Is A Schipperke The Right Breed For Your Family?

Schipperkes are wonderful dogs to share your life with, however they, as many other breeds, Schips are not for everyone. Schipperkes are very devoted to their families and are blessed with an abundance of energy.  They are extremely intelligent and will outsmart you when you least expect it.

Schipperkes are masters in the art of escape, eager to find whatever fun might be awaiting them somewhere else. Therefore, no matter how well trained you think they are Schips must have a fenced yard, sometimes -as in our case it is fenced.. in three layers! 

Schipperkes are social animals, but it is important that they are well socialized at an early age. Puppy classes and later obedience classes are a wonderful way to get started.  They enjoy the company of people and other dogs and many like to harass a cat along the way in a days' journey!

It is very important to buy your puppy from an experienced breeder and avoid any form of a retail pet store at all cost! If you see a Schipperke puppy at a pet store- it has probably come from a puppy mill.  These puppies are not the offspring of selective breeding and tend to have many health and social issues - from mild to extreme.  When buying a Schip puppy, beware of the 'good deal'- many times there are reasons behind a 'good deal' that make it not so good.  Older Schipperkes and Rescue Schipperkes are occasionally available from breeders or breed clubs that can offer your family as much love as a puppy and many times have their essential training already in place.  Remember to consider all your options when you are searching and don't make rash decisions, bringing a dog into your life should be a lifetime commitment.

To learn more about Schipperkes visit the AKC Schipperke breed page.  If you are looking for a Schipperkes puppy, it is wise to contact the Schipperke Club of America, they can put you in contact with a breeder referral program that will assist you in choosing a responsible breeder in you area.