Non-Sporting Group · Purebred · The Little Black Devil — Belgium's fearless tailless barge dog with a fox face, boundless curiosity, and a personality twice its size
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Schipperke — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Schipperke — pronounced "SKIP-er-kee" and meaning "little captain" or "little boatman" in Flemish — is a small, intensely curious, jet-black dog of Belgian origin with a history stretching back at least to the 15th century. Originally bred as working dogs aboard the canal boats and barges of Belgium, Schipperkes served as ratters and watchdogs, guarding boats, barking alarm at strangers, and clearing the vessel of any vermin that might follow the cargo. Their compact size, agility, and fearless temperament were perfectly suited to life on the water, and their dense double coat protected them from damp, cold canal conditions.
The Schipperke is one of the few breeds that is traditionally shown tailless — either born without a tail (a natural bobtail trait present in some lines) or with the tail docked close to the body by tradition. Their distinctive silhouette — the mane-like ruff around the neck, sloping topline, and fox-like pointed face — is immediately recognizable and unlike any other small breed. Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium acquired a Schipperke in the 1880s, dramatically elevating the breed's status from working-class barge dog to fashionable companion. The AKC recognized the Schipperke in 1904. Today the breed's reputation for mischief, intelligence, and near-inexhaustible energy is legendary among its devoted fans.
Real Schipperkes — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Schipperkes are known for being energetic and loyal. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Schipperkes can be trained with patience and consistency, though they may occasionally test boundaries. With proper socialization they can do well with children, though supervision is always wise.
Schipperkes are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Schipperkes have a distinctive wiry, rough coat that benefits from hand-stripping to maintain its correct texture and weather-resistant properties. Clipping changes the coat texture over time and removes the protective outer layer.
Schipperkes are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Schipperkes are generally healthy for their size, though regular screening helps catch issues early. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Schipperke fits well with families or individuals who can provide moderate daily exercise and consistent companionship. They adapt reasonably well to various living situations as long as their exercise and social needs are met. Not ideal for owners away from home for long hours without a pet care solution in place.
Schipperkes need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a small-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Small-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Schipperke's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Schipperke is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Schipperke costs between $100–$180 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 12–15 year lifespan, a Schipperke typically costs between $8,000–$18,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Schipperkes have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Schipperke crosses.
Two bold, foxy-faced spitz-type small dogs — combining the Schipperke's barge-dog boldness with the Pomeranian's glamorous coat and lively personality.
Schipperke × Chihuahua. Tiny, fierce, enormously curious — two of the smallest and most self-assured breeds united in one compact package.
The Schipperke's bold curiosity with the Poodle's trainability and low-shed coat — clever, active, and entertaining in equal measure.
Two of the most intensely driven working breeds at very different sizes — the result is a highly intelligent, energetic dog that needs a job.
Schipperkes are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.