The Schipperke is a versatile dog. History identifies him as a farm dog used for herding and ratting in his native home of Belgium. First depicted in paintings of the 1600's the Schipperkes popularity spread over the centuries sending the breed across Europe and through out the world to its farthest corners. Mainly appreciated as a family companion and little watch dog, the Schipperke has proven useful wearing ornate collars and accompanying the cobbler on walks about town as a model of a cobbler's skill and artistry.  

In more modern times Schipperkes have served the deaf as hearing ear dogs and excel at being therapy dogs for the handicapped and the hospitalized or shut ins.  While sometimes challenging for their handlers to train because, of their somewhat independent nature, once a Schip understands and agrees with what is being asked of him they also excel in many types of performance events.

However, their intense loyalty to their owners and ability to make us laugh with their antics are the main reasons most enthusiasts share their lives with Schips today.