AKC Breed Standard

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the Schipperke as part of the Non-Sporting Group, and its official breed standard outlines the following characteristics:

• Size: Males stand between 11 to 13 inches, while females are slightly smaller at 10 to 12 inches. The Schipperke's build is described as thickset and square, with quality and substance prioritized over size.

• Coat: One of the most distinctive features of the Schipperke is its dense, straight coat, which naturally forms a ruff around the neck, a cape over the shoulders, and culottes on the hindquarters. The coat should be black, harsh to the touch, with a softer undercoat around the neck. This unique coat structure contributes to the breed’s recognizable silhouette.

• Head: The Schipperke has a wedge-shaped head, tapering from the skull to the nose. Its dark, oval eyes give it a mischievous, alert expression, and its small, triangular ears stand erect, enhancing its fox-like appearance.

• Tail: Traditionally, the Schipperke is tailless, with the tail docked to preserve its classic silhouette. This contributes to the breed’s distinctive look.

• Movement: Schipperkes are agile and their movement should be smooth and coordinated. Their trot is graceful, with good reach in the front and drive in the rear, showing off their natural balance and energy.

Schipperkes are known for their confidence and independent nature. While they may be reserved around strangers, they are devoted to their families and protective of their homes, making them excellent watchdogs.

For more detailed information, you can read the full AKC standard for the breed here: AKC Schipperke Standard.

Preservation Breeding

Preservation breeding plays a crucial role in maintaining the Schipperke's health, working qualities, and physical traits. By adhering closely to the AKC breed standard, breeders ensure that each generation of Schipperkes retains the breed’s distinctive look, as well as its intelligence, agility, and loyalty.

The goal of preservation breeding goes beyond appearance; breeders prioritize the health and well-being of the breed to ensure Schipperkes continue to be both functional and healthy companions for years to come. This careful approach helps prevent the introduction of undesirable traits and ensures the breed remains true to its historical characteristics.

Tail Docking and Conformation Showing

Tail Docking

Tail docking is a traditional practice in the Schipperke breed, a practice that dates back to when the breed worked on canals and barges in Belgium. Historically, the tail was docked to prevent injury while the dogs worked in tight spaces. Though tail docking is a controversial practice in some countries today, it remains an integral part of the Schipperke breed standard. Docking the tail preserves the breed’s iconic, tailless silhouette, which is one of its defining features.

Conformation Showing

Conformation dog shows are competitions where dogs are evaluated based on how closely they meet the official breed standard. For Schipperkes, this means assessing their overall structure, coat, size, and temperament. Dogs that excel in these areas are considered high-quality representatives of the breed, helping to promote the Schipperke and ensure that future generations continue to embody the breed’s distinctive qualities.

To succeed in conformation shows, Schipperkes must be well-trained, socialized, and in top physical condition. Judges evaluate the dog's appearance, movement, and behavior, placing particular emphasis on the breed’s unique coat, balance, and agility. Schipperkes that perform well in these competitions contribute to the preservation and promotion of the breed.