Schipperke Breed description: Character & Co

What are the typical characteristics of a Schipperke?

The Schipperke lives up to its reputation as a guardian. Once it has settled into a family, he protects it devotedly. The dog breed therefore makes a wonderful family dog and shows itself to be extremely patient and gentle, especially with children. In addition, the jock always wants to be involved in all activities. If the four-legged dog feels disadvantaged, it also lets this be known immediately.

According to the official standard, the four-legged friend is described as an excellent little watchdog that is bursting with vitality. In addition, the breed is particularly eager to learn and intelligent. Strangers, however, he eyes skeptically, if not even reserved. However, the Schipperke can be kept well with other pets.

The little four-legged friend is particularly curious and likes to go on exploratory tours. Therefore, it absolutely needs active people around him, who fulfill his inner urge to move. Their inherent hunting instinct and self-will drives them constantly forward, which is why you should pay attention to proper training already in puppyhood. If you are still somewhat inexperienced in dog keeping, you should definitely visit a dog school with a Schipperke.

What are the typical diseases of a Schipperke?

First and foremost, the small Belgian Shepherd is a robust and healthy dog breed. However, certain hereditary diseases, such as malignant hyperthermia, can also occur in the Schipperke.

The dog is also susceptible to, among other things:

• Obesity
• Metabolic disorders
• Diabetes mellitus
• Cataract

In Schipperke puppies, hereditary defects such as brachyuria can also occur in some cases. In this case the puppies are born with a shortened tail. Sometimes the defect even produces tailless puppies.

If you want to buy a Schipperke, you should definitely stay away from tailless puppies for animal welfare reasons.

Schipperke breeding - where, how, what

Today you can find reputable Schipperke breeders in many countries. You have a good chance to get a purebred Schipperke, because this breed has not been overbred yet. Health problems, with which especially fashion dogs have to fight, are relatively rare with the small shepherd dog. As a rule, a Schipperke costs around 1,200 euros upwards.

Nevertheless, you should always choose the breeder carefully. Ideally you should meet the breeder at least once, better twice. Be sure to let them show you the kennel and the animals. Make sure that you like the breeder and that he answers your questions correctly. If he shares his knowledge about the animals with you and also tells you something about the parents, it is usually a serious breeder.

Of course you can also get a Schipperke from a shelter. Many animals have been looking for a home for a long time and if you are sure that you want to actively take care of this dog for the next 13 years or more, nothing can go wrong.