Training a sausage dog, also known as a Dachshund, can be a rewarding experience. These intelligent, spirited dogs, despite their unique physique, are capable of learning a great deal with consistent and positive reinforcement. Understanding their personality and potential challenges is key to a successful training journey. From basic obedience to more advanced tricks, this guide will walk you through the essentials of training your Dachshund.
Understanding Your Dachshund’s Personality
Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, a task that required courage, tenacity, and a good nose. This history influences their temperament today. They are known for being:
- Brave and Bold: They often don’t realize their small size and can be quite fearless.
- Stubborn and Independent: Their hunting background means they can be strong-willed and may require extra patience during training.
- Loyal and Affectionate: They form strong bonds with their families and can be very cuddly companions.
- Playful and Energetic: Despite their short legs, they have a surprising amount of energy and enjoy interactive play.
- Prone to Barking: They can be vocal, which is a trait that may need management.
Their independent streak doesn’t mean they can’t be trained; it just means you need to find what motivates them and be persistent.
Essential Training Tools and Supplies
Before you begin, ensure you have the right tools to make training sessions effective and enjoyable:
- High-Value Treats: Small, soft, and extra-tasty treats that your Dachshund absolutely loves. These should be used sparingly for rewarding particularly good behavior or learning new commands.
- Clicker: A clicker can be an excellent tool for marking desired behaviors precisely. The click signifies the exact moment the dog did something right, followed immediately by a treat.
- Leash and Collar/Harness: A comfortable, well-fitting collar or harness is essential for walks and training sessions. For Dachshunds, a harness is often recommended to avoid putting pressure on their delicate spine.
- Training Pouch: A convenient way to keep treats easily accessible during training.
- Patience and Consistency: The most crucial elements! Training takes time, and every dog learns at its own pace.
Housetraining Your Dachshund
Housetraining can sometimes be a challenge with Dachshunds due to their determined nature. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Establish a Routine: Take your Dachshund out frequently, especially:
- First thing in the morning.
- After waking up from naps.
- After meals and playtime.
- Before bedtime.
- Choose a Designated Spot: Take your dog to the same spot in the yard each time. This helps them associate that area with elimination.
- Reward Success Immediately: When your Dachshund eliminates in the designated spot, praise them enthusiastically and give them a high-value treat.
- Supervise Closely: Keep a close eye on your Dachshund indoors. If you see signs they need to go (sniffing, circling, whining), quickly take them outside.
- Clean Accidents Thoroughly: If accidents happen, clean them up immediately with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odors that might attract them back to the same spot. Avoid punishing your dog for accidents; it can create fear and anxiety.
Basic Obedience Commands
Training basic commands provides a foundation for good behavior and strengthens your bond.
Sit
- Hold a treat near your Dachshund’s nose.
- Slowly move the treat up and back over their head. As their nose follows the treat, their rear end should naturally lower into a sit.
- The moment their bottom touches the ground, say “Sit,” click (if using a clicker), and give them the treat and praise.
- If they jump up, you’re likely holding the treat too high. If they back up, you might be moving the treat too far back.
Down
- Once your Dachshund knows “Sit,” hold a treat at their nose level.
- Slowly lower the treat straight down between their front paws.
- Continue to drag the treat along the floor away from them. They should follow it into a down position.
- As soon as they are down, say “Down,” click, and reward.
- Be patient, as some Dachshunds are reluctant to lie down completely.
Stay
- Ask your Dachshund to “Sit” or “Down.”
- Hold your hand up in a flat “stop” signal and say “Stay.”
- Take one step back. If they remain in place, immediately step forward, reward them, and praise.
- Gradually increase the distance and duration. If they move, say “Oops!” gently, guide them back to their original spot, and try again with less distance.
Come
This is arguably the most important command for safety.
- Start in a quiet, enclosed area.
- Get down to your Dachshund’s level, open your arms, and say their name followed by “Come!” in a happy, inviting tone.
- When they come to you, offer a generous reward and lots of praise.
- Practice this from increasing distances. Never call your dog to you for something unpleasant (like a bath or nail trim), as this can make them associate coming to you with negative experiences.
Socialization: A Crucial Step
Proper socialization is vital for Dachshunds to grow into well-adjusted adults.
- Expose them to various sights, sounds, and experiences from a young age (after they are fully vaccinated). This includes different people, other well-behaved dogs, various environments (parks, streets, pet