Page 21 - ShowSight Presents - The Schipperke

SO, JUST WHAT ARE
SCHIPPERKES LIKE ANYWAY?
A LIGHT-HEARTED INTRODUCTION TO THIS UNIQUE BREED
by KRISTIN MORRISON
For anyone who has ever owned a Schipperke before, you need not be told about this wonderfully captivating little breed. For those who are inquisi- tive about this unique breed, here is a candid view of the Schipperke.
They are often referred to as a big dog in a small package or to those of us who love them, as little black devils. You must know in advance that the ref- erence to them being devilish, is meant with love and to really know this breed is to love it!
They average anywhere between 10 to 18 pounds as a mature adult and are about a foot tall, females are typi- cally smaller. Schipperkes have a dis- tinct pattern and texture of their coat which includes a thick double-coat (this breed does shed). This along with the lack of a tail, adds to the unique look of this breed.
Schipperkes originated in Belgium and were used as vermin hunters on the canal boats in the provinces. Many shopkeepers also employed a Schipper- ke’s services as rat hunter and watch- dog. For the size of these dogs, they certainly pack a much larger bark than would be expected. Schipperkes of today are mostly companion dogs, for most any type of family or home envi- ronment. Many of them still hold that ratter instinct and are active and suc- cessful hunters of moles and the like.
“SCHIPPERKES CAN MAKE GOOD FAMILY DOGS BECAUSE THEY ARE AFFECTIONATE AND ARE GOOD WITH CHILDREN...”
“MOST PEOPLE WHO HAVE ONCE HAD A SCHIPPERKE JUST CAN’T RESIST THEM AND ADMIT THAT SCHIPPERKES HAVE FULLY TAKEN THEIR HEART LIKE NO OTHER BREED OF DOG HAS.”
240 • SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, APRIL 2017
Schipperkes are active dogs that very much enjoy such activities as hik- ing, walks, boating (with proper pre- cautions), couch lounging, toy tossing or simply just playing in the yard. They also enjoy some light gardening (some do dig) and being messenger to alert of visitors (they do bark). Most Schipper- kes do get along with other dogs and often enjoy having a playmate.
Schipperkes can make good family dogs because they are affectionate and are good with children (if raised and socialized properly), but can tolerate more active endeavors and family out- ings as well. They can be protective of family 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 isn’t?), 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 do
have a mind of their own (if you have not realized that yet) and so are not typi- cally 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, attentive and need very little disci- pline. No dog should ever be hit for mis- behavior 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 showing submission and it often comes in the form of a grin or smile. This is not them being aggres- sive, it is in fact the opposite. Often times, if a Schipperke takes something that they know they should not have, they give themselves away with a very guilty look on their face!
Admittedly, 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 mis- chievous and sometimes present their owners with a challenge. Despite this, most Schipperke owners will admit that they find this to be an endearing qual- ity of this breed. They keep us on our toes and often offer up cause for many laughs. Most people who have once had a Schipperke just can’t resist them and admit that Schipperkes have fully taken their heart like no other breed of dog has.
As you can tell from previous dis- cussion, Schipperkes are mischievous