If you’re looking for a little bundle of fun that’s only about a foot high, weighs in at between 10 and 16 pounds and is a great watchdog, look no further than the Schipperke.
She’s quite adaptable when it comes to new situations but has the tendency to bark. A lot.
Here’s more info about this classic breed.
Breed History
As part of the AKC non-sporting group, this dog is a relative of the black sheepdog found in Belgium. The breed’s name … often times shortened to “Schip” or LBD for little black devil … originated in the Flemish language and stands for little captain.
They started their working lives as watchdogs on boats that navigated canals and made their first appearance in America in the late 1800s.
Appearance
As stated above, this dog is a big dog in a small body. She’s active and craves lots of games and outings with the family. Her ears stand straight up which is a benefit when it comes to ear cleaning. The more air circulation a dog’s ears get, the less oil and dirt builds up.
She has an unusual appearance by virtue of the fact that her coat makes her look like her body slopes backwards. It doesn’t – it’s just the way her coat appears.
Personality
If you’re looking for a dog who loves anyone and everyone on sight, the Schip may not be for you. She’s fine around family and friends … especially when introduced at an early age … but may be aloof around strangers.
The Schip is great with kids and even toddlers but as with all dogs, they should be monitored when together.
Health Concerns
Any purebred dog will have health issues and the Schip is no exception. Make sure to get all applicable health certificates from the breeder on both the parents and the pups.
They are susceptible to diseases like Legg-Calve-Perthes disease which affects the hip socket and ball joint, epilepsy and patellar luxation.
Trainability
Like most breeds, early training and sociability are the keys to a well-adjusted pooch. Start training him the moment he steps through your door as a puppy and continue throughout his life.
Enroll him in puppy kindergarten which will help train both of you and give him some early socialization with other dogs and dog owners.
Grooming Requirements
The Schip is a cinch to groom even though he has a double coat. Brush him once a week and that should keep the hair accumulation from getting away from you. He will shed heavily once or twice a year for about a month but a bath will help get rid of dead hair.
Regular baths aren’t needed as this little guy is typically clean and tidy unless he rolls in some smelly doggy perfume. Get him used to regular tooth brushing and nail trimming and you’re good to go.
Thinking About Adding A Schipperke To Your Family?
Please consider adopting before purchasing and please avoid purchasing an animal from a pet store. You can find purebred Schipperkes & mixes in need of good homes. Visit Petfinder Or Overstock Pet Adoption to search for a Schipperke in of adoption near you.
Reference Link: http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/schipperke
http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/schipperke
Image credit: Courtesy of Thomas & Dianne Jones via Flickr (CC by 2.0)