If you’ve never heard of a Schipperke (pronounced “SKIP-er-kee”), you’re not alone. If you’ve seen one and thought it was a tiny black fox crossed with a very opinionated Spitz, you’re closer than you think. And if you’ve owned one and describe it as “a large dog’s personality crammed into a 5–7 kg body that will absolutely run your household if you let it” — you already know exactly what this breed is about.
The Schipperke is a small Belgian breed that has been earning its nickname “little black devil” for over 500 years. Originally bred as a watchdog and rat catcher on the canal barges of Flanders, this is a dog with a fox-like face, an unmistakable silhouette (broad shoulders, narrow hips, often no tail), and enough energy, curiosity, and sheer nerve to keep any household on its toes.
In Australia, the Schipperke is an ANKC-recognised breed with dedicated breeders across multiple states. It’s not a common dog — you won’t see them at every dog park — but those who know the breed tend to become lifelong converts. This guide covers everything: temperament (brace yourself), health, grooming, the barking question everyone asks, what they actually cost in Australia, and whether this bold little Belgian is the right dog for you.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | ANKC Group 7 — Non Sporting (FCI Group 1 — Sheepdogs; AKC Non-Sporting) |
| Origin | Belgium (Flanders), 1600s; possibly earlier |
| Also Known As | Little Captain, Little Black Devil, Spitske, Belgian Barge Dog |
| Height (Male) | 28–33 cm (11–13 inches) |
| Height (Female) | 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) |
| Weight | 3–9 kg (7–20 lb); typically 5–7 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years; some exceed 17+ |
| Coat | Medium-length double coat; harsh outer, soft undercoat; distinctive ruff and cape |
| Colours | Black (standard); cream/blonde rare; other colours debated — see Colours section |
| Shedding | Moderate; heavy seasonal coat blows 1–2 times yearly |
| Temperament | Alert, curious, fearless, mischievous, loyal, independent, vocal |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate-high for their size — 30–60 minutes daily plus mental stimulation |
| Watchdog Ability | EXCELLENT — alert, vocal, suspicious of strangers; too small for guarding |
| Good with Kids | Yes — adores family children; may snap if handled roughly by very young children |
| Apartment Suitable | Yes, with caveats — small size suits apartments; barking may not |
History & Origins
The Schipperke is one of Belgium’s oldest breeds, with records dating back to at least the 1400s, when a monk first described a small black dog resembling the breed. The name “Schipperke” is Flemish, and its meaning is debated. The popular translation is “little captain” or “little boatman” (from “schipper” meaning skipper), reflecting the breed’s long association with canal barges. However, in the Leuven and Brussels dialect, “scheper” means shepherd, making an equally valid translation “little shepherd.” Both descriptions fit: these dogs worked on barges and guarded shops, but they also descend from a 40-pound black shepherd dog called the Leuvenaar, which is believed to be the common ancestor of both the Schipperke and the Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael).
In 1690, guild workers in Brussels held what may be the first recorded specialty dog show, featuring Schipperkes. By the late 1800s, the breed had caught the eye of Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium, who fell for a Schipperke at a dog show in 1885. Royal patronage sent the breed’s popularity soaring across Europe.
The breed arrived in America in 1888 and was recognised by the AKC in 1904. During World War II, the Belgian Resistance reportedly used Schipperkes to run messages between hideouts — the occupying forces apparently didn’t suspect the small black dogs.
DNA studies have confirmed the Schipperke’s close relationship to the Spitz family of breeds, including the Pomeranian. In Australia, the breed is recognised by the ANKC in Group 7 (Non Sporting), with active breed clubs in Victoria and NSW and dedicated breeders across multiple states. The Schipperke Club of Victoria and the Schipperke Association of NSW support the breed community in Australia.
Temperament & Personality
The Schipperke’s temperament is its defining feature, and it is not what you’d expect from a dog that weighs 5–7 kg. This is a confident, fearless, endlessly curious dog that genuinely does not know it’s small. They investigate everything. They alert to everything. They have opinions about everything. If you want a quiet, easygoing lapdog, the Schipperke will bewilder and exhaust you.
