Schipperke

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWeekly brushing

  A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment13–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Patellar luxation · Legg-Calvé-Perthes · Hypothyroidism

The Schipperke — Belgium's 'little black devil', once the watchdog and ratter of canal barges — is a small, foxy, jet-black spitz with a huge, busy, mischievous personality. Endlessly curious, alert and confident, it investigates everything, misses nothing and makes an excellent little watchdog with a big bark. Bold and independent with a strong prey drive, it needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation plus early socialisation and consistent, patient, positive training to channel its energy and manage its barking, and a secure yard, since it loves to explore and can be an escape artist. Given engagement it is a devoted, lively, entertaining companion. The distinctive black double coat with its ruff sheds and 'blows' seasonally, needing weekly brushing and more during moults, but is otherwise low-maintenance. Health-wise the Schipperke is a hardy, long-lived breed, but buy from a breeder who does the available genetic tests, since it can carry MPS IIIB, a serious inherited neurological disease with a DNA test. Also watch for patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes hip disease, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and epilepsy. Give a Schipperke exercise, mental challenge, socialisation and secure containment, keep up dental care, and this bright little black devil will be a spirited companion for thirteen to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a Schipperke need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Schipperke need?

  Weekly brushing. A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Is a Schipperke suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Schipperke a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Schipperke live?

  13–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Schipperke?

  Keep an eye out for Patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes, Hypothyroidism. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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