by Angie Pollock

Created on: September 10, 2009

Originating in Belgium, the Schipperke is thought by some to have been developed during the mid 16th century. Mistakenly referred to as being a Dutch breed, this unique breed has a mysterious and debatable history. The Schipperke is thought to be the breed type that rescued Prince William of Orange from an assassination attempt. There are no written records to credit the development of this breed but some believe it is a descendent of the earlier spitz dogs while others claim the Schipperke can claim ancestry to the Belgian Sheepdog, which is now extinct.

What is factually known can be dated back to the late 1800s. The first exhibition of the breed was in 1880 and was officially recognized 1886 by the Royal Schipperke Club of Brussels. The standard for the breed was established in 1904. The popularity of the breed expanded out of Belgium with the formation of the Schipperke Club of England in 1905. Kelso Kennels' owner, Ms. F. Isabel Ormiston, is accredited with being the pioneer of the breed in the United States. The Schipperke Club of America was established in 1929 and the breed is currently recognized by the AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC(GB), and KUSA.

The Schipperke has a fox-like appearance with a short and elongated body and small feet. The average height at the withers is 10 to 13 inches and is a light-weight dog averaging 12 to 18 pounds. Although most have a pure black coat which is standard in the US, there are other coat colors recognized in other countries. The coat is dense and will appear longer on the neck, shoulder area, chest, and the back of the hind legs. The coat needs regular grooming but doesn't require any special care. The head and chest is broad, skull is flat, and its most distinct feature is its docked tail. If the tail is left un-docked, it will curl up over the back like is seen with other spitz breeds.

Traditionally, the Schipperke was used in Belgium as a working dog to safeguard canal barges but it was also a popular pet. This breed earned its name for its duties on the canals as Schipperke is a Flemish word for "little captain" or "little skipper". Other translations include "little boatman" and "little corporal".

This breed is characterized as being affectionate and an exceptional watchdog. This is a very loyal breed and lives well with children. Though not an aggressive breed, they will protect their territory from intruders which requires good training to keep barking and howling under control. They can walk for many miles without tiring and need regular exercise. Its temperament is well-mannered with their families with proper training and is recommended as a faithful companion, watchdog, and house pet.

References:

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS, by Joan Palmer, copyright 2003.

THE ULTIMATE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS & DOG CARE, by Dr. Peter Larkin, Mike Stockman, copyright 2002.

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