Group 1 · Sheepdogs & cattle dogs
Schipperke
The Schipperke is a small Belgian shepherd dog, known as a watchdog for craftsmen and on canal barges. It is curious, lively and always alert.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Schipperke by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 2 examinations:
- 2 DNA tests
The breeding programme also recommends 2 further examinations.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (2)
-
Factor VII deficiency (F7def)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- F7: c.407G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Von Willebrand disease type 1 (VWF1)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- VWF: c.7437G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
Recommended examinations (2)
-
Legg-Calvé-Perthes
X-ray once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- X-ray (VD view of the hips)
-
Patellar luxation
Kneecap examination once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- palpation of the kneecap
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Schipperke, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 12/05/2025.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Factor VII deficiency (F7def) and Von Willebrand disease type 1 (VWF1). The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Legg-Calvé-Perthes and Patellar luxation. A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Schipperke needs daily walks and play and likes to be involved in everything. Its dense coat needs a weekly brush, more often during the moult.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Schipperke is a true watchdog: it announces everything and is often reserved with strangers. It is clever and independent, and needs consistent training and early socialisation.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
