Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Apartments
- Active owners
- People who want a small watchdog
Watch out for
- Barks a lot
- Escape artist
- Heavy seasonal shedding
Daily care
Exercise: About an hour a day.
Grooming: Weekly brushing; daily when shedding.
Cold weather: Thick double coat handles cold well.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Schipperke
Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate24-inch dog crate
A 24" crate fits most adult Schipperkes (up to about 16 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysDurable chew and fetch toys
Schipperkes have a lot of energy; tough rubber toys and balls hold up to hard play.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Schipperke near you
We're building a list of trusted Schipperke rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Schipperke page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Schipperke rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Schipperke is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
Small · 16–28 lb👪 Good family dogFrench BulldogPlayful, quiet and built for apartment life. Frenchies need little exercise, but their flat faces make them sensitive to heat and cold.
Small · 13–18 lb👪 Great family dogCavalier King Charles SpanielSweet, gentle and adaptable. Cavaliers are happy in an apartment or a house and get along with almost everyone.
Small · 17–23 lbBetter with adults or older kidsShiba InuClean, confident and independent, with a thick coat built for cold. Shibas fit apartments well but are stubborn and hard to train.