Training Dachshund Puppies: A Comprehensive Guide

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

I remember the day I brought my dachshund puppy home, all floppy ears and boundless energy.

These little bundles of joy are full of personality, but their stubborn streak can make training a bit of a challenge.

If you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered how to turn that adorable chaos into a well-behaved companion.

Training a dachshund puppy is about more than just teaching them to sit or stay—it’s about building a bond.

These clever pups have a mind of their own, so patience and consistency are key.

Whether it’s potty training or mastering basic dog training commands, understanding their unique traits can make all the difference.

Understanding Dachshund Behavior

Grasping how dachshund puppies behave is key to effective training.

Each dog has unique traits and challenges which often shape the approach needed.

Common Traits

Dachshunds are energetic and curious, often leading them to explore their surroundings enthusiastically.

This natural curiosity can make training both fun and engaging.

Stubborn but intelligent, they excel when mentally stimulated, yet may resist when bored.

Early training must incorporate mental challenges to keep their interest.

Affectionate yet independent, these puppies enjoy companionship but also value their freedom.

Unique Challenges

The stubborn nature of dachshunds presents a unique trial.

My experience tells me that patience can guide through resistant phases.

Strong-willed and sensitive, these puppies easily sense frustration, making gentle correction essential.

Their hunting instincts can distract them easily.

I learned control commands like “stay” and “come” are vital when their instincts kick in during walks.

Remember to approach these challenges with consistency and a calm demeanor.

Essential Training Techniques

Training dachshund puppies requires specialized strategies due to their unique traits.

Here are my top techniques that help nurture well-behaved pets.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement forms the backbone of effective training.

I use treats and praise to reward my dachshund when they demonstrate a desired behavior.

For example, whenever they respond to a command like “sit” or “stay,”

I give them a small treat immediately to reinforce the behavior.

This creates a strong association in their mind that good behavior leads to positive outcomes.

Consistency and Patience

Consistency and patience are key to successful dachshund training.

I ensure commands and rules remain consistent, so my dachshund knows what is expected.

For instance, using the same words and voice tone for commands helps my pup understand instructions without confusion.

Patience becomes important, especially when their independent nature kicks in.

I calmly repeat training routines daily, knowing progress might be slow at first.

Early Socialization

A lot of times, people neglect early socialization, but that’s a big mistake in my opinion.

This plays a crucial role in shaping a well-rounded dachshund.

Introducing new experiences can help build their confidence.

Introducing New Environments

Exposing dachshund puppies to a variety of settings improves adaptability.

Every week, I introduce mine to different environments like parks (lots of noises), streets (many smells), and even friends’ homes (new people).

By doing this, they get used to diverse stimuli and become less likely to develop fears.

Short sessions, around 10-15 minutes, are ideal to ensure that your puppy doesn’t get overwhelmed.

Handling with Confidence

Frequent, gentle handling teaches them to feel secure when touched.

I make it a habit to hold them daily, touching their paws, ears, and tail, which helps them relax during vet visits.

Playing games during handling times, like softly massaging their belly or back, links positive feelings to being handled.

I always reward them with affection or treats when they remain calm, reinforcing the idea that interaction is a safe and pleasant experience.

Crate Training Tips

Crate training dachshund puppies helps provide them with a safe and comfortable space.

It also aids in establishing routines and managing their behaviors effectively.

Choosing the Right Crate

Selecting a crate that suits your dachshund puppy’s size and needs is crucial.

Ensure the crate is large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Too much space can lead to accidents, so it’s important to find the right balance.

I usually recommend this one as it’s highly practical, sturdy, and easy to clean:

Establishing a Routine

Consistency is key when establishing a crate training routine.

Introduce the crate as a positive place with the use of toys or treats.

Encourage your puppy to enter the crate by placing a treat inside, and, once inside, offer praise to reinforce positive associations.

Regular crate times, such as during meals or bedtime, help form habits and expectations.

Gradually increase crate duration, ensuring the puppy remains calm and relaxed.

Housebreaking Strategies

Got a new puppy?

Housebreaking a dachshund puppy involves patience and a solid strategy.

You need to understand their potty signals and create a consistent schedule in order to effectively train your puppy.

Recognizing Potty Signals

Identify common signs your dachshund might display when needing a bathroom break.

Sniffing the floor, circling an area, or suddenly stopping play are typical indicators.

When you see these behaviors, you can anticipate their needs, reducing accidents indoors.

Responding quickly when these signals appear is essential to reinforce positive bathroom habits.

Creating a Schedule

Establish a routine to set clear expectations for your dachshund.

Take your puppy outside after meals, playtime, and naps.

Consistency strengthens their bladder control and aligns with their biological rhythms.

Morning, afternoon, and evening bathroom breaks help create predictable patterns.

A structured schedule aids in the training process by building reliable habits over time.

Getting Professional Help

So many times I’ve seen new dog parents being overwhelmed by a new puppy.

I don’t blame them though as there’s like a million things to handle like getting all their essentials.

Which is why lots of owners neglect dog training, even though they know it’s important.

Here’s the thing: you don’t actually have to hire a professional right away.

I’ve got a busy schedule, and sometimes trying to fit in a training session can be quite challenging.

That’s the reason why I turned to online courses, and there’s no other better one than this:

It’s very reasonably priced and you get to learn at your own pace. There are tons of useful videos and you can get access to a professional for help without shelling out hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

Please, at least take a look at it, would ya?

Addressing Behavioral Issues

The bottomline here is that training a dachshund puppy isn’t just about teaching commands; you also need to understand and address their unique behavioral quirks.

These little furballs can be quite stubborn, so you must approach challenges with a gentle yet firm hand.

By focusing on positive reinforcement and creating a strong bond, I’ve found that even the most independent dachshund can learn to follow the rules.

With time and effort, you’ll have a well-behaved dachshund that not only listens but also thrives in a loving environment!