Schipperke

The Schipperke is a small Belgian breed long associated with the craftsmen of Brussels and Antwerp and with the boatmen of the Flemish canals, where it caught rats and guarded the barges.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale classes it among the sheepdogs.

Curious, quick and very watchful, the Schipperke notices everything and raises the alarm readily. It is affectionate with its family and rather reserved with strangers.

Independent, it needs consistent, patient training.

This is a robust, often long-lived breed. Some rare inherited conditions (a metabolic disease, eye disorders) have been described, so ask the breeder for test results.

Also keep an eye on its teeth and weight.

It tends to put on weight if overfed, so measure portions of food for small active dogs.

Limit treats.

It needs daily walks and play. Its rodent-hunting instinct can make it run off.

Keep it on a lead outside fenced areas.

It lives well in an apartment if it gets enough exercise, but its alert barking should be channelled early.

Its black coat, longer around the neck (the ruff), needs brushing once a week, more during the moult.

Remember nails and teeth.