Code of Ethics
CODE OF ETHICS
Approved and Effective Immediately by the SCA Board – August 19, 2025
All members are required to accept and sign this Code of Ethics in its entirety as a condition of membership. Membership applications submitted without a signed Code will not be processed and will be returned. Any member found to be in violation of this Code may be subject to reprimand and/or disciplinary action under Article VI of the SCA Bylaws, if formal charges are brought forward.
Existing members agree to abide by the most current version of the Code of Ethics upon payment of their annual dues.
This Code of Ethics establishes a standard of conduct to be followed by members of the Schipperke Club of America, Inc. (SCA). While we recognize the difficulty in addressing every possible situation, any failure to comply with the intent of this Code shall be treated as a specific violation.
The welfare of all Schipperkes is the responsibility of every member. Failure to act in accordance with this Code shall be considered prejudicial to the best interests of the breed.
As a member of the Schipperke Club of America, I agree:
- To uphold the principles of the Schipperke Club of America Constitution, Bylaws, and Statement of Conduct, and to protect its interests in a manner that reflects credit upon myself, the breed, and the SCA.
- To breed as closely as possible to the breed standard adopted by the SCA, with the goal of producing Schipperkes of the highest quality in temperament and health – promoting the breed’s true characteristics and versatility as a companion and in the function for which it was originally bred.
- To educate the public about the Schipperke, honestly representing the breed and the SCA by disclosing known health issues and inherent characteristics, including suitability as a pet.
- To willingly offer assistance and encouragement to new owners and novice competitors, recognizing the need for mentoring and support within the SCA community.
- To breed responsibly; to encourage the spaying or neutering of dogs or bitches not suitable for breeding; and to make appropriate use of the AKC’s non-breeding (limited registration) clause and/or withhold registration papers until proof of neutering has been received.
- To take back, when possible, or assist in placing or rehoming any Schipperke I have bred or sold.
- To stay informed about known and emerging health concerns in the breed and to screen breeding stock for identified health issues when appropriate testing is available.
- To disclose any known health defects or issues affecting the dog, its ancestors, or its offspring when breeding or selling.
- To support and participate in SCA efforts to monitor and improve the health and longevity of the breed through testing, health surveys, and research initiatives.
- To support the efforts of Schipperke rescue organizations.
- To refrain from supplying dogs to pet shops, commercial brokers or dealers, or for raffles or similar promotions.
- To cover all stud service terms with a written agreement and to maintain detailed, accurate records of matings, births, registrations, sales, transfers, etc.
- To provide each puppy or dog purchaser with the following:
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- AKC registration papers (when applicable);
- A minimum three-generation pedigree;
- Complete medical records, including dates and types of vaccinations, worming schedule, and copies of relevant and available health screenings;
- Instructions for proper care, including nutrition, feeding requirements, training, and grooming.
- Sales contract signed by both breeder and purchaser, detailing the terms of the sale.
- To protect the health and welfare of all dogs in my care by providing a safe, sanitary environment, appropriate veterinary care, and adequate socialization.
- To refrain from deceptive or misleading advertising.
- To always promote good sportsmanship.
- To conduct myself in a manner consistent with the AKC Code of Sportsmanship when posting or commenting on social media platforms, including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and dog-related community blogs. Comments referencing the Club or its members should be made in a sensible, respectful, and responsible manner.
