This breed's life expectancy is about 13 to 14 years, but may be more. It once worked on the canal boats of Flanders chasing vermin. It's name means " little captain." It has an uncertain background, some say the breed descends from an ancient breed of black Belgian Sheepdogs; others suggest it's a member of the Spitz family; and others argue that it was a cross between a terrier-type breed and the German Pomeranian. It makes an affectionate family pet but can be suspicious and noisy with strangers.