Training a Schipperke: what works and what to expect
How the Schipperke learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.
Schipperkes are clever and learn fast, but they are independent and want to know what is in it for them. Food rewards and games work well; long drills do not. Keep sessions to 5 to 10 minutes, change tasks often and finish on a success.
Barking is the main project. Teach a 'thank you, quiet' routine: let your dog alert once or twice, then call it away and reward calm. House training can take a little longer than average, so stick to a steady schedule. Early, positive meetings with visitors, children and other pets keep natural watchfulness from turning into suspicion.
Schipperke 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