With their family, Schipperkes are deeply affectionate and loyal. They bond strongly with their people and love being involved in every household activity. They are excellent with children — playful, patient, and tireless. Their small size makes them less intimidating for young children, though very small children should be supervised, as the Schipperke can snap if handled roughly or startled.
With strangers, the picture changes. Schipperkes are naturally reserved and suspicious, which is exactly what made them effective watchdogs for centuries. They will bark to alert, position themselves between their family and the stranger, and take their time warming up. This isn’t aggression — it’s centuries of selective breeding for vigilance.
Intelligence is high, but so is independence. The Schipperke will learn commands quickly and then decide, on a case-by-case basis, whether following them is in its best interest. They are famously mischievous — the “little black devil” nickname exists for good reason. They will explore, escape, steal food, dig, and generally find creative ways to entertain themselves if you don’t provide stimulation.
Yes. This is not a quiet breed. Schipperkes were bred to alert, and they take this job seriously — every delivery driver, passing pedestrian, leaf blowing in the wind, and suspicious noise will be announced. The bark is sharp and persistent. Barking can be managed with training, but it cannot be eliminated. If you or your neighbours have low noise tolerance, or if you live in an apartment with thin walls, this is a genuine consideration. Be honest with yourself about this before committing to the breed.
Generally yes, especially if raised together. They typically get along well with cats and other dogs in the household. However, their history as rat catchers means they retain a prey drive for small animals — birds, rodents, reptiles, and small outdoor wildlife will be chased. A Schipperke should always be on a lead or in a secure area outdoors, because they will absolutely dart after a squirrel or bird without a second thought.
Not inherently aggressive, but they are fearless and protective for their size. An unsocialised or poorly trained Schipperke can become snappy, overly territorial, and difficult with strangers. Early socialisation is important to ensure their natural wariness doesn’t tip into problematic behaviour. They may also snap if startled or handled roughly, which is common in many small breeds.
Both are small Spitz-type breeds with big personalities, but they differ significantly. Pomeranians are more openly affectionate and attention-seeking, with a more demanding grooming coat. Schipperkes are more independent, have a stronger watchdog instinct, and are generally more robust and athletic. The Schipperke was a working dog (ratting, guarding); the Pomeranian was bred primarily as a companion. Schipperkes require less grooming but bark more purposefully. If you want a small, spunky dog that’s more independent and working-oriented, the Schipperke is the better fit; if you want a dedicated cuddler, the Pomeranian may suit better.
The Schipperke is genetically part of the Spitz family, so the comparison depends on which Spitz breed you mean. Compared to a Japanese Spitz, the Schipperke is smaller, darker (usually all black vs all white), more independent, and has a stronger watchdog drive. Japanese Spitz are generally friendlier with strangers. Both are intelligent and can be stubborn. The Schipperke’s coat is lower maintenance than most Spitz breeds.
Health & Genetic Conditions
The Schipperke is a generally healthy and long-lived breed. Their landrace working heritage and relatively small breeding population have kept them reasonably free of the severe genetic problems seen in some more popular breeds. However, there are conditions to be aware of.
Prevalence
MPS IIIB is a lysosomal storage disease caused by a mutation in the NAGLU gene — and it occurs exclusively in Schipperkes, making it the most breed-defining inherited condition in the world for this breed. [Wikipedia – Schipperke] The carrier frequency in the breed population is estimated at 15–20%, though the rate of fully affected dogs (who must inherit two copies of the mutation) is much lower thanks to increasing DNA screening. The disease is progressive, incurable, and fatal — typically within 1–3 years of symptom onset. A DNA test developed by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has been available since 2003.
Symptoms
Clinical signs appear in young to middle-aged dogs, typically between 2 and 4 years of age. Early signs include rear leg weakness, incoordination, and difficulty navigating obstacles like stairs. The condition progresses to involve all four limbs and often causes vision loss. It closely resembles Tay-Sachs and Gaucher’s disease in humans.
Treatment Cost (AUD)
No treatment or cure exists. Supportive management can be provided but does not alter the course of the disease. DNA testing of both parents before breeding costs around $100–$150 per dog and completely prevents affected puppies from being produced. [petinsurance.com.au]
Prevention
Ask your breeder for MPS IIIB DNA test certificates for both parents confirming they are clear, or that only a carrier-to-clear pairing has been used. This is the single most important genetic test in the breed — no reputable Schipperke breeder should be unable to provide this documentation.
