppy from a reputable breeder can command a minimum of $1,000 (and upward).A so-called “pet-quality” puppy may cost a bit less than that amount, and you’ll be required to neuter the animal.In assessing the cost of a Schipperke, one should give primary consideration to finding a healthy dog from a reputable breeder.It is up to each breeder to decide how much to charge for show-quality and pet-quality dogs.

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What about a Rescue?

The Colonial Schipperke Club is very active in supporting rescue and placement of “pre-owned” Schipperkes.These are Schipperkes who, for reasons normally not of their making, have lost their people.They may be lost or stolen dogs, dogs who suffer from the deaths or divorces of their owners, or dogs who are given up for a variety of reasons by their original owners.The club and our members work through SchipperkeRescue.net to provide transport, foster care, and fund-raising events to assist Schipperkes in need.If you are interested in possibly adopting a rescued Schipperke, please visit our Rescue page for more information.

How about with other animals?

Many Schipperke breeders started out with Schipperkes as a second breed, usually after having owned a larger breed for some time. The average Schipperke seems to have no difficulty in adjusting to life with other dogs, even large ones, or with cats, horses, cows, etc. Many of them have a herding or prey instinct that causes them to dig for moles and gophers, bark at ground squirrels, and go alert when attacked by the occasional broom or box. More than one Schipperke of the same sex in any household, however, can be a problem until the order of seniority is established.

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How do you pronounce it?

Most of us call them “SKIPPER-KEES” with emphasis on the “SKIP” part…or we just call them “SKIPS.

History of Schipperkes

In the 1690s, the schipperke became popular on barges in the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium, Flanders, and earned its name meaning "little captain" in Flemish.

In 1690 it was one of the first breeds to appear in a specialty dog show put on by guild workers to display the dogs wearing collars made of hammered brass, common to the times.

In 1690, a group of shoemakers in the St.

In 1690, guild workers in Brussels held a show featuring the schipperke, known as the spits or spitske.

In 1690, members of the shoemakers guild were invited to display their Schipperkes (and their hammered brass collars) in the Grand Palace of Brussels, marking one of the first “specialty” dog shows.

In 1761, this breed
became popular in England’s royal circles after the Princess Sophie Charlotte
brought her two Pomeranians with her when she married the future King George III.

In 1882, a writer in the breed’s homeland of Belgium described the Schipperke as “a little all-black devil, but minus the cloven hoof and the tail.” He’s changed little since then.

In 1885, after Queen Marie Henriette saw a Schipperke at a Brussels dog show, these dogs became a fashionable pet.

In 1885, Queen Marie Henriette, the wife of Leopold II, became enamored with these small dogs.

in 1888.

In 1929 the Schipperke Club of America was formed.

In 1929, a dedicated club (Schipperke Club of America) was formed for the Schipperke.

In 1929, the Schipperke Club of America was founded.

In 1934, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was officially recognized by the AKC.

In 1995, it was renamed to the “Alaskan Klee Kai, and was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1997.

In 1995, the name was changed to Alaskan Klee Kai.

In 2000, a new resident in town joined my obedience classes with a Schipperke and we became great friends.

In 2001, Ana won Best of Breed and a Group 1 in Canada beating that year’s Westminster Best of Breed winner.

In the 1690s, the schipperke became popular on the barges and earned its name schipperke, meaning “little captain” in Flemish.

In the 1800s, people started keeping them as family pets instead of for hunting and they became very popular with the European royalty like Queen Victoria’s court.