Dachshunds are small and adorable with the attitude of a large breed. They may seem playful and friendly at first glance, but as you begin to know them, you will find that they can be quite challenging to train due to their stubborn and independent nature. So, if you’re planning to adopt a Dachshund, be ready to invest a lot of time and effort in their training.
Don’t be afraid, though! Training a Dachshund won’t be too difficult if you know how to do it correctly. The key is patience. Since these dogs are quite willful, you need to be gentle and find their motivations for training.
If you’re new to dog parenting, this guide will discuss some helpful tips to help you easily train your little Doxie. So, let’s dive in!
How to Train a Dachshund Puppy
Before you start your Doxie’s training, break it down into smaller sessions to gradually make your pup accustomed to this new thing. This method will ensure your puppy enjoys their training without getting too tired.
Here are some tips for training your young pup.
1. Allow the Puppy to Get Familiar With Your Home
Before you bring your new dog home, make sure to puppy-proof your entire house beforehand. This includes decluttering the rooms, removing small items your pup may swallow, hiding kids’ toys and electrical cords, etc. Simply eliminate anything that could risk your pup’s safety. At first, you must confine the dog in a small room and then introduce them to other parts of the home. This way, they won’t be overwhelmed.
Remember, you can’t train a dog that isn’t comfortable in their environment. If you force your pup for training right after bringing them home, they may feel threatened and show destructive behavior.
Dogs need time to build habits in their new surroundings, especially a puppy, as they are going through a huge change in their daily life without their mother and siblings. So, you should be patient and gradually let them discover their new home and understand they’re completely safe here.
2. Train Your Pup Early
Once your puppy is familiarized with their new home, you should begin their training as soon as possible. The ideal age to train a Dachshund puppy is 8 to 12 weeks. That’s when the pup has been weaned from their mother and is ready to enter the real world.
An 8-week-old puppy is also curious enough to experience new things, making them receptive to training. Potty training, crate training, name recognition, learning “come” and “sit,” and socialization should be the first goals on your training schedule.
3. Discourage Chewing
Teething puppies chew anything they get their paws on. The same is true with Dachshunds, as these dogs love to chew household items like shoes, books, and furniture. This destructive behavior is instilled in them naturally, so don’t discourage them harshly.
Instead, be gentle, firmly tell them ” No, ” and take the item from them. Make sure to do so when they’re chewing. If you do it once they are done, they won’t understand what you are correcting them for.
Provide your pup with chewing toys to help them satisfy their urge. Praise them when they chew on the toys, so they know that they are doing the right thing.
Scolding your dog physically or verbally will make them scared of you, which may make your training sessions a headache.
4. Make Them Sociable Through Puppy Kindergarten
Learning socialization is important for Dachshunds, especially in their puppyhood. You can enroll your Doxie in a puppy kindergarten 1 week after they have had their first set of vaccines and deworming. These classes can help them learn how to coexist with other dogs and people. Puppies should be kept up to date with the rest of their vaccination schedule throughout the classes.
These classes will also teach basic obedience skills to your pup in an enjoyable manner. They will learn how to respond when someone commands them to “stand” or “stay.” To get maximum results, you must choose the best trainer for your puppy.
Once your Doxie knows how to get along with other dogs and a week has passed after the entire puppy vaccination schedule is completed, you can take them to your nearby dog-friendly park to help them socialize. This will help them become comfortable with this new life experience.
How to Crate Train a Dachshund
Crate training is essential for Dachshund puppies, as they can spend time in their designated space. This way, they won’t chew household items and can relax in their crate when the outside environment becomes too much for them.
5. Select the Right Crate
To make your dog comfortable, you must get a crate according to their size.
Make sure the crate has enough space for the Doxie to move comfortably, but not too much space for them to use as a bathroom.
There are many crate options available for Dachshunds, so choose a wire crate if your dog is curious and likes to see their surroundings.
An ideal crate for a Doxie puppy should be expandable and adjustable as they grow. For an adult Mini Dachshund, a 24″ x 18″ x 21″ crate is suitable, while a Standard may need a 31″ x 21″ x 24″ crate.
6. Place the Crate in a Room with Human Activity
Dachshunds enjoy being around humans, especially their owners. Placing their crate in a room with lots of human activity, like the living or family room, can prevent them from feeling lonely and help them adjust to their new home.
7. Ensure Your Dachshund is Comfortable
Make sure your dog’s crate is comfortable by adding a soft bed or blanket and a water bowl. Provide safe toys and chew toys to keep them entertained and satisfied.
Remember, the crate should not be seen as punishment but as a training tool. Avoid leaving your pup inside the crate for long periods, as dogs are social animals and thrive on human companionship.
8. Train Your Dog to Stay in the Crate
Help your Doxie adjust to staying in the crate for longer periods by starting with short intervals and gradually increasing the time. Use a one-word command, like “crate,” to get them to enter the crate, and reward them with treats for positive reinforcement.
If your dog whines or cries when left alone, avoid comforting them as it may reinforce the behavior. Instead, ignore the crying and reward them when they are calm in the crate. Take them out regularly to empty their bladder.
If you have concerns about your dog’s behavior, consider consulting a vet for advice.
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How to Potty Train a Dachshund
Potty training teaches a Dachshund where and when to go to the bathroom. It is easier if your puppy is already crate-trained. Remember that house training takes time and patience.
9. Set a Feeding and Bathroom Schedule
Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, potty training can be done at any age, but it is easier in puppyhood. Start by establishing a feeding and bathroom routine for your Dachshund.
Take your dog outside to go potty about 15 minutes after they finish eating, and ensure they go first thing in the morning, before bedtime, and after spending time in the crate. Puppies can hold their bladder for an hour for every month of age.
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