Schapendoes Training Profile
The Schapendoes is an intelligent and cooperative Dutch herding breed that excels with positive reinforcement. While generally quick learners and eager to please, their independent background can lead to occasional stubbornness. They thrive on variety, mental challenges like agility, and consistent, upbeat training sessions to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
TRAINABILITY
Trainable
8 out of 10
MENTAL STIMULATION NEEDS
Above Average
7 out of 10
LOVE FOR GRUB
Good Eater
7 out of 10
TRAINING FAQ
Are Schapendoes easy to train?
Quick Learner
8 out of 10
Schapendoes are intelligent, quick learners that are generally easy to train due to their eager-to-please nature. While cooperative, their independent herding background can lead to occasional stubbornness. They thrive with consistent, positive reinforcement and enjoy mental challenges like agility, making them rewarding companions for active, patient owners.
Are Schapendoes stubborn?
Cooperative
8 out of 10
Schapendoes are intelligent and cooperative, but their history as independent herders means they can be stubborn thinkers. They may test boundaries or find loopholes if training is repetitive. Use consistent, positive reinforcement and varied, upbeat sessions with high-value rewards to keep this spirited breed focused and engaged.
How to train a Schapendoes puppy?
Good
8 out of 10
Train your Schapendoes puppy with positive reinforcement and variety to engage their quick-learning, cooperative nature. Focus on early socialization and basic obedience through short, fun sessions. Consistency and high-value rewards will build a strong bond and prevent boredom in this intelligent and agile herding breed.
How difficult is to potty train a Schapendoes puppy?
Good
8 out of 10
Potty training a Schapendoes is generally straightforward because of their high intelligence and cooperative nature. While they may occasionally test boundaries due to their independent herding background, maintaining a consistent schedule and using positive reinforcement typically leads to quick success within a few months.
How many walks does a Schapendoes need?
High Needs
8 out of 10
Schapendoes are high-energy herders that typically require at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise, including one or two long, brisk walks. Because of their athletic nature and background in endurance herding, they thrive when walks are combined with vigorous play sessions, hiking, or dog sports like agility. Regular physical activity is essential to manage their abundant energy and prevent boredom in this spirited breed.
What is the best daily routine for a Schapendoes?
Moderate
6 out of 10
A Schapendoes’ daily routine should focus on high physical activity and mental engagement to satisfy their herding instincts. Provide approximately one to two hours of exercise daily, including long walks combined with vigorous play sessions like fetch or agility training. Feed adult Schapendoes twice daily with high-quality food to support their active metabolism. Essential daily care includes short, 10-15 minute varied training sessions using positive reinforcement to prevent boredom, along with regular brushing several times a week to maintain their long, shaggy coat and prevent matting. Ensure they have plenty of social interaction, as they thrive on being an involved member of the family.
VET INSIGHTS
The Schapendoes is an intelligent, cooperative Dutch herding breed that is generally easy to train using positive reinforcement. These quick learners require 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise and thrive on mental challenges like agility. Potty training is straightforward, and their routine should emphasize high physical activity, regular grooming for their shaggy coats, and constant family social interaction.

Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian
Researcher
Dog breed specialist
Verified
