The clever and rambunctious Schipperke would prefer to bounce right into your heart rather than take a less direct approach. These unique dogs are small in size but stout in character. Even without a tail, their quick wits, prick ears, bright expression, thick coat, and small stature imbue them with foxy charisma. They hail from Flemish Belgium and originally served as vermin hunters and watch dogs on docks and barges. Their name is actually derived from the Flemish word for boat. These days their energy and enthusiasm makes them apt participants in the show ring, agility, obedience, and any other activity that showcases their natural vivacity and intelligence. They are long lived, often enjoying life well into their teen years. They are amenable to apartment or suburban living as long as they are adequately entertained. Their coat is low maintenance but benefits from regular brushing and bathing.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
