Schipperke
Temperament:
The Schipperke combines the best qualities of a small, active dog with those of a sheepdog. Not only for families, but also for active singles and couples, this dog is therefore the right choice. Long walks and exciting explorations make the heart of the Schipperken beat faster. Because that satisfies his bright curiosity.
Characteristics
According to the breed standard, the Schipperke belongs to FCI group 1, the herding and driving dogs. Furthermore, it is assigned to Section 1 and is therefore considered a shepherd dog. The standard number of the breed is 83.
The exterior of the Schipperke resembles a small wolf. His shoulder height is about the same as his body length. This makes him look square.
The shoulder height of the Schipperke is between 28 and 33 centimeters in males. In females between 25 and 30 centimeters in height.
He has a pronounced forechest and a short, straight and strong back.
The face of the Schipperke is characterized by the dark brown, almond-shaped eyes and a short muzzle. This gives him a fox-like and very friendly face. His pointed, triangular ears show his attentive nature.
The tail is set high and pendulous. The outer coat is hard and shiny. The coat is black and has a dense undercoat. On the neck and paws it is slightly longer, so that these parts are somewhat more accentuated. The ideal weight of a Schipperke is between 3 and 9 kilograms.
The character of this dog breed is characterized by Willingness to learn and Activity out. These dogs love to be challenged and exercised. Both physically and mentally, the Schipperke wants to be challenged. Its essence is on the one hand vivid and curious and on the other hand patient and cautious.
Opposite strangers he is often reserved, while familiar people are greeted and treated very affectionately.
The sporty Schipperke has the hunting of his ancestors. That is why he is an enthusiastic Mouse and Rat Catcher. Towards other dogs he behaves socially and he has a special liking for horses. In dealing with children, he is characterized by patience and gentleness.
He is well educable and is open for trick training, or the 'Fetch!'. Since he tends to bark a lot and loudly, a focus should be placed especially here in the education. Otherwise, this can quickly lead to disputes with neighbors. However, if the Schipperke is trained in this area from the beginning, this habit can be very well controlled.
In addition, since this breed of dog is considered very intelligent it is good for training for the Rescue or tracking dog suitable. The Schipperke is also a very good Watchdog. With his barking he draws the attention of his master. He also defends the objects entrusted to him.
The Schipperke prefers to be out in the fresh air, and any terrain will do. Tree stumps and roots are overcome with a skilful jump and the little explorer also enjoys a short swim in the lake. The Schipperke also likes to use his barking frequently while walking, which speaks for his good self-confidence. This dog breed has an average life expectancy of 14 years.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
The diet of the Schipperke is generally very unproblematic. Only the amount of food should be taken care of. With his sweet doggy look, the Schipperke always manages to get people to drop a treat. Thereby he finds then also no end.
If the Schipperke gets too many treats, he can quickly become overweight. For this reason, you should also hide the cookies for your four-legged friend well. Because the Schipperke is a glutton. In addition, he is very intelligent and clever. So he likes to steal everything edible that can be found near him.
Two meals a day are recommended for this breed of dog, ideally consisting of 60 % of meat, 30 % of vegetables, and 10 % of rice. Your veterinarian will be happy to tell you what nutrients your dog needs and the best way to get them. He can determine the right diet for your dog depending on age, sex and size.
Schipperke care
The Schipperke is generally considered to be easy care dog breed. The coat must be due to the hard structure only little brushed be. Only during the change of coat at the seasons you should give your dog comb out once a week. Then he also hairs less. Whereby, however, it can be said that the hair loss in this breed is not particularly strong in principle. Baden you can also rinse your Schipperke. However, you should only use water to rinse it superficially if it gets a little dirty.
Keeping the Schipperke is also easy, as it is considered very adaptable. Thus he can be kept both in the apartment and in the country. However, it is important that you make sure that your dog is busy. He should always Sufficient physical and mental workloads gets.
Suitable accessories
As already described, the Schipperke is very eager to learn and intelligent. Therefore much is recommended Toy, for body and mind. You can also work with treat toys. But remember that the treats are not too fatty and healthy, so that your Schipperke does not gain weight.
Origin & History
The history of the Schipperke can be traced back to the 15th century. It originated in Belgium and is believed to be descended from the Leuvenaar black sheepdog breed. However, the Leuvenaar is nowadays already extinct. However, the assumption that the Schipperke descends from him is controversial. There is also evidence for a relationship to the Kleinspitz.
Especially in Belgium and the Netherlands the Schipperke was bred.
In the 17th century, this breed was particularly popular. Thus, even the Queen of Belgium, Marie Henriette, in 1885 a Schipperke. Its long tradition as Watchdog is also reflected in the fact that he is depicted in paintings that show the life of the past.
In addition, in the Dutch areas, it is also often associated with the Inland navigation in connection. There he was often present as a guard dog and escort on the ships. Especially useful here was his hunting instinct, as he used it to keep the rats off the ship.
Therefore, the name of the Schipperken is often also derived incorrectly via "schipers" and translated as boatsman. In fact, however, the name comes from the word "Scheperke" and means "little shepherd (-dog)".
The first breed standard of the Schipperke was established in 1888 by the Belgian breed club "Royal Schipperkes Club", after the breed had come to England in 1887.
