Training an Icelandic Sheepdog: what works and what to expect
How the Icelandic Sheepdog learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.
Icelandics are eager to please and quick to learn, and they do best with warm, reward-based handling. They were bred to think while working, so they enjoy problem-solving tasks more than endless repetitions of sit. Keep sessions short and varied.
Barking is the main training project. The breed was valued for raising the alarm, so expect to teach a quiet cue and reward calm behavior at the window and door. Early socialization with traffic, other dogs and busy places helps a naturally friendly dog stay confident rather than overexcited.
Icelandic Sheepdog 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