Prevalence
Patellar luxation is identified as the Schipperke’s primary orthopaedic concern, and the breed has a higher-than-average risk for the condition among small breeds. [Wikipedia – Schipperke] The OFA recommends patellar evaluation for all Schipperke breeding dogs at 1 year of age or older. Without correction in severe cases, the condition leads to progressive arthritis and permanent joint damage.
Symptoms
A “skipping” gait where the dog suddenly holds a hind leg up for a few steps before placing it back down is the hallmark early sign. More advanced cases involve continuous lameness, a crouching stance, and evident discomfort when the leg is extended. Both hind legs can be affected.
Treatment Cost (AUD)
Mild cases managed conservatively with anti-inflammatories and weight control cost $300–$1,000/year. Surgical correction for moderate to severe luxation runs $2,500–$5,000 per knee. [petinsurance.com.au]
Prevention
Ask your breeder for OFA patellar evaluation results on both parents. Keeping your Schipperke at a lean body weight reduces stress on the kneecaps, and discouraging repetitive jumping from height protects the joints long term.
Prevalence
LCP is recognised as one of the three core health conditions of concern in the Schipperke breed by The Schipperke Club (UK). [The Schipperke Club] It involves disruption to the blood supply to the head of the femur, causing bone degeneration and collapse — most commonly appearing before a dog’s first birthday. A hereditary component is suspected given its higher incidence across several small and terrier breeds including Schipperkes.
Symptoms
Pain and lameness in a hind leg in a dog under 18 months of age is the key presentation. Most affected dogs show signs before their first birthday, and the condition worsens progressively if untreated, leading to severe inflammation and arthritis in the hip joint.
Treatment Cost (AUD)
Surgical removal of the femoral head (FHNE) is the only effective treatment, typically costing $2,000–$4,500 AUD. [petinsurance.com.au] With appropriate post-operative physiotherapy, the prognosis is very good and most dogs regain near-normal function. Dogs confirmed affected should not be bred from.
Prevention
No DNA test currently exists. Hip radiographs from 9 months of age can screen for early changes. Ask your breeder specifically about the history of LCP in their lines and in any stud dog used.
Prevalence
Idiopathic epilepsy occurs in Schipperkes at a higher-than-average rate compared to the general dog population, and a hereditary component is suspected — though the pattern of transmission remains unclear and no genetic test yet exists. [The Schipperke Club] A longitudinal research study at the University of Helsinki is ongoing to characterise the genetics. The breed club stresses the condition affects only a small percentage of Schipperkes, and most dogs respond well to anticonvulsant medication.
Symptoms
Seizures ranging from brief absence episodes to full tonic-clonic convulsions (collapse, paddling, loss of bladder/bowel control) are the primary manifestation. Seizures typically begin between 1–5 years of age in idiopathic cases. After a seizure, dogs may be temporarily disoriented, wobbly, or excessively hungry — known as the post-ictal phase.
Treatment Cost (AUD)
Anticonvulsant medication runs $50–$200/month depending on which drug is used and the dose required. [petinsurance.com.au] Periodic blood monitoring to check drug levels and organ function adds to the ongoing cost. Most dogs with well-controlled epilepsy live normal lifespans.
Prevention
No genetic test is available. Avoid breeding from any dog that has experienced seizures, and ask your breeder whether epilepsy has appeared in the family lines of both parents.
Prevalence
PRA is a documented inherited condition in Schipperkes, with the breed noted as more likely than the average dog to develop this progressive retinal degeneration. [Towner Animal Health Clinic – Schipperke] Early symptoms typically appear between 3 and 5 years of age. A DNA test is available, and dogs confirmed as affected should not be used for breeding.
Symptoms
Night blindness is the first sign — a dog that hesitates in low light, bumps into furniture after dark, or is reluctant to go outside at night. This progresses gradually to daytime vision impairment and eventually complete blindness. The condition is painless and most dogs adapt well as vision declines.
