The Ultimate Guide to Training Your Dachshund: Patience, Persistence, and Positive Results

Dachshunds, affectionately known as “wiener dogs” for their long bodies and short legs, are undeniably charming. Their unique appearance, coupled with their spunky personalities, makes them beloved pets worldwide. However, this breed also comes with its own set of training challenges. Bred to hunt badgers, they are independent, tenacious, and can be quite stubborn. But fear not! With the right approach, patience, and consistency, you can successfully train your dachshund and build a strong, loving bond with your four-legged friend. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps, from basic obedience to addressing common dachshund-specific behavioral issues.

Understanding the Dachshund Temperament

Before diving into training methods, it’s crucial to understand the dachshund’s inherent traits. Knowing what makes them tick will inform your approach and help you tailor your training sessions effectively.

• Independent Thinkers: Dachshunds were bred to work independently, often venturing into underground burrows on their own. This independence can translate into stubbornness during training. They might not be as eager to please as some other breeds.
• Strong Prey Drive: Their hunting instincts are deeply ingrained. This means they can be easily distracted by small animals, squirrels, or even moving toys. A secure recall is therefore crucial.
• Sensitive Nature: Despite their boldness, dachshunds are quite sensitive to harsh training methods. Positive reinforcement is key to building trust and encouraging desired behaviors.
• Prone to Back Issues: Their long backs are prone to injuries. Avoid exercises that involve excessive jumping or stair climbing, especially during puppyhood. This also means that physical corrections should be entirely avoided.
• Affectionate and Loyal: While they can be independent, dachshunds are deeply devoted to their families and can be very affectionate companions. Training provides a bonding opportunity, strengthening this bond.

Essential Training Principles

Regardless of the specific commands you’re teaching, these core principles will form the foundation of a successful training experience:

• Positive Reinforcement: Focus on rewarding good behavior. This can include treats, praise, toys, or even a simple pat on the head. Avoid punishment or scolding, as it can damage your relationship and make training less effective.
• Consistency: Everyone in the household should use the same commands and training methods. This avoids confusion and helps your dachshund learn faster.
• Patience: Training takes time, especially with a breed as independent as the dachshund. Be patient and understanding, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks.
• Short Sessions: Dachshunds have short attention spans. Keep training sessions brief (5-10 minutes) and frequent throughout the day. This is better than one long, frustrating session.
• Early Socialization: Expose your dachshund puppy to various sights, sounds, people, and other animals early on. This will help them become well-adjusted adults.
• Proper Exercise: A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Ensure your dachshund gets enough physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. While they are not the most athletic of dogs, they do need daily walks and playtime.

Basic Obedience Training: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s delve into the core obedience commands you should teach your dachshund:

1. Crate Training (Optional but Highly Recommended)

Crate training can provide your dachshund with a safe haven and aid in house training. Here’s how to approach it:

• Introduction: Make the crate a positive space. Leave the door open and place treats and toys inside. Let your dachshund explore it on their own terms.
• Feeding in the Crate: Begin feeding your dachshund meals inside the crate with the door open. This creates a positive association.
• Closing the Door: Gradually start closing the door for short periods while your dachshund is eating or playing with a toy inside.
• Extending the Time: Slowly increase the duration your dachshund spends in the crate. Never use the crate as punishment.
• Nighttime in the Crate: Once your dachshund is comfortable with the crate, begin using it at night.

2. House Training (Potty Training)

House training can be challenging with dachshunds, but consistency is key:

• Establish a Routine: Take your dachshund puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime.
• Designated Potty Spot: Choose a specific spot in your yard where you want your dachshund to do their business.
• Go Outside With Them: Take them out on leash and stay with them. Say a simple command like “go potty”.
• Reward Success: When your dachshund eliminates outside, immediately praise them enthusiastically and offer a treat.
• Clean Up Accidents Thoroughly: Use an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odors that might encourage them to go in the same spot again.
• Watch for Signals: Learn to recognize your dachshund’s signs of needing to go out, such as whining, scratching at the door, or circling.
• Patience is Vital: Accidents happen, especially with puppies. Don’t punish your dachshund. Just keep consistent with your routine.

3. “Sit” Command

• Hold a Treat: Hold a treat near your dachshund’s nose.
• Move the Treat Upwards: Slowly move the treat upwards and back over their head. As their head moves up, their rear will naturally lower into a sit.
• Say “Sit”: As their rear touches the ground, say the command “sit”.
• Reward: Immediately give them the treat and praise them.
• Repeat: Practice this several times a day in short sessions.

4. “Stay” Command

• Start with “Sit”: Have your dachshund sit.
• Show Your Palm: Hold your palm out in front of them, palm facing them.
• Say “Stay”: Say “stay” in a firm but gentle voice.
• Short Duration: Initially, only ask them to stay for a second or two.
• Reward: If they stay, immediately reward them.
• Increase Duration: Gradually increase the time they have to stay before being rewarded.
• Use a Leash: Use a leash for safety if your dachshund is likely to get up.

