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Schipperkes

Non-Sporting Group

Alert, intelligent and energetic

Schipperkes

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Breed Overview

This breed, known for its spitz-like appearance and spirited personality, makes an excellent companion for those who can match its energy and intelligence.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Small
  • Height 10-13 inches
  • Weight 10-16 pounds
  • Life Span 13-15 years
  • Coat Short, thick double coat
  • Color Typically black, but can also be found in shades of blue, chocolate, and cream
  • Grooming Regular brushing; sheds moderately
  • Temperament Curious, intelligent, energetic, and alert
  • Energy Level High; requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate to high; enjoys walks and active playtime
  • Trainability Intelligent but can be independent; responds well to consistent, positive reinforcement training
  • Socialization Important from an early age to manage their strong territorial instincts
  • Grooming Regular brushing; sheds moderately
  • Health Issues Generally healthy but prone to certain conditions like hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and eye problems
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Loyal, playful, protective; thrives with active families when properly trained and socialized
  • Suitable Living Space Adapts well to apartments and houses with regular exercise and engagement

About the Breed

The Schipperke is a small breed with a big personality. Originally bred in Belgium for hunting and guarding, they are well-suited to various activities and dog sports. They are excellent watchdogs and companions, known for their loyalty and spirited nature.

History of the Breed

The Schipperke originated in Belgium in the early 16th century. Initially bred for hunting and barge guarding, they were popular among the working class, especially in Brussels. The name “Schipperke” loosely translates to “little captain” in Flemish, referring to their role as guardians on barges.

Belgium

Fun Facts About the Schipperke

What To Expect When Caring For a Schipperke

Health

Lifespan: Typically live between 13 and 15 years. Common Health Issues: Hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Grooming

Coat: Short, thick double coat that sheds moderately. Grooming Needs: Regular brushing is required, more frequently during shedding seasons.

Exercise

Needs: High. Daily walks and play sessions are essential. Activities: They enjoy activities like agility, obedience, and even herding trials.

Training

Training: Intelligent and eager to learn, but can be stubborn. Consistent, positive reinforcement techniques work best. Socialization: Early socialization is important to prevent them from becoming overly suspicious of strangers.

Nutrition

Diet: A well-balanced diet suited to their age, size, and energy level. Feeding Schedule: Regular feeding schedule, usually divided into two meals per day.

The Schipperke is a charming, energetic, and loyal breed, perfect for active individuals or families who can provide them with the attention, exercise, and training they require. Their unique personality and manageable size make them an excellent choice for a wide range of homes.

Schipperke Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Schipperke, while generally a healthy and robust breed, is prone to several specific health issues. Potential and current owners need to be aware of these to ensure the best care for their pets.

Description: This condition involves the degeneration of the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint), leading to hip joint pain and limping. It can be managed or corrected with surgery.

Description: This is a rare genetic disorder affecting the dog's ability to break down certain molecules. It can lead to severe neurological symptoms.

Description: Schipperkes may be prone to epilepsy, a disorder that causes seizures. This can often be managed with medication.

Description: This is a group of degenerative diseases affecting the retina's photoreceptor cells, eventually leading to blindness.

Description: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and coat problems. It's typically manageable with medication.

Description: This refers to the dislocation of the kneecap, which can cause pain and lameness. Severity varies, and treatment can range from lifestyle adjustments to surgery.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Description: This condition involves the degeneration of the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint), leading to hip joint pain and limping. It can be managed or corrected with surgery.

Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MPS IIIA)

Description: This is a rare genetic disorder affecting the dog's ability to break down certain molecules. It can lead to severe neurological symptoms.

Epilepsy

Description: Schipperkes may be prone to epilepsy, a disorder that causes seizures. This can often be managed with medication.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Description: This is a group of degenerative diseases affecting the retina's photoreceptor cells, eventually leading to blindness.

Hypothyroidism

Description: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and coat problems. It's typically manageable with medication.

Patellar Luxation

Description: This refers to the dislocation of the kneecap, which can cause pain and lameness. Severity varies, and treatment can range from lifestyle adjustments to surgery.

Regular veterinary check-ups, along with these specific tests, can help in early detection and management of these conditions, contributing to a healthier, more comfortable life for a Schipperke.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Schipperkes

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Schipperke?

Caring for a Schipperke, like any dog, involves various expenses that can add up over a year. The annual cost can vary depending on several factors such as your location, the individual needs of your dog, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

A purebred Schipperke puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$600 - 1200

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Schipperke enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food tailored to their size and energy level.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Schipperkes.

Regular brushing is required, more frequently during shedding seasons.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Schipperkes require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimate Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Schipperke's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Schipperke will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$35 - 70

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2185 - $4970

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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