Once upon a time, a coal-black, fox-faced, pint-sized (often less than 20 pounds, to be exact), a fiery fellow from Belgium came face to face with a thief. With their pointy ears pricked up and a bark to rival a much bigger dog, they yelled “Halt! Who goes there?” No, this isn’t a fairy tale. This is the story of the feisty Schipperke, widely known for its distinct look and bold character.
So, are Schipperkes good guard dogs? You bet they are!
This small but vigorous dog breed, historically known as the “little black devil”, hails from 16th century Belgium where they were mainly used for guarding boats, making them the original watchdogs of the Lowlands. Their name itself, Schipperke, translates as “little captain,” engendering the policing nature that persists until today.
Now, I can hear you wondering, “How can such a small dog breed be a proper guard dog?” Well, let’s delve into their unique characteristics.
Size aside, Schipperkes make excellent watchdogs. They are acutely vigilant, being suspicious of strangers and sounding alarm at anything out of ordinary. Don’t let their small size fool you; they are not afraid to take on bigger dogs or potential threats! Their inherent courage and daring qualify them as fantastic protective companions you can rely on in the face of potential risk.
While Schipperkes might not physically overpower an intruder like a German Shepherd or a Rottweiler, their alertness level is top-notch. With exceptional senses, particularly their keen hearing ability, they can pick up sounds that you and I would never hear. Even the slightest irregular noise will not go unnoticed!
Bringing a Schipperke home is like installing a burglar alarm system. Every single unusual sound or activity will be instantly noted, with their distinctive sharp and loud bark serving as an alert to you. They’re an excellent first line of defense!
Now, all this doesn’t mean that Schipperkes will randomly bark and go crazy at every passerby or falling leaf. As previously noted, this intelligent breed is extremely watchful. They bark when it’s necessary, stopping when instructed to as well. So, yes, Schipperkes guard dogs are not just effective but well-mannered!
Despite their strong guardian instincts, training is important to help them understand their role better and distinguish between a real threat and a family friend. Consistent training sessions and positive reinforcement will help them excel in their protective role while maintaining their family-friendly traits.
However, do remember, every dog, irrespective of breed, has individual personalities. Not all Schipperkes will have the same level of protective instincts or traits. But with proper socialization and training, your little black devil is likely to surprise you with their exceptional guarding aptitude.
In conclusion, while Schipperkes may not fit the stereotypical image of a large, fierce guard dog, they more than make up for it with their boldness, alertness, and reliable instincts. If you’re looking for an industrious, engaging, and entertaining partner with a strong protective streak, a Schipperke might just be the dog for you.
Who knows? Maybe your own little Belgian captain is right around the corner, waiting to step into the role of your valiant watchdog!
