| Country of origin: | Belgium |
| Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Herder, hunter, companion |
| Size: | 3–8kg (7–18lb), 22–33cm (9–13in) |
| Longevity: | 14 to 16 years |
| Exercise: | Moderate to active |
| Training: | Moderate; hard to keep challenged |
| Grooming: | Easy; sheds |
| Colors: | Black |
This compact, spitz-type breed originated in Belgium in the early 1500s and is probably related to the Pomeranian and German Spitz. The name is said to mean “little captain”, from the breed’s past as guard dogs and ratters on Flanders and Brabant canal barges. These are energetic companions, and although they respond well to training they can be aggressive around other dogs. The Schipperke’s build is muscular, with a deep chest and straight legs. The hard coat has a dense undercoat and a ruff around the neck, framing the typically fox-like face and pointed muzzle.