SPECIAL CARE AND TRAININGBecause of its curiosity and stubborness the Schipperke must be taken in hand at an early age of eight to ten weeks. It must be housetrained early and properly. It should also be exposed to all members of the family, particularly children of who it is extremely fond. Obedience training should be started early, too, and should continue throughout its active life. Always remember that the dog is stubborn and will think that its way is the best way.
The Schipperke's coat is thick and double and should always be clean and gleaming. A good brushing once or twice a week should suffice except in the shedding season when it must have warm baths with mild soap to provide a clean healthy skin for the new coats. Its erect ears generally pose no problem. It needs to exercise, but do not trust it off the lead since it is so curious that it is likely to dart away very quickly. The Schipperke is a keen hunter and may well go kiting off after squirells, raccoons, or cats--so a collar and lead are recommended.
