Schipperke – Small Belgians with a Big Character
A few years ago, two little Belgians came to live with me: Louis and Mats, two Schipperkes. Until then, I had little experience with this breed and never imagined how much they would captivate me. By now, I can hardly imagine life without these independent, clever, and lively dogs.
In this short article, I want to introduce the breed – their history, their character, their suitability for dog sports – and share my own experiences with Louis and Mats.
From Canal Boats to Cobbler Workshops
The history of the Schipperke goes back to the 17th century. In the towns of Flanders, they worked as rat catchers and guard dogs, on canal boats as well as in workshops and warehouses. They kept supplies free from vermin and reliably alerted their owners to any visitors.
Their name is often derived from the Flemish word for “little boatman.” Another theory traces it back to “little shepherd dog,” hinting at a possible connection to Belgian herding breeds.
In the working-class districts of Brussels, they were known as “Schoenlapperke,” the cobbler’s dog. Many craftsmen kept these alert little dogs in their workshops.
This origin as a working dog for ordinary people still shapes the breed today. Schipperkes are not lap dogs. They are little workers.
The Royal Breakthrough
In 1885, Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium discovered the breed at a dog show in Brussels and was delighted. Her affection suddenly made the small black dogs fashionable. The rat catcher of craftsmen and canal boatmen became a trendy companion, spreading quickly beyond Belgium.
Three years later, Belgian breeders founded the first Schipperke club and established the first breed standard in 1888. The characteristics described then – pure black coat, prominent ruff, erect triangular ears, and compact build – continue to define the breed’s appearance today.
Character: A Big Dog in a Small Body
Anyone meeting a Schipperke for the first time is often surprised at how much dog there is in such a small body. Centuries as working and guard dogs have shaped a character that should not be underestimated.
Alert and attentive. Louis notices every change in his surroundings immediately. Whether a strange noise in the garden or a new object in the hallway, nothing escapes him. This is not nervousness, but careful observation.
Intelligent and strong-willed. Schipperkes learn quickly – sometimes too quickly. Mats picks up new exercises in agility or obedience often after just a few repetitions and gets bored just as fast if there is no progress.
Loyal but not submissive. Their bond with their family is close. At the same time, Schipperkes have a healthy dose of independence. They cooperate willingly – but only when they understand the purpose. Blind obedience goes against their nature.
Hunting instinct. This aspect is often underestimated. Louis and Mats have a strong hunting instinct, rooted in their past as rat catchers. No mouse is safe in the garden, and on walks, especially in the early stages, owners must stay alert.
Curious. Schipperkes want to explore everything. New sounds, smells, or objects immediately attract their attention. This curiosity makes them vigilant companions but can also be challenging in unfamiliar situations.
Love of activity. Small bodies, big energy. Schipperkes love being active – running, playing, and performing tasks. When engaged properly, they become happy, focused, and lively dogs.
Schipperkes in Agility
Schipperkes have excellent qualities for agility sports. They are agile, eager to learn, and have a natural drive to move, which suits them perfectly on the course.
Louis is now a senior but still runs the course with enthusiasm, naturally adapted to his fitness. The joy of working together remains undiminished. The much younger Mats approaches every course with an energy reminiscent of his restless ancestors on canal boats. Thanks to his quick mind, he handles complex sequences of obstacles with ease.
This shared sporting activity provides exactly the physical and mental stimulation that Schipperkes need. An under-stimulated Schipperke will find its own entertainment, which is rarely in the owner’s interest.
Care and Training
Several years with Louis and Mats have taught me a lot about keeping this breed. A few key points I would pass on to anyone considering a Schipperke:
- Consistency with tact. Schipperkes respect clear rules, but drill does not work on them. They need leadership that respects their independence while remaining consistent. Patience and positive reinforcement achieve far more than harshness.
- Stimulation is essential. Whether agility, obedience, or other dog sports – Schipperkes need a task. They were bred for an active life. A Schipperke taken only on short walks three times a day will find its own entertainment.
- Early socialisation. The breed’s natural alertness can turn into excessive wariness without proper socialisation. Early exposure to different people, dogs, and situations lays the foundation for a confident adult dog.
- Coat and grooming. The dense black coat with its distinctive ruff is relatively easy to maintain, but Schipperkes shed considerably. During coat changes, having a brush at hand is essential.
Conclusion
Schipperkes are not dogs for everyone. They challenge their owners, surprise them, and sometimes drive them to frustration. In Louis and Mats, the qualities of their ancestors live on: the vigilance of the canal boat dog, the cleverness of the rat catcher, and the loyalty of the family companion.
Anyone considering this breed should honestly ask themselves whether they have the time, patience, and commitment to meet a Schipperke’s needs. These dogs require meaningful activity and people who view their independence as a feature, not a flaw.