Schipperke

On the canal barges of Belgium, the Schipperke earned its keep by guarding the boat and clearing rats between ports. Its name is usually translated as little captain. It was equally at home with the tradesmen's guilds of Brussels, whose members showed off their dogs' brass collars on Sundays. The bold, tailless silhouette has changed little in over a century.

Schipperkes are endlessly curious and mischievous, and constantly on the move. Belgian bargemen gave them the old nickname of little black devils. They are natural watchdogs, quick to bark at anything unfamiliar, and their sharp intelligence means they need regular mental stimulation or that energy surfaces as digging, escaping or general mischief.

Within the family they are typically devoted and playful, though often reserved with strangers unless socialised from puppyhood. They can do well with children who handle a small, high-energy dog gently, with supervision. A predictable routine, including set feeding times rather than food left down all day, channels their busy, food-motivated nature into good manners.

Small in stature but far from low-energy, Schipperkes generally do well on an energy-dense complete food formulated for small breeds, with kibble sized for their compact jaw. They are keen, opportunistic eaters, so free feeding is a mistake. Portioning accurately against body condition avoids the gradual weight gain that strains knees prone to luxation.

The breed has a dense double coat and a predisposition to joint issues such as patellar luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Prioritise foods with good omega fatty acids for the coat and added joint-support nutrients like glucosamine. Keep treats modest, as this breed's enthusiasm for food can outpace its genuinely small daily calorie needs.

Every dog is different — weight, age and activity all shift what a Schipperke needs. The Food Finder turns these breed tendencies into a shortlist matched to your dog’s age, size, budget and needs.