Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a medium sized dog imported for the purpose of Dog Sled racing. The smaller dogs were at first scoffed at because of their size, but they proved themselves to be exceptional sled dogs. Before you fall in love with their looks, there are some things you should know about this breed. They are wonderful pets and very intelligent, however, they are not right for every family.
Redeeming and Not so Redeeming Qualities
Siberians are very intelligent. That being said, they will get bored easily.
Siberians are very loving and make excellent companions. Because of this they are poor watchdogs. At the same time just the wild look of a Siberian maybe all that is needed to deter a burglar from trying to brake in.
Siberians are great for athletic people and enjoy hiking, walking, jogging, however, Siberians can NEVER be trusted off leash. Even the most well trained Siberian will take the opportunity to "run free" if given it.
Siberians are attractive dogs with a wild look and a high prey drive. They may kill small animals including cats.
Siberians are escape artists. Some are worse than others and may require more than just a fenced yard.
Siberians dig ! They just do it and you cannot stop them! You can train them to dig in one area or in a sandbox. However if you cannot live with digging, then stop reading and look for a different breed.
Siberians are very pack-oriented. They will not tolerate long periods of isolation. If you work long hours you will need to get your dog a companion or look into a different breed.
Siberians shed a HUGE amount of fur twice a year. If you value a spotless home this is not the breed for you.
The Siberian Husky as a Companion
The Siberian makes a wonderful pet. They thrive on attention, and long walks in the park. Most are good with children. The only danger with very young children is that the Siberian may be so eager to play that they may knock the child over, resulting in injury to the child. Siberians love to go everywhere with their owners. Remember the leash !
Some Do s and Don't s
DO HAVE FUN! Training your dog is supposed to be fun. If you are not having fun, you should look back and re-evaluate your goals.
DO establish yourself as pack leader early. This will make the training easier. A dog who does not respect you will not want to do what you ask.
DO use positive motivational training as much as possible. Only use corrections when the dog understands what you are asking.
DO keep your training sessions short and upbeat. Use a lot of play and silliness.
DO find a toy or treat that your dog would just die for and use it as a bonus reward for when he/she does something extra special.
DON'T bore your Siberian with too many repetitions of the same exercise. When they do it right once, quit.
DON'T expect too much too soon.
DON'T train if you are in a bad mood. That bad mood goes right down the leash to the dog. They will know it.
DON'T correct your dog out of anger. You are correcting the behavior not the dog.
Schipperke
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The Schipperke originated in the Flemish regions of Belgium, bred down in size from a black sheepdog called the Leauvenaar. The breed worked as a companion of tradesmen as well as a watchdog and ratter on the river barges, which is where they got the name "Schipperke" since the Flemish word "schip" means boat. Another common nickname for the Schipperke is "Little Captain."
The small, foxlike Schipperke is known for its mischievous expression and distinctive black coat, which stands off from the body and is harsh to the touch. This enthusiastic, joyful, and sometimes willful dog has a thickset and cobby body, and lacks a tail. Although historically a watchdog and vermin hunter, today this ageless breed enjoys competing in conformation, agility and obedience, often well into its teens.
The Schipperke is extremely active and loves to be involved in what is going on around him, but due to their watchdog tendencies, they can turn into barkers if not taught otherwise. Equally happy in an apartment or a home with a large yard, they should be kept on leash when not in a fenced area and be taken to obedience classes. The breed’s coat needs only weekly brushing and an occasional bath, although they do shed several times a year.
Quoted from AKC Breed Stander