Treatment Cost (AUD)
No treatment exists. CAER eye examination costs $150–$300 per visit. [OFA – CAER] DNA testing of breeding dogs prevents affected puppies from being produced when used correctly. Managing a blind Schipperke at home involves environmental consistency rather than significant financial cost.
Prevention
Ask your breeder for PRA DNA test clearance on both parents, and for annual CAER eye examination results. Annual eye checks from 2 years of age allow early detection before significant vision loss develops.
Prevalence
Hypothyroidism — most commonly caused by autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland — is a recognised endocrine condition in Schipperkes, with the breed noted as predisposed. [petMD – Schipperke] The Schipperke Club confirms thyroid testing is one of the available health screens recommended for the breed. OFA thyroid evaluation of breeding stock helps reduce the hereditary component over time.
Symptoms
Weight gain without a change in diet, lethargy, a dull or thinning coat, skin darkening, cold intolerance, and in some cases infertility. Because Schipperkes are naturally active and curious, unexplained lethargy or sudden weight gain in an otherwise healthy dog is a meaningful early warning sign worth investigating promptly.
Treatment Cost (AUD)
Blood testing to diagnose hypothyroidism costs $80–$200. [petinsurance.com.au] Daily oral thyroxine supplementation is inexpensive — typically $20–$60/month — and most dogs return to normal energy, weight, and coat quality within a few months of starting treatment. Medication is lifelong but the condition is very manageable.
Prevention
OFA thyroid evaluation is recommended for all breeding dogs. Annual wellness blood panels from 4–5 years of age allow early detection before clinical signs become obvious and entrenched.
Lifespan & Longevity
The Schipperke is a long-lived breed, with a typical lifespan of 12 to 16 years. A UK Kennel Club survey found a median lifespan of 13 years, with about 20% living to 15 years or more. The oldest recorded Schipperke reached approximately 17.5 years, and there are anecdotal reports of individuals living to 18–19 years.
This longevity is a genuine advantage of the breed. For a dog with this much personality, you’re looking at a long-term companion who will be part of your life for well over a decade.
| Life Stage | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Puppy (0–12 months) | Socialisation (essential to prevent excessive wariness); basic obedience; crate training; dental care habits; fully grown by 6–8 months; mature mentally by 1–2 years |
| Adult (1–10 years) | Maintain exercise and mental stimulation; annual vet checks; dental care (critical for small breeds); weight management; ongoing training reinforcement |
| Senior (10+ years) | Twice-yearly vet visits; joint supplements if needed; dental monitoring; watch for thyroid changes, vision/hearing loss; adapt exercise to energy levels; softer bedding |
Grooming & Coat Care
One of the Schipperke’s practical advantages is that grooming is relatively low-maintenance compared to many similar-sized breeds. The coat is a medium-length double coat with a harsh, weather-resistant outer layer and a soft, dense undercoat. The distinctive Schipperke silhouette comes from the ruff (longer fur around the neck), cape (across the shoulders), and culottes (longer fur on the back of the thighs). Down the middle of the back, the coat lies flat.
The coat is naturally waterproof and dirt-resistant. A good shake after getting wet and the Schipperke is nearly dry. Regular baths are rarely needed unless the dog has rolled in something unpleasant.
Do Schipperkes Shed?
Yes, they shed. Schipperkes blow their undercoat once or twice a year in a dramatic event that owners fondly call “blowing coat.” During these periods (typically lasting 2–3 weeks), the dog will shed enormous quantities of undercoat and may look temporarily patchy. Daily brushing during coat blows is essential. Outside of these periods, shedding is moderate and manageable with weekly brushing.
Are Schipperkes Hypoallergenic?
No. Schipperkes have a double coat and shed regularly, including heavy seasonal blows. They are not hypoallergenic. If allergies are a concern, this is not the breed for you.
Schipperke Colours: The Black Question and Beyond
The standard Schipperke colour is solid black — jet black, all over. This is the breed’s most iconic and common colour by far. However, Schipperkes can also be cream (sometimes called blonde), and very rarely appear in chocolate/brown or other whole colours. Blue Schipperkes (a dilute of black) and red or apricot Schipperkes are occasionally advertised but are not accepted in most breed standards. The ANKC standard follows the FCI standard, which accepts black as the breed colour.
