They also enjoy some light gardening
(
some do dig) and being messenger to
alert of visitors (they do bark). Most
Schipperkes do get along with other dogs
and often enjoy having a “playmate”.
Schipperkes can make good family
dogs because they are affectionate and
good with children (if raised and social-
ized properly), but can tolerate more
active endeavors and family outings as
well. They can be protective of fam-
ily members, but are easily assured of a
welcomed guest.
You must know that Schipperkes can
tend to be stubborn (but then again, who
of us is not?), but are very eager to please.
Due to this eagerness to please, they train
rather easily to many commands, and are
good house dogs with proper training.
Schipperkes have a mind of their own (if
you have not realized that yet), and so are
not typically trusted off leash. Many times
their curiosity gets the best of them and
“
off they go” after a squirrel, or even a leaf
for that matter!
They tend to be appropriately sensi-
tive, and need very little discipline. No
dog should ever be hit for misbehavior, or
any reason for that matter! It only takes
a stern voice and a, “What did you do?”
for a Schipperke to show its sensitive side.
Schipperkes have this silly way of show-
ing submission, and it often comes in the
form of a grin or “smile”. This is not them
being aggressive, it is in fact the opposite.
Often times, if a Schipperke takes some-
thing that they know they should not
have, they give themselves away with a
very guilty look on their face!
Admittedly though, this breed is not
for everyone. Perhaps those of us who
love this breed can be referred to as tena-
cious, since Schipperkes can be mischie-
vous and sometimes present their own-
ers with a challenge.
Despite this, most Schipperke own-
ers will admit that they find this to be
an endearing quality of this breed. They
keep us on our toes and often offer up
cause for many laughs.
Most people who have once had a Schip-
perke just can’t resist them, and admit that
Schipperkes have fully taken their heart
like no other breed of dog has.
For more information on the Schip-
perke, visit the SCA website at www.
schipperkeclubofamerica.org.
“
Schipperkes can
tend to be
Stubborn...”
S
how
S
ight
M
agazine
,
N
ovember
2012 • 253