Schipperke vs Welsh Terrier

Non-Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Welsh Terrier is the larger breed at 20 lbs (males) vs 10–16 lbs for the Schipperke.
  • The Welsh Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Welsh Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitSchipperkeWelsh Terrier
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
BelgiumWales
Height (male)
11–13"15–15.5"
Height (female)
10–12"15–15.5"
Weight (male)
10–16 lbs20 lbs
Weight (female)
10–16 lbs20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is a spirited, friendly, intelligent Welsh otter and badger hunter — looks like a smaller Airedale. Originally from Wales, this small terrier breed typically weighs 20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, friendly, intelligent.

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Schipperke health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • MPS IIIB
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypothyroidism

Welsh Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies