A Schipperke is a grand little dog.  A large dog in a small package.  They are intelligent, protective of “their” humans, home, and things given to them to guard; a fairly healthy breed, and quite a clean dog.  They are very cat-like, so don’t even try to keep them off the furniture.  They are very intelligent and should have you trained in no time.  Don’t let their “cuteness” keep you from training them in the house rules and manners..

They are double coated, so yes, Martha, they do shed.  As all dogs, they do shed somewhat throughout the year with two heavy sheds in the Spring and late Fall.  If you keep a comb handy you can control the shedding simply by combing them through whenever you see a “clump” of hair ready to drop.  And believe me, you will not believe how much undercoat they actually have!

They are good with children if raised with them.  However, this is a breed who will not tolerate abuse from a child, so make sure your children know how to respect animals.  Also, discipline should be consistent as with any dog.  Do not strike this breed with your hand.  This teaches them only to retaliate.

The book pictured is a very good guide to the first time Schipperke owner in all aspects of the breed as a pet companion.  I recommend anyone thinking about choosing this breed and anyone who has chosen this breed read a copy.  This booklet was put together by the parent club’s rescue people and is a wealth of information on the breed.  I have found that people who profess not to be “dog” people have chosen this breed and love it because of its versatility.  

As with many small dogs, they can be a bit difficult to housebreak.  I have found that utilizing a dog door is a great saver.  Schips tend to be very fast paced, so zooming out of the dog door during one of their daily races around the house allows them to “remember” what the outside is actually for!!

Schips should always be confined within a securely fenced area unless you have them on a leash.  Their curiousity will lure them to explore, and unless you have a solid recall, they usually return only on their own terms.  I urge all my puppy people to first train a solid recall.  It may save your Schip's life.  Basic obedience training is very much encouraged, not only for its safety in responding immediately to your commands, but also for the bond you will forge with your puppy that will last a lifetime.

Schips can be very destructive if left to their own devices and unconfined while you are away.  Crate training your Schipperke is not cruel, it keeps them safe while you are gone, and saves you money on the items that might be used for their entertainment until you return.

The following delves into the health issues that this breed might have.

Should Read

Yes, Schipperkes do come in a few colors, however, no other color is qualified to show in the United States.  Europe and other parts of the world do sport colored Schips.

Please note, this booklet is currently out of print.  The parent Schipperke Club is revising a breed book at this time.