Schipperke Health Guide
Back to Schipperke OverviewUnderstanding the health profile of the Schipperke helps owners make informed decisions about screening, insurance, and preventive care. Like many pedigree breeds, the Schipperke is prone to certain hereditary and acquired health conditions, most notably Patellar Luxation, Hypothyroidism, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease. With attentive care, most Schipperkes can be expected to live 13–15 years. Smaller breeds often enjoy longer lifespans but can be prone to dental disease and patellar luxation; regular dental care and weight monitoring are particularly important.
Conditions Affecting Schipperkes
- Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 5-12 months Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£3,000
Legg-Calvé-Perthes is an avascular necrosis of the femoral head in small and toy breeds. The blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, causing the bone to die and collapse, resulting in severe hip pain and lameness.
Key symptoms: Progressive hind leg lameness · Pain on hip extension · Muscle wasting of affected leg · Reluctance to bear weight · +1 moreFull details, symptoms & treatment - Category: Endocrine Typical onset: 4-10 years Est. treatment cost: £300-£800/year
Hypothyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in dogs, caused by reduced thyroid hormone production — most often from immune-mediated thyroiditis or idiopathic follicular atrophy. It affects metabolism, skin, and coat quality.
Key symptoms: Weight gain without diet change · Lethargy · Cold intolerance · Bilateral symmetrical hair loss · +2 moreFull details, symptoms & treatment - Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 4 months - 6 years Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£3,500
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the femur. It can be medial (inward) or lateral (outward) and ranges from grade 1 (occasional slipping) to grade 4 (permanent dislocation).
Key symptoms: Intermittent skipping on hind leg · Sudden leg lifting · Bunny-hopping · Hind limb lameness · +1 moreFull details, symptoms & treatment
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