| The Schipperke originated in Belgium but is often
thought to be a Dutch dog, a confusion that may
have arisen because the Netherlands and Belgium
are relatively modern countries. The breed is thought
by some to be 200 years old, although no records
exist to prove this. It may have been established as
long ago as the mid-1500s, because of a story that
two black dogs without tails rescued Prince William
of Orange from an assassin. Differences of opinion
also exist on the breed's ancestry. Some think it
arose from early northern spitz dogs, while others
consider it a descendant of a now-extinct
Belgian sheepdog.
The Schipperke was once the most
popular housepet and watchdog in
Belgium. Traditionally, its job was
to guard canal barges when they
were tied up for the night,
and it was this task that
earned the breed its name.
Schipperke is Flemish for
"little captain," and has
also been translated as
"little skipper," "little
Boatman," and even
"little corporal."
This breed was first
exhibited in 1880. It was
recognized by the Royal
Schipperke Club of Brussels
in 1886, and given an
official standard in 1904.
The Schipperke Club of
England was formed in
1905 and the Schipperke
Club of America in 1,929.
The Schipperke is an affectionate
dog that is good with children,
usually very long lived, and an excellent
watchdog. It is said to be able to walk
up to 6 miles (10km) a day without tiring,
but will make do with considerably less
exercise. It should be housed indoors
rather than in a kennel. and its coat
needs very little attention.
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