SKIPPER KEY DOG BREED FREE

He is robust, energetic and brave and is an ideal choice for those who desire the characteristics of a big dog in a compact package. The Schipperke, despite his small stature, is by no means a toy breed. In addition to their primary role as companions they have been used as search and rescue dogs, assistance dogs for the hearing impaired, and drug and bomb detection dogs. The breed was first shown and recognized in 1882. They were particularly favoured by the guildsmen in towns and by barge owners. It may not be possible to precisely define the development of the Schipperke but small black dogs of the type have been known in Belgium for at least 500 years. While the Schipperke shares many of the features of the Spitz family the more popular theory is that it is descended from the Belgian shepherd dogs. It has also been called Spitzke (little Spitz). Schipperke is believed by some to mean little captain, a reference to their popularity as companions, watchdogs and ratters on barges, others suggest that it is a corruption of the Flemish Scheperke meaning little shepherd. The Schipperke (pronounced Skipper-key) originated in Belgium but whether it is a small shepherd or of the Spitz family is a matter of continuing discussion, as is the name of the breed. Read more about the Schipperke on Dogster.The Schipperke is also known by the names: Little Munchkin. The first Schipperke came to America in the late 1800s, but the breed didn’t really catch on until the Schipperke Club of America was founded in 1929. Not just popular on boats, Schipperkes also worked with shoemakers and other shopkeepers across Belgium as guard dogs and ratters. Named after the Flemish word for “little skipper,” Schipperkes were bred by Belgian boat captains to guard unattended boats, keep rats away and provide companionship. During spring and fall shedding seasons, Schipperkes do shed, so have plenty of lint brushes handy. Their long, thick coats need regular brushing, but Schipperkes keep themselves fairly clean. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts and other eye problems.

SKIPPER KEY DOG BREED FREE

If you can allow them to run free in a controlled space, they will definitely have a blast.Ī healthy Schipperke can live as long as 15 years. They are naturally curious and independent, so always keep them on a leash in public. Once they realize everything is A-okay, they will loosen up and join the party. Because of this, they can seem a little reserved with new people. And if you happen to own a boat, this could be your ideal second mate. In spite of their size, they make excellent watchdogs. Used for hundreds of years to guard barges from thieves and rats, Schipperkes have a built-in protectiveness. Tirelessly active, they will happily keep pace with the most intense joggers.

They love playing games on the carpet, but they really love to run and play outside.

Small and friendly and polite, they make good use of small spaces, running in and out of rooms to satisfy their curiosity. Schipperkes are ideal for apartment living.

They get along famously with children and other pets, including cats, and they form strong bonds with their families. Loving and warm, they are eager to please, easy to train and somewhat feisty. Schipperkes combine a solid work ethic with a sense of fun. They move along with a smooth, nimble gait.

Their wedge-shaped heads have pointed ears and fox-like faces, and they have small, dark eyes that give off an inquisitive expression. These thick coats grow in several different lengths around the body, including a thick ruff around the neck. Schipperkes have small, cobby, square-built bodies covered in long, harsh coats that usually come in black, but can also be found in brown, tan and red.

Skipper key dog breed