Definition of: schipperke

(skip′ər·kē) noun
A Belgian breed of dog used as a watchdog and sometimes for hunting. It is usually tailless, has a thick-set body, foxlike head, and a rather thick, short, black coat. Formerly called Spits or Spitske. [<dial. Du., a little boatman, dim. of Du. schipper; so called because orig. used as watchdogs on boats]