Schipperke

Šiperka

Schipperke – front view — Photo: Bingar1234, CC BY-SA 4.0, source

Schipperke – head — Photo: Lilly M, CC BY-SA 3.0, source

Schipperke – in motion — Photo: Cinvic, CC BY-SA 4.0, source

Key facts

FCI group	1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs)
Country of origin	Belgium
Weight	3–9 kg

Recognition features

Small, black, stocky, wolf-like dog with a wedge-shaped head
Distinct ruff, mane and culottes of longer hair
High-set tail; some dogs are born tailless or with a short tail; alert and inquisitive expression

Purpose

A small Belgian guard and companion dog from Brussels, renowned as a catcher of rats and mice.

History

The name means "little shepherd" in Flemish. The breed goes back to the 17th century, when Brussels craftsmen kept it and decorated their dogs with brass collars. The first standard dates from 1888 and Queen Marie-Henriette helped make it fashionable.

Coat

Abundant, harsh, straight coat over a soft undercoat; long ruff, mane and culottes; solid black only.

Similar breeds

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.