5. “Come” (Recall) Command

This is one of the most important commands for a dachshund due to their prey drive:

• Start in a Safe Area: Start indoors or in a fenced yard.
• Get Their Attention: Say your dachshund’s name and then say “come”. Use an encouraging tone.
• Move Backwards: Back away to encourage them to come to you.
• Reward Immediately: When they come to you, praise them enthusiastically and give them a treat.
• Practice Regularly: Practice frequently in various locations.
• Use a Long Leash: When practicing outside in an unfenced area, use a long leash for safety.

6. “Down” Command

• Start with “Sit”: Have your dachshund sit.
• Hold a Treat: Hold a treat in front of their nose.
• Lower the Treat: Slowly lower the treat to the floor between their front paws.
• Say “Down”: As their body goes to the floor, say the command “down”.
• Reward: When they are in a down position, immediately give them the treat and praise them.
• Repeat: Practice this several times a day.

7. “Leave It” Command

This command is crucial for preventing your dachshund from picking up unwanted objects:

• Hold a Treat: Hold a treat in your closed hand.
• Show Your Closed Hand: Let your dachshund investigate your closed hand.
• Say “Leave It”: If they try to paw or lick your hand, say “leave it”.
• Open Your Hand: When they stop trying to get the treat, open your hand.
• Reward Them: If they don’t try to take the treat, give them a different treat.
• Progress to Other Objects: Once they master this, practice with other objects on the floor.

8. Leash Training

• Introduce the Collar and Leash: Let your dachshund get used to wearing a collar and leash indoors.
• Positive Association: Pair wearing the leash with positive experiences such as treats or playtime.
• Short Walks: Begin with short walks in a quiet area.
• Avoid Pulling: If your dachshund pulls on the leash, stop walking and wait for them to relax.
• Reward Loose Leash Walking: When they walk without pulling, reward them with praise.

Addressing Common Dachshund-Specific Behavioral Issues

Dachshunds, with their unique personalities, can present some specific training challenges. Here’s how to address some common issues:

1. Barking

Dachshunds are often vocal. Here’s how to manage excessive barking:

• Identify the Cause: Determine why they are barking (e.g., boredom, fear, territoriality).
• Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation: A tired dog is less likely to bark out of boredom.
• “Quiet” Command: Teach the “quiet” command. When they bark, say “quiet”. When they stop, reward them.
• Ignore Barking: If they are barking for attention, ignore them until they stop, then reward their silence.
• Consult a Trainer: If barking is a significant issue, seek professional help.

2. Digging

As a breed originally intended to hunt in burrows, digging can be a natural instinct:

• Provide a Designated Digging Area: Create a sandbox or a designated area where they are allowed to dig. Bury toys or treats there to make it more appealing.
• Redirect Digging: When they start digging in an unwanted area, redirect them to their digging zone.
• Increase Exercise: Extra exercise can help reduce the urge to dig.

3. Separation Anxiety

Dachshunds can be prone to separation anxiety:

• Gradual Departures: Start by leaving them alone for very short periods and gradually increase the duration.
• Provide Comfort: Leave them with a familiar toy or blanket.
• Calming Aids: Consider using calming aids like a pheromone diffuser or calming treats (consult with your vet first).
• Don’t Make a Big Deal: When leaving, don’t make a big fuss about it and do the same when returning.
• Consult a Professional: If separation anxiety is severe, seek advice from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.

4. Stubbornness

Dachshunds’ independence can often come across as stubbornness. Here’s how to address this:

• Patience is Key: Don’t get frustrated. Be patient and persistent with training.
• Positive Reinforcement: Make training fun with lots of rewards and praise.
• Break Training Into Smaller Steps: If your dachshund struggles with a particular command, break it down into smaller, easier steps.
• Keep Sessions Short: Keep training sessions short to prevent them from becoming bored or frustrated.

Advanced Training & Activities

Once your dachshund has mastered basic obedience, you can explore more advanced activities:

• Tricks Training: Teaching tricks like “shake,” “play dead,” or “roll over” can be a fun way to challenge your dachshund mentally.
• Agility (Low Impact): Consider low-impact agility courses or games that won’t strain their backs.
• Scent Work: Dachshunds have a great sense of smell. Try hide-and-seek games with treats or toys.
• Therapy Dog Training: With proper socialization and training, your dachshund can become a wonderful therapy dog.

Essential Equipment for Dachshund Training

• Collar or Harness: A well-fitting collar or harness is essential. Consider a harness that distributes pressure evenly to avoid strain on their neck.
• Leash: A standard 4-6 foot leash is suitable for training. For outdoor recalls, a long leash is beneficial.
• Treats: High-value treats that your dachshund loves are critical for positive reinforcement.
• Clicker (Optional): A clicker can be a useful tool for marking desired behaviors.
• Toys: Use toys for interactive play and as rewards during training.
• Crate: For crate training (if you choose to do so), a crate of an appropriate size.

Conclusion: A Journey of Love and Learning

Training a dachshund is not always easy, but it is incredibly rewarding. Their unique personalities require a blend of patience, consistency, and understanding. By using positive reinforcement and tailoring your approach to their specific needs, you can build a strong, loving bond with your dachshund and enjoy a well-behaved companion for years to come. Remember that training is an ongoing process. Stay patient and continue to provide love and guidance throughout your dachshund’s life. It’s a journey of learning together, and the results will be well worth the effort. With the right approach, your little wiener dog will become a happy, well-adjusted, and cherished member of your family.