If you see “blue,” “chocolate,” “red,” or “apricot” Schipperke puppies being marketed at premium prices, exercise caution. These colours, while they do occur genetically, are not standard and may indicate breeding priorities focused on novelty colour rather than health and temperament. A reputable breeder will prioritise MPS IIIB testing, health, and temperament over coat colour.
| Grooming Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coat Brushing | Weekly; daily during coat blow | Slicker brush or pin brush; undercoat rake during blows; coat is naturally dirt-resistant |
| Bathing | Only when needed | Waterproof coat dries quickly; over-bathing strips natural oils; rarely needed |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–4 weeks | Small dogs on soft surfaces may not wear nails naturally; keep short |
| Teeth Brushing | Daily (ideally) | Small breeds highly prone to dental disease; daily brushing is the gold standard |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Check for redness or debris; erect ears generally have fewer infection issues |
Exercise Needs
Don’t let the small size fool you. The Schipperke was a working dog — a ratter, a watchdog, a barge companion that spent its days active and engaged. Modern Schipperkes retain that energy and need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily, plus mental stimulation. Without it, they will create their own entertainment, and you probably won’t like it. Destructive chewing, digging, and excessive barking are the classic symptoms of a bored Schipperke.
Walks, play sessions, fetch, puzzle toys, and training games all work well. Schipperkes also excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, rally, and Dances with Dogs — their intelligence and athleticism make them natural competitors. Many Australian Schipperke breeders are active in these sports.
The Schipperke’s prey drive means they should always be on lead or in a securely fenced area outdoors. They are escape artists — creative, determined, and willing to squeeze through surprisingly small gaps. Fencing should be secure and regularly checked.
Can Schipperkes Live in Apartments?
Yes, their small size makes them physically suitable for apartment living. However, the barking is the main concern. A Schipperke in an apartment will alert to every hallway noise, every doorbell in the building, and every passing dog. If you can manage the barking through training and sufficient exercise and stimulation, apartment life can work. If you can’t — or if your building has strict noise rules — it may not.
Training Guide
Schipperkes are highly intelligent and learn commands quickly. The challenge isn’t their ability to learn — it’s their willingness to comply. This is an independent breed that was never bred for blind obedience. They will learn what you teach them, assess the situation, and then decide whether following through is worth their while.
Positive reinforcement is essential. Schipperkes respond well to treats, play, and praise, and they respond very poorly to harsh correction. Physical punishment or intimidation will damage your relationship with a Schipperke and make training harder, not easier.
Keep training sessions short, varied, and engaging. Repetitive drills bore a Schipperke quickly, and a bored Schipperke is a non-compliant Schipperke. Make it a game, and you’ll get much further.
Training Difficulty
Training difficulty: 5 out of 10 for experienced small-breed owners; 7 out of 10 for first-timers. They’re not difficult to train because they’re unintelligent — quite the opposite. They’re difficult because they’re clever enough to test boundaries and independent enough to ignore commands they find unnecessary.
Bark Training: Start Early
Given the breed’s vocal tendencies, teaching a “quiet” command from puppyhood is important. You won’t eliminate barking entirely, but you can teach the dog when barking is and isn’t appropriate. Reward quiet behaviour, redirect alert barking calmly, and never yell at a barking Schipperke — they interpret shouting as you joining in.
| Age | Training Focus |
|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | Socialisation (expose to people, dogs, environments, sounds); crate training; name recognition; begin “quiet” command early; house training; handling exercises for vet visits and grooming |
| 4–6 months | Basic obedience (sit, stay, come, leave it); lead training; continue socialisation; redirect prey-drive behaviour; impulse control games |
| 6–12 months | Reinforce recall (critical — prey drive makes off-lead recall unreliable); adolescent independence testing; continue bark management; introduce dog sports if interested |
| 1+ years | Ongoing reinforcement; advanced tricks and sports; mental stimulation remains essential; mature temperament settles in by 1–2 years |
Cost of Ownership in Australia
The Schipperke is an ANKC-recognised breed with established breeders across Australia. While not as common as some breeds, availability is reasonable, and puppies are regularly advertised through Dogzonline.com.au and breed club networks.
