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Schipperke: Dog Breed Profile | Dog Tips Secret



Schipperke

The Schipperke is simply adorable with its bright eyes, foxy-looking face and curious personality. These mischievous little rascals are extra busy, always wanting to be part of the action. Schipperkes are full of energy and lots of fun to be around. The curious, adventurous Schipperke is a known escape artist, and should never be trusted off leash. A fenced yard is a must, and fences should be well kept with no small holes to escape through.

Schipperkes might get along with other family pets if raised with them, but some might not want to be friends with strange pets. Schipperkes are born to chase, so they are not safe around small pets like hamsters, rabbits and birds, and some might bother the family cat. Excellent watchdogs, Schipperkes are naturally suspicious of strangers and protective of their home territory. Unfortunately, they tend to bark at every little sound, so excessive barking can be an issue.

Finnish Spitz (Finkie): Dog Breed Profile

Finnish Spitz (Finkie)

Animated, intelligent, and friendly, the Finnish Spitz is a historic hunting dog breed in the non-sporting group and makes an excellent addition to an active family. Affectionately nicknamed Finkie, this fun breed is exceptionally kid-friendly and protective of his pack.

Their pricked-up pointy ears and alert disposition gives them a definite fox-like image. You may have to look twice when you spot one to be sure you’re not in the presence of a wild animal. And similar to foxes, Finkies are stealthy hunters known to catch small game like birds and squirrels with ease.

Finkies were bred to bark. Hunters bred them to do it when they spotted prey on a hunt in the countryside. While barking may be desired in that setting, it’s not always a beloved behavior at home. It will take training to teach your pup when and when not to bark. If you do decide to add a Finnish Spitz to the family, be prepared for vocalization.

This breed also loves to run. Potential owners should be active—not couch potatoes—and eager to take at least one long walk, run, or hike a day. Extra play sessions are always welcome, too. Finkies are sharp as a tack and, though they can be independent thinkers, are responsive to positive reward-based training. Training them to run agility courses would be an excellent way to tire out your Finnish Spitz.