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If you are looking for a dog that is active and
intelligent, you may want to consider a Schipperke.
In addition, if you want a good watchdog that can
also be a great companion, the Schipperke might be
for you. This breed, with roots in Belgium, has
become a favorite for many families. A working dog
for most of its history, the Schipperke has been
used as a shepherd and most often, as a watchdog and
rat hunter on boats.
For the most part, the Schipperke is a very
healthy breed and is not prone to many of the
diseases that affect other purebred dogs. Some
Schipperkes can develop hip dysplasia, a
degenerative joint disease, or progressive retinal
atrophy, a condition that may lead to blindness.
Overall, the Schipperke does not present unusual
health problems. The best approach for a prospective
owner is to read as much as possible about the breed
and learn as much as possible by asking many
questions.
We recommend visiting at least three top breeders so
that you will have the opportunity to compare living
conditions and the methods used to raise and
socialize young dogs. Ask to see both breeding
parents and be sure to watch closely to see how the
breeder interacts with the dogs. Many owners
experienced with Schipperkes will say that the key
in getting a healthy dog is to avoid buying from
someone who cannot provide all the family history
and health information you need.
This may mean avoiding some retail outlets and
backyard breeders. You will have many questions to
ask when talking to various breeders. For instance,
how long they have been breeding and selling
Schipperkes, as well as any specific health problems
has the breeder experienced with this dog. You
should also find out if you could have references,
ask about foods the Schipperke eats, and perhaps any
health problems have you seen that are connected
with diet.
The Schipperke has not reached a high level of
popularity compared to the Collie, Poodle, German
Shepherd, and other breeds. This means that
over-breeding is not as much of a problem with
Schipperkes as it may be with other breeds. However,
if you are looking for a new family pet and are
considering the Schipperke, it may still be best to
work only with a reputable breeder or a
rescue/adoption group that is well known.
Getting your Schipperke from a rescue organization
will present challenges that are quite different
from those faced with a puppy. Dogs from
rescue/adoption sources are generally older dogs
that have some established habits and traits that
the new owner may find frustrating. Some of these
habits may be unacceptable in the new home. On the
other hand, many of the dogs from rescue
organizations are well behaved, housetrained, and
excited to have a new home. Most of these dogs need
only a place where they are treated well and given
the love they deserve.
There are different types of rescue groups and
rescue sources. Some have complete facilities for
housing dogs. Other groups do not have the
facilities and work as referral agencies that find
homes for dogs. Some organizations have experts on
staff that will be able to answer most of your
questions. Just about all good rescue/adoption
organizations will have experienced owners involved
who can be a great help to someone looking for a new
pet.
If you consider getting your Schipperke from a
rescue organization, be prepared to abide by the
rules and guidelines set for adoption. Most of these
groups have only the best interests of the dog in
mind when they ask questions. Some may even want to
visit your home to see that the living conditions
and treatment of the dog are correct. In any case,
make sure that the dogs from the rescue source are
healthy, clean, and ready to move to your new home.
Keep in mind that getting a dog from a rescue
organization or a top breeder means asking questions
and being prepared.
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