Schipperke

In the 19^th century Belgium, schipperkes (Flemish for “little skippers”), developed by miniaturizing black sheepdogs called Leauvenaars-considered the ancestor of the Belgian sheepdog (Groenendael) as well-served as mascots for barges traveling on the canals between Brussels and Antwerp.

Their tails were said to be docked to make it easier for them to move around on barges, although a traditional story tell how the custom derived from a man who cut his schipperke’s tail off because the dog stole food.

They have curious dark eyes, mobile ears, and no tail. One owner says, “People often take these puppies for animals other than dogs.”

These winsome, fawning, active dogs are wary toward strangers, so they make good watchdog. “These dogs are very sensitive to noises,” one owner comments, “I have never seen them fast asleep.”

Their water-repellent coat needs only occasional brushing, although they lose a lot of hair during the shedding period and require more frequent care; also, watch for skin conditions.

Origin: Belgium
Size: (male) Height about 12 inches; weight about 18 pounds
(female) same
Coat: Rich but somewhat hard; undercoat is soft and dense; longer capelike hair behind neck. Black coats are standard, but any solid colors are acceptable.