The Schipperke: An overview of origin, appearance and character.
The Schipperke is a Belgian dog breed and belongs to FCI Group 1 of herding and driving dogs. With a height of 25-33 cm and a weight of 3-9 kg, it is a compact companion with a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
Origin and history of the Schipperke
The Schipperke originated in Belgium, where it is considered a national breed. Its name, “little boatman”, refers to its role as a guard dog and rat catcher on river barges. It is thought that the name derives from “Scheperke”, the Flemish name for a small sheepdog.
Coat and colors
The Schipperke has a hard, smooth coat with a soft undercoat. The preferred coat color is black, although the FCI also accepts other colors. Grooming is minimal and tail docking is now prohibited in Germany.
History and legends of the Schipperke
The history of the Schipperke dates back to the 15th century. Legends tell of a cobbler who is said to have cut off the tail of a thief’s dog, from which the custom of tail docking developed. The breed could be descended from old Belgian shepherd dogs or be a mixture of terrier and Pomeranian.
Popularity and development in the 17th century
In the 17th century, the Schipperke was popular with canal boatmen, merchants and craftsmen. They accompanied Sunday walks, adorned themselves with wide brass collars and were awarded prizes at exhibitions. The shipowner Reussens increased their popularity by using them as guard dogs on his ships.
Spread and development in the 19th century
In the 19th century, Queen Marie Henriette made the Schipperke even more popular. The breed spread to England and the USA, where the “Schipperke Club of America” was founded in 1929. Despite their use as domestic dogs, many Schipperkes retained their role as alert watchdogs.
Character and nature of the Schipperke
The Schipperke is a lively dog with a friendly and loyal character. Its curiosity and attentiveness make it a patient companion for children. Although he is an excellent guard dog, he defends his territory without aggression towards people.
Conclusion: An all-rounder with tradition.
With its fascinating history and charming nature, the Schipperke is a versatile companion. Its roots as a guard dog and rat catcher on river barges still shape its characteristics today. With its low grooming requirements and its size, which is also suitable for smaller homes, the Schipperke is not only a fascinating breed, but also an ideal family dog.
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