Schipperke
The Schipperke is described by the AKC as alert, curious, confident, a member of the Non-Sporting Group, originally from Belgium.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 11-13 inches (male), 10-12 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10-16 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Curious / Confident [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Belgium [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 110 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Schipperkes are very active, energetic, and busy little dogs. A brisk daily walk or a romp in a fenced yard will provide needed exercise. They love playing and exploring, and they thrive in households that have the time and patience to properly train them and appreciate their playful personalities. [1]
Grooming
The Schipperke's coat needs only weekly brushing, though they do go through a shedding season once or twice a year. During these periods, more frequent brushing will help to keep the amount of shed hair under control. As with all breeds, the nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Schipperkes are generally healthy dogs, and reputable breeders screen their breeding stock for health concerns such as luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps), Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (hip problems), eye problems, and thyroid problems. Breeders can also test for MPS IIIB, a newly recognized and fatal disease that usually shows up by 2-4 years of age as balance problems, and avoid producing the disease by identifying carriers and breeding them appropriately. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog has a long, healthy life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Thyroid Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Schipperke in 1904. [1]
- It ranked No. 110 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 109 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Schip, Schippie, The Little Captain.” [1]
- The AKC lists Belgium as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Schipperkes live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-16 years.
How big does a Schipperke get?
AKC breed information lists height 11-13 inches (male), 10-12 inches (female) and weight 10-16 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Schipperke?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Schipperke, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.