Pastimes
Rescued him at 2 y.o. and we said "he's a WHAT breed ?" Studied up on Pomerke, and decided 'Yup, that's him'. He is more active, agile and larger than our previous 2 Poms. Also more alert and vocal. 2 adults in the house, but he thoroughly bonded with one. Typical behavior. He is cordial, playful and friendly with the non-bonded person, but he has to watch or follow his bond-mate at all times. He's a watch dog, and barks to alert us. It's a constant effort to keep him from inappropriately barking, but if you can find the right signals to him he is smart enough to stop - if you are more persistent than he is. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the keys. He responds to appropriate praise. Other dogs just excite him. Period. He has never bitten or snapped at another dog, but it takes him a few minutes of you showing him that it's all OK for him to calm down. They are very attuned to human emotions/behaviors. If I talk calmly to my neighbor, he picks up on it and relaxes himself. The appropriate song is: "Excitable Boy" by Warren Zevon. =:))
But...we introduced him to our older female beagle after picking him up, and they got along just fine right from the start. After 6-9 months they were inseparable. In the home, he is the best companion possible. Likes to snuggle at night, in between tours off the bed and around the house. During the day he is often very cat-like: jumping up on chairs and couches to survey the back yard, the living room where I'm sitting and/or to nap. Oh yah - and to bark. It's very easy to see that Schipperkes were watchdogs/ratters on Dutch barges and farms.
Grooming: if you can find a groomer who knows how to cut your little guy - stay with them. If a groomer suggests a poodle or lion cut - run. Shaving can ruin their beautiful double coat.
They are a wonderful mixed breed, if you know what to do and have the time and patience needed. Enjoy !
3 years, 9 months ago