About the Breed
It appears that this breed has existed in Belgium for well over 300 years, although its precise ancestry is unknown. It has been suggested that it could be a miniature from of a black Belgian Shepherd Dog, or, alternatively, could have a spitz ancestry. The Schipperke was certainly very popular among shoemakers in Belgium during the seventeenth century. Such dogs were paraded wearing ornate collars made of brass, and possibly took part in the earliest specialist dog show ever held, when a Schipperke show was organized by the Belgian Guild of Workmen in 1690.
The Schipperke (‘Little Skipper’) is a well-known breed in the Netherlands, and particularly in the Louvain district. It was once used for guarding barges and riverboats, although it served a multitude of other purposes as wall. Perky and adaptable, with an inbred affection for canals and tow-horses, the Schipperke is becoming popular generally. It was not until 1885, when the Queen of the Belgians became interested in it, that it made any substantial headway. However, in 1887 it was imported in England and by 1890 the English Schipperke Club had been formed.
Schipperkes are usually black in colour, and their coat is easy to keep in top condition. These are hardy and affectionate dogs and make good family pets. They will benefit from a good daily walk, but prove to be quite happy in an urban environment.
Height 10-13 in (25-33 cm)
Weight 12-16 lb (5.4-7.3 kg)
Coat type/colour Coat harsh, short and smooth on the head, ears and leg, but frilled round the neck. Colour jet black but other whole colours permissible. Head foxy; ears small, erect; body muscular, tail docked very close.

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