Purchase Price
Schipperke puppies from ANKC-registered breeders in Australia typically cost $1,500–$3,000+ AUD. Puppies from champion bloodlines, imported genetics, or with show potential may command higher prices. All reputable breeders should provide ANKC registration, microchipping, vaccinations, vet health certificates, and MPS IIIB DNA testing status.
Australian Breeders
Start your search at Dogzonline.com.au, which lists ANKC-registered Schipperke breeders by state. Notable Australian breeders include Beadale (South Australia, 20+ years, internationally renowned, ANKC/FCI/AKC judge), Monterrez (NSW, established 1993 in UK, Australian since 2006, breeds both tailed and natural bobtails, MPS IIIB clear lines), Hapipet (breeding since 1998, multiple Grand Champions, uses ANKC standard), Adorin (Victoria, active in conformation, agility, Dances with Dogs, rally obedience; past president of Schipperke Club of Victoria; all stock MPS IIIB tested), Ebonjet (breeds both cream and black from English and NZ bloodlines), and Breogan (over 40 years experience, specialty winners).
Breed clubs: The Schipperke Club of Victoria and the Schipperke Association of NSW are the main Australian breed clubs and excellent starting points for breed information, breeder referrals, and events.
Schipperke Rescue in Australia
Breed-specific rescue for Schipperkes in Australia is limited due to the breed’s rarity. General small-breed rescues and state-based rescue organisations may occasionally have Schipperkes or Schipperke crosses. Adoption fees typically range from $300–$700 AUD.
Ongoing Annual Costs
| Expense | Annual Estimate (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Dog Food (small breed) | $500–$900 | Small dog = lower food costs; high-quality kibble formulated for small breeds |
| Veterinary Care (routine) | $300–$600 | Annual check, vaccines, parasite prevention; dental assessment important |
| Pet Insurance | $350–$800 | Covers patella, Legg-Perthes, emergencies; recommended |
| Grooming | $50–$200 | Mostly home grooming; occasional professional groom optional |
| Dental Care | $400–$1,000 | Professional clean every 1–2 years; daily home brushing reduces frequency |
| Training / Activities | $200–$500 | Puppy school, obedience classes, agility; mental stimulation essential |
| Equipment & Toys | $100–$300 | Puzzle toys, leads, beds, harness; small-breed sizing = lower equipment costs |
| TOTAL (first year) | $3,500–$6,500+ | Including purchase price |
| TOTAL (ongoing per year) | $1,500–$3,500 | Dental care is often the largest variable cost for small breeds |
Is the Schipperke Right for You?
You want a small dog with a big, bold, independent personality. You enjoy a dog that’s curious, active, and always entertaining. You can handle barking and are prepared to train a “quiet” command from day one. You have time for 30–60 minutes of daily exercise and mental stimulation. You want a loyal, devoted companion that bonds deeply. You appreciate a low-maintenance grooming routine (outside of coat blows). You have secure fencing and are vigilant about leads — this dog will chase prey and exploit escape routes.
You need a quiet dog. This is non-negotiable — Schipperkes bark, and no amount of training will make them silent. You want a dog that loves everyone it meets — Schipperkes are reserved with strangers. You want a reliably obedient dog that follows every command without question. You are away from home for long periods — they do not cope well with being left alone and can become destructive. You have very young children who may handle the dog roughly — Schipperkes can snap if startled.
Some Schipperkes are born naturally tailless (natural bobtails), some are born with full tails, and historically many had their tails docked. In Australia, tail docking is banned in most states. Australian breeders now breed both tailed and natural bobtail Schipperkes, and DNA testing can confirm natural bobtail status. A Schipperke with a full, fluffy tail curving upward is just as much a Schipperke as one without — it simply looks a bit different from the traditional silhouette. When purchasing, ask the breeder whether the puppy is tailed or natural bobtail.
In the US and Australia, the accepted pronunciation is “SKIP-er-kee.” In the breed’s native Belgium, it’s closer to “SCHIP-er-keh” (with the “sch” sounding like the “sk” in “skip”). Either way, most people will have no idea what you’re saying until they see the dog — at which point they’ll probably say “what is that adorable little fox thing?”
