Schipperke
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Edit
Like the Keeshond, the Schipperke was a barge dog of the canals, but unlike the Dutch dog of similar size, the Schipperke was a Belgian. Other workmen besides bargemen admired the "little captain" and their dogs took part in what probably was the world's first specialty show, in 1690 in the Grand Palace at Brussels.
 |
| Schipperke |
In those days the dogs were called “Spits” or “Spitske.” The name became Schipperke after a specialty club was formed in 1888. The breed was made fashionable in 1885, when Queen Marie Henriette saw one at a Brussels show and acquired it. The first specimen to enter America is believed to have come three years later, imported by Walter J. Comstock of Providence.
You can read about Poodle here
It was not until 1904 that the first Schipperke was registered in the A.K.C. Stud Book. The breed never has enjoyed terrific popularity in this country but has progressed steadily to a secure place in American affections, particularly after the formation of the present Schipperke Club of America in 1929.
Many Schipperkes are born tailless. While the standard calls for that condition, about an inch of tail is allowed. The dog has a fairly wide, fox-like head, a short, thick-set body and an abundant, slightly harsh coat whose color must be solid black. Permissible weight is up to 18 pounds. He makes an excellent little watchdog, is active and agile and has a nature in which curiosity has a large part. He is not a powerful fighter but his courage causes him to ignore his own size limitations.
The name Schipperke is Flemish for Little Captain and is pronounced skeeper-ker, with the final “r” almost silent. The breed has an instinctive love of horses.
Schipperke Characteristic:
Good family dog; excellent guard dog; loves children; shy with strangers; very hardly.
Color: Any color including white
Height: 14-16 in.
Weight: 22-23 lb
Coat type: Long, fine and straight top coat, fine undercoat; needs very thorough brushing everyday.
Exercise: Enjoys long walks, but can manage without