Welcome to Juneau, Alaska, home of the Black Ice Belgian Sheepdog and Schipperke. My name is Susan Hoffman and I developed an ardent love of the Belgian Sheepdog that began in the early 1970’s. I found them to be the utmost of devoted companions, a delight to live with and their extraordinary brilliance makes them easy to train. I breed Belgian Sheepdogs occasionally and only when I plan to keep a puppy from the litter for myself. Each breeding is meticulously planned and careful attention is paid to the qualities that first enamored me with the breed. I consider myself a breed guardian and I am dedicated to producing healthy dogs with excellent temperaments, great work ethic, large hearts and beautiful conformation.

All my puppies are raised in the house. I make every effort to prepare them for the rest of their life. I begin with a good foundation using the bio-sensor method that involves early stimulation from days three through sixteen. This system helps develop strong nerves in difficult situations that may occur later in life.  As the puppies grow they are exposed to children, other animals, a small swimming pool (when temperatures allow) and different surfaces to walk on. I introduce them to puppy sized agility obstacles (i.e.: wobble board, small tunnel and puppy sized jumps). Puppies are evaluated at day 49 to ensure that I match each puppy with the right home. I give the same care and attention to placing my puppies in their forever homes as I do researching health and temperaments in their lines.  

All Black Ice Belgian Sheepdogs are sold on written contracts that guarantee against some known genetic conditions as well as temperament.  The contracts (show/breeding and companion/performance) explain exactly what the owner is responsible for during the life of the dog (including training, socialization, housing, feeding, and general basic care expectations), what the owner's options are if the dog can no longer be a part of their home for any reason, under what conditions a dog may or may not be bred, and what role I have during the lifetime journey you have with your dog.

• Spring 2010 litter planned! Visit our Litters page!