Make exploring safe before relying on recall
AKC describes an urge to explore and recommends a leash outside fenced areas, alongside early recall training. Plan both: practice returning for a reward, and maintain a physical boundary when an unexpected distraction could lead toward traffic. For a small dog, inspect low gaps as well as the gate latch. Put the leash on before opening an exterior door, especially when another person is bringing in groceries or equipment. Watchdog barking also deserves a plan beyond expecting the dog to grow out of it. Note whether alerts happen at the window, hallway or entrance, and practice an alternative activity away from that trigger. The aim is a routine everyone can follow, not a promise that an alert breed will never make noise. Include play and learning in daily life instead of treating small size as evidence of low activity needs.[1]
Ask for the complete screening record
The club’s September 2025 statement lists eye, thyroid, patella and hip assessments for CHIC, with MPS IIIB testing and cardiac examination as additional recommendations. It advises testing before breeding or by two years of age, whichever comes first. When comparing prospective parents, collect the actual reports rather than a single description such as health tested. Record the dog’s identity, examination date and finding for each item. For hips, ask what the evaluation assessed: the statement distinguishes younger evaluation for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease from the age used for hip dysplasia assessment. Confirm current requirements with the club or OFA, since a dated statement is not a permanent rulebook. None of these records replaces the puppy’s own veterinary examination or later investigation of symptoms.[2]
Carrier and affected mean different things for MPS IIIB
PennGen identifies the Schipperke MPS IIIB test as a DNA test for a NAGLU variant. Its result guidance distinguishes a carrier with one variant copy from an affected dog with two copies. A carrier is not expected to develop this disease but can pass the variant to offspring; the result therefore matters for breeding without meaning the pet has MPS IIIB. Ask your veterinarian or the testing laboratory to explain the report before drawing conclusions. A clear result is specific to the tested condition, not every cause of neurological illness. If a dog develops new balance problems, tremors or changes in behavior, seek veterinary assessment rather than using an old certificate to dismiss them or diagnosing MPS IIIB from a breed description alone.[3]
Frequently asked questions
Is a Schipperke small enough to need very little activity?
Size alone does not establish activity needs. AKC describes an energetic, exploratory dog. Plan regular outings, play and training, with a leash or secure enclosure for safety.
Source [1]Does an MPS IIIB carrier result mean my dog has the disease?
PennGen says a dog with one variant copy is not expected to develop MPS IIIB, but can pass that variant to offspring. Ask your veterinarian or the laboratory to interpret the specific result; carrier is different from affected.
Source [2]Does a DNA panel replace the thyroid or patella examination?
No. The club’s September 2025 guidance treats these as separate assessments. Ask for the actual reports and confirm the current screening recommendations rather than assuming one panel covers everything.
Source [3]FAQ sources
- American Kennel Club — Schipperke care ↗FAQ reference 1
- University of Pennsylvania PennGen — Schipperke MPS IIIB DNA test ↗FAQ reference 2
- Schipperke Club of America — September 2025 health statement ↗FAQ reference 3
Sources & methodology
Breed-level measurements and comparison scores provide context. They do not predict an individual dog's health, behaviour or suitability. Open the original publisher pages below to verify the facts and compare any later updates.
- American Kennel Club — Schipperke care ↗Reference 1 · reviewed 2026-09-27
- Schipperke Club of America — September 2025 health statement ↗Reference 2 · reviewed 2026-09-27
- University of Pennsylvania PennGen — Schipperke MPS IIIB DNA test ↗Reference 3 · reviewed 2026-09-27
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