SCHIPPERKE🧬 HEALTH, RESEARCH & PRESERVATION
The Schipperke Club of America Rescue & Health Foundation, Inc., is committed to improving the long-term health and well-being of the Schipperke through research support, education, and access to health testing resources.
By supporting scientific research and promoting responsible breeding practices, the Foundation helps ensure a healthier future for the breed.
🧪 HEALTH TESTING GUIDANCE
Responsible breeding begins with comprehensive health testing.
The Schipperke Club of America requires the following OFA testing to obtain a dog's CHIC certification:
• Eyes
• Patellas
• Thyroid
• Hips
Not required but strongly recommended:
• MPSIIIB
• Cardiac
• Full genetic panel testing (such as Embark Veterinary)
These tests help identify potential hereditary concerns, guide responsible breeding decisions, and contribute to ongoing breed health research.
Genetic Research & Health Initiatives
🧬 MPSIIIB TESTING
🧬 EMBARK & DNA TESTING
🧬 EMBARK & DNA TESTING
MPSIIIB is a serious genetic condition in Schipperkes, and testing plays a critical role in preventing affected puppies.
Testing can be obtained through:
University of Pennsylvania:
https://netapps.vet.upenn.edu/PennGen/SampleTesting/GeneticsTest.aspx?testid=23
Or through Embark Veterinary:
https://embarkvet.com
Breeders are strongly encouraged to test and make informed breeding decisions based on results.
🧬 EMBARK & DNA TESTING
🧬 EMBARK & DNA TESTING
🧬 EMBARK & DNA TESTING
The Foundation has strongly supported DNA-based research and genetic testing initiatives, including participation in Embark.
Embark testing provides:
• Screening for 200+ genetic conditions, including MPSIIIB
• Trait testing (color, fluff gene, bobtail gene)
• Insights into genetic diversity
These tools allow breeders to make informed, responsible decisions and contribute to ongoing research.
🔬 RESEARCH WE SUPPORT
🧬 EMBARK & DNA TESTING
🧾 RED COAT & ALOPECIA RESEARCH
The Foundation has contributed to research and initiatives involving:
• MPSIIIB
• Epilepsy research (including University of Missouri studies)
• Hemangiosarcoma and canine cancer research
• Coat and alopecia-related disorders
• Genetic diversity and DNA-based research (including Embark participation)
These efforts help expand knowledge and improve outcomes for future generations of Schipperkes.
🧾 RED COAT & ALOPECIA RESEARCH
🧾 RED COAT & ALOPECIA RESEARCH
🧾 RED COAT & ALOPECIA RESEARCH
The Foundation supported research into coat disorders in Schipperkes, including conditions resembling Alopecia X.
This work helped document and better understand coat loss patterns and potential genetic influences within the breed.
More information:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/hair-coat-disorder-schipperkes-resembles-alopecia-x/
🔬 EPILEPSY RESEARCH SUPPORT
🧾 RED COAT & ALOPECIA RESEARCH
🔬 EPILEPSY RESEARCH SUPPORT
The Foundation has supported epilepsy research focused on identifying genetic factors contributing to seizure disorders in dogs, including work conducted through the University of Missouri.
This research aimed to better understand the inheritance patterns and genetic markers associated with idiopathic epilepsy, a condition that can affect Schipperkes and other breeds.
🤝 PARTICIPATE IN RESEARCH
🧾 RED COAT & ALOPECIA RESEARCH
🔬 EPILEPSY RESEARCH SUPPORT
Researchers and organizations interested in working with the Foundation or the Schipperke community are encouraged to reach out.
Collaboration helps advance knowledge and improve breed health through meaningful, science-based initiatives.
To inquire about participation: