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Training an American Eskimo Dog: what works and what to expect

How the American Eskimo Dog learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.

Eskies are among the more trainable spitz breeds, quick and eager when training feels like a game. They respond best to rewards, praise and variety, and they can become sulky or defiant with harsh handling. Keep sessions lively and short, and most will learn an impressive repertoire of tricks and practical cues.

Barking is the chief challenge. Teach a quiet cue early, reward calm observation at windows, and give the dog something else to do when the doorbell rings, such as going to a mat. Separation stress is the other common issue, so practice short absences from puppyhood and build them up gradually.

American Eskimo Dog training in numbers

Easy to train

Barking

5 means very vocal

Copes with alone time

Open with strangers

Good with other dogs

Good with children

Training guides for similar-sized breeds