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Schipperke (or Little Boatman)

The Schipperke is an ancient Belgian breed, developed in the Flemish region. Its name means "little boatman," referring to its historical role alongside sailors and boatmen, where it served as a watchdog and pest hunter. It is believed to descend from the Leuvenaar, a breed that also influenced the development of Belgian Shepherds.  


Dynamic, curious, and full of character, the Schipperke is a small dog with a big temperament! It is known for its boundless energy, liveliness, and protective instinct, despite its small size.  


 ✨ Breed Characteristics  


- Origin: Belgium  

- Hypoallergenic? No  


 📊 Quick Facts  


- Weight:  

  - Male: 5-8 kg  

  - Female: 3-5 kg  

- Height:  

  - Male: 30-34 cm  

  - Female: 30-32 cm  

- Life expectancy: 13-15 years  

- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day  

- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Possible with sufficient outings)  


 🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)  


- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Tends to bark to alert)  

- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be stubborn, consistent training needed)  

- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Strong instinct for pest hunting)  

- Calm: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Energetic and curious, it needs activity)  

- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  


 🐾 Compatibility with  


- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Playful and dynamic, but requires structure)  

- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can coexist with good socialization)  

- Strangers: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Reserved, tends to bark at strangers)  

- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Adapts well if its exercise needs are met)  


 🧼 Maintenance & care  


- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Dense coat that requires regular grooming)  

- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Fairly economical)  

- Care frequency:  

  - Brushing: 1 to 2 times a week to avoid dead hair accumulation  

  - Baths: Rare, only as needed  

  - Regular monitoring of ears, eyes, and teeth  

  - Professional grooming not necessary, but good hygiene is essential  


 💰 Budget  


- Purchase price: 600-1100 €  

- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 200-400 €  


 🏡 Important note  


The Schipperke is a lively and curious dog that loves to explore its environment and participate in family life. It is suited for dynamic owners who can provide firm but positive training.  


👉 Perfect for those looking for a compact, playful, and protective dog! 🏡🐾

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Protect the one who is most loyal to you

Your dog is part of your family. Belfius Direct Insurance's Pet Insurance takes care of them by covering unexpected veterinary expenses in case of illness or accident in Belgium.

Learn more

Protect the one who is most loyal to you

Your dog is part of your family. The pet insurance from Belfius Direct Insurance takes care of him by covering unexpected veterinary costs in case of illness or accident in Belgium.

Learn more