What is a Schipperke like?
Schipperkes are usually curious, energetic and alert dogs that enjoy being involved in everything happening around them. Many are affectionate with their families but also independent enough to make their own decisions.
The breed has a working background as a small watchdog and vermin controller, particularly around boats and yards. In day-to-day ownership, this often means a dog that is watchful, busy and quick to react to movement, sound or change.
Schipperke temperament
Schipperkes are often confident, intelligent and lively. They can be loyal family companions, but they may also be vocal, mischievous or strong-willed if under-stimulated. Their alertness means early training around barking, recall and calm settling is useful.
Schipperke care needs
- Provide daily walks, play and training to meet the breed’s active nature.
- Brush the dense coat weekly, with extra grooming during seasonal shedding.
- Work on recall and lead control because some Schipperkes may chase wildlife.
- Keep training varied because this breed can become bored with repetition.
- Monitor dental health because smaller breeds can be prone to tartar build-up.
- Policy wording sets out ears, nails and paw pads regularly as part of routine care.
Schipperke size and lifespan
Male Schipperkes are usually around 28 to 33cm at the shoulder and commonly weigh between 5 and 8kg. Females are usually around 25 to 30cm and commonly weigh between 4 and 7kg. Average lifespan is generally around 13 to 15 years. Healthy weight, dental care, regular exercise and good routine management can all support long-term comfort and wellbeing.
Schipperke exercise needs
Most adult Schipperkes need around 45 to 75 minutes of daily exercise, depending on age, fitness and temperament. They often enjoy brisk walks, games, scent work, trick training and activities that give them something to think about. Puppies should avoid excessive structured exercise while developing, and many owners follow the five-minute rule, meaning around five minutes of structured exercise per month of age up to twice daily.
Coat and grooming
The Schipperke has a dense double coat that sheds steadily and more heavily during seasonal coat changes. Weekly brushing is usually enough for much of the year, with extra grooming needed when the undercoat loosens. Owners should also check nails, ears, teeth and paw pads regularly, especially because active small dogs can pick up debris on walks.
Temperament and training
Schipperkes are intelligent and capable learners, but they can also be independent and easily distracted. Reward-based training, clear routines and short, varied sessions usually work well. Owners should be aware of barking, prey drive, escape attempts and possible guarding behaviour if the dog is not given enough structure.
Is a Schipperke right for me?
Schipperkes usually suit owners who want a small dog with energy, confidence and a strong personality. They can adapt to different homes, but they need training, exercise and mental stimulation rather than being treated as a low-effort lap dog. Before comparing policies, it is worth factoring in potential costs linked to dental care, eye conditions, joint issues or ongoing treatment.
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For more context before comparing cover, read our guide to hip scoring and dog insurance and the jargon buster on bilateral conditions.