Schipperke
A small, fox-faced Belgian "little captain" — fearless watchdog of Flemish canal boats for centuries.
Belgian sailors' favourite — Schipperkes guarded boats + ratted on canal barges. Tailless (either docked or naturally bobtailed in some lines). Boundless energy in a tiny package.
Temperament
Curious, fearless, mischievous. Very vocal — excellent watchdog. Devoted to family but suspicious of strangers.
Exercise needs
45–60 minutes daily — surprising stamina for a small dog.
Grooming
Black double coat with distinctive ruff. Brush weekly, more during 2× yearly heavy moult.
Common health issues
Generally hardy. Watch for: MPS IIIB (rare lysosomal storage disease, DNA test), Legg-Calvé-Perthes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism.
👍 Best for
Active singles + families wanting a watchdog in a small package.
👎 Not best for
Quiet households (they bark), sedentary owners.