Schipperke vs Skye Terrier

Non-Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Skye Terrier is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 10–16 lbs for the Schipperke.
  • The Schipperke has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Skye Terrier sheds less.
  • The Schipperke is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitSchipperkeSkye Terrier
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
BelgiumScotland
Height (male)
11–13"10"
Height (female)
10–12"9.5"
Weight (male)
10–16 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
10–16 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Schipperke

The Schipperke is a confident, alert, curious Belgian barge dog — small black 'little captain' with foxy face and ruff. Originally from Belgium, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–16 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as confident, alert, curious.

About the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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Schipperke health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • MPS IIIB
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypothyroidism

Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism