Schipperke

Loved by 80% of pet parents

Small, lively, and alert, this breed thrives on curiosity and adventure. Always watchful and loyal, it makes an energetic companion for active households.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

28–33 cm (male)

25–30 cm (female)

WEIGHT

5–8 kg (male)

5–7 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

12–16 years

Schipperke: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Schipperke isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Schipperke's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Schipperke is alert, curious, and confident, often displaying a lively and independent temperament while remaining devoted to its family. They tend to be wary of strangers but are not aggressive.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Often reserved with strangers, loyal to family

Intelligence

Quick learner, solves problems independently

Energy Level

High stamina, thrives on daily activity

Playfulness

Enjoys games, entertains itself and others

Adaptability

Adjusts well to different living environments

Strengths

Alert and vigilant watchdog instincts
Highly intelligent and quick to learn
Compact size suits smaller living spaces
Low grooming needs due to short coat
Loyal and bonds closely with family

Challenges

Prone to escaping through small gaps
Can be stubborn during training sessions
Needs significant daily mental stimulation
Tends to bark frequently and loudly
Often wary or aloof with strangers

Protect your Schipperke

Schipperke are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.

Insure your pet

Intelligence & exercise needs

Schipperkes are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Learns with consistency

Overall rating

Schipperkes are highly intelligent and quick learners, responding well to consistent, reward-based training. Their strong will and independence may require patience and creativity from handlers.

Trainable Tasks:

Recall and off-leash control

Agility course navigation

Scent detection games

Alert barking on command

Leash walking manners

Trick training routines

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

45–60 minutes daily

recommended per day

This breed has high energy levels and requires daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. Activities such as walks, play sessions, and puzzle toys help prevent boredom and maintain their well-being.

Recommended Activities:

Agility competitions

Urban park walks

Nosework challenges

Interactive puzzle feeders

Hide and seek games

Short jogs or runs

Is this breed right for you?

Schipperkes are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Schipperke would fit well in your home.