Schipperke crosses — particularly Schipperke x Pomeranian, Schipperke x Chihuahua, Schipperke x Dachshund, and Schipperke x Border Collie — appear in search data and occasionally in rescue. These are not ANKC-recognised breeds. Temperament, size, and appearance can vary enormously within a litter, and the Schipperke’s strong watchdog instinct and independence may or may not pass to the cross. If you’re considering a cross, meet the individual dog and assess its temperament rather than making assumptions based on parent breeds.
The Schipperke is not a dog for everyone. It’s a dog for people who find the phrase “little black devil” more endearing than alarming. For the right owner, there is no better small dog on earth.
Here’s what it comes down to:
- The Schipperke is a small (3–9 kg), long-lived (12–16 years) Belgian breed with a fox-like face, a bold personality, and the soul of a dog three times its size. They are alert, intelligent, loyal, affectionate with family, reserved with strangers, and mischievous by nature. They bark. A lot. This is not optional — it’s who they are.
- Grooming is manageable outside of seasonal coat blows. Standard colour is black; cream exists but is rare; blue, chocolate, and red are non-standard. Health is generally excellent — always confirm MPS IIIB DNA testing from the breeder. Dental care is the ongoing priority for this small breed.
- In Australia, ANKC-registered puppies cost $1,500–$3,000+ AUD with annual ongoing costs of $1,500–$3,500. Established breeders include Beadale (SA), Monterrez (NSW), Hapipet, Adorin (VIC), and Ebonjet, with breed clubs in Victoria and NSW. If you want a small, hardy, hilarious, devoted companion with enough personality to fill a Great Dane — and you can live with the barking — the Schipperke is magnificent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you pronounce Schipperke?
In the US and Australia, the accepted pronunciation is “SKIP-er-kee.” In the breed’s native Belgium, it’s closer to “SCHIP-er-keh” (with the “sch” sounding like the “sk” in “skip”).
How much does a Schipperke cost in Australia?
Schipperke puppies from ANKC-registered breeders typically cost $1,500–$3,000+ AUD. Puppies from champion bloodlines or with show potential may be higher.
Do Schipperkes shed?
Yes. They shed moderately year-round and have heavy seasonal coat blows once or twice a year, during which they shed enormous amounts of undercoat.
Are Schipperkes hypoallergenic?
No. Schipperkes have a double coat and shed regularly, including heavy seasonal blows. They are not hypoallergenic.
Do Schipperkes bark a lot?
Yes. Schipperkes are alert watchdogs and will bark to announce anything unusual. Barking can be managed with training but cannot be eliminated.
How big do Schipperkes get?
Males: 28–33 cm (11–13 inches) tall, 3–9 kg (7–20 lb). Females: 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) tall, 3–9 kg. Typically they weigh 5–7 kg.
How long do Schipperkes live?
12 to 16 years on average, with many living into their late teens.
Are Schipperkes good family dogs?
Yes, with their family they are affectionate, loyal, and playful. They are good with children but should be supervised with very young children who may handle them roughly.
Can Schipperkes live in apartments?
Their small size suits apartments, but their barking can be a problem in buildings with thin walls or strict noise rules.
Where can I find a Schipperke breeder in Australia?
Start at Dogzonline.com.au for ANKC-registered breeders by state. Also contact The Schipperke Club of Victoria or the Schipperke Association of NSW for breeder referrals.
1. PetMD — Schipperke Dog Breed Health and Care — https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/schipperke
2. Hill’s Pet — Schipperke Dog Breed — https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/schipperke
3. AKC — Schipperke Dog Breed Information — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/schipperke
4. Wikipedia — Schipperke — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schipperke
5. Dogzonline.com.au — Schipperke Breeders in Australia — https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/breeders/schipperke.asp
6. Dogs NSW — Schipperke Breeds — https://www.dogsnsw.org.au/Breeds/browse-all-breeds/182/Schipperke/
7. Wisdom Panel — Schipperke Facts — https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/schipperke
8. WebMD — What to Know About Schipperkes — https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-about-schipperkes