Dachshunds are known by many nicknames, including “Wiener Dogs”, “Sausage Dogs”, “Doxies”, or “Worshonds”. These nicknames are mostly relating to the Dachshund’s unique appearance, which many people relate to a wiener sausage or hot dog. However, understanding how to train a Dachshund requires that you are aware of some of the temperamental and behavioral traits of this breed. Dachshunds are scent hounds, with an enhanced sense of smell. This makes them naturally curious about any new smells that are present in their domain. They love to play, and are often inclined to chase small animals that they see outdoors. However, Dachshunds are also well-known for being a fairly stubborn breed, which can make Dachshund training a bit of a challenge. Here is some information to help you understand the best way to go about Dachshund training.
How to Train a Dachshund Puppy
Dachshunds are already a fairly small breed, and their puppies are even smaller! Dachshund puppies are usually quite rambunctious, eager to play with other members of their household “pack”. Dachshund puppies also love to chew, and may be inclined to destroy shoes, socks, household objects and furniture if not watched closely. It’s best to begin Dachshund training at a very early age, since training may take a bit of time to be successful.
Begin by allowing your Dachshund puppy to become comfortable in your home. Since Dachshunds are naturally curious, they will most likely want to investigate the unique sights, smells and sounds in their new environment. Allow them to roam unhindered, though it’s best if you keep a close eye on your Dachshund puppy in order to keep them from getting into any trouble. Many people choose to “Dog-Proof” their houses before bringing a Dachshund puppy home for the first time, in order to avoid any initial problems.
Dachshund puppies also love receiving rewards for good behavior, and will respond well to a training program that incorporates positive reinforcement. Puppies are naturally playful, so be patient if it is initially difficult for your Dachshund puppy to focus on training.
How to Crate Train a Dachshund
Dachshunds will be able to respond well to crate training, though you do have to be careful of your Dachshund feeling “abandoned” while left in a crate. Dachshunds have a temperament that requires them to have constant companionship, as they are prone to becoming lonely if left on their own for too long. Because of this, you need to approach crate training with caution. Being confined to a crate is something that can incite a Dachshund to participate in destructive behavior, or to develop behavioral problems.
Purchase a crate that is large enough for your Dachshund, though is not big enough so that they will have room to go to the bathroom or have other “accidents”. Making your Dachshund’s crate cozy and comfortable is key to a successful training program. Try to place bedding material on the entirety of the crate’s floor, covering any uncomfortable corners or protruding material. It’s best if you use bedding that already has your Dachshund’s scent on it, since this will allow them to feel more comfortable inside the crate. Don’t ever use crate confinement to punish a Dachshund! This can be extremely detrimental to crate training.
How to House Train a Dachshund
Even when house trained, it is often said that not every Dachshund can be 100% reliable not to go to the bathroom indoors. Because of this, it’s very important to begin house training your Dachshund as soon as possible. Most Dachshunds will do well when house trained in combination with a crate, since this will greatly increase your chances of success. Try to place the crate in a room where there is constant activity, since this will prevent your Dachshund from becoming lonely while confined to the crate during house training.
A good method to use is to feed your Dachshund their meals while they are inside the crate. After mealtimes, close the door and allow your Dachshund to stay in the crate for one hour (or less). After this time, put a leash on your Dachshund’s collar, and take them to a designated “potty” area outdoors. Most Dachshunds will go to the bathroom at this time, especially if they are still in their puppy stage. Reward your Dachshund with treats and praise when they go to the bathroom outdoors.
Dachshund Training Tips
In general, a Dachshund that is allowed to gain a sense of “dominance” in a household will be much more difficult to train. Try to establish your role as your dog’s teacher with a gentle but firm attitude about training your Dachshund. Training a Dachshund does not have to be a difficult task, as long as you are patient and understanding about the specific behavioral traits of your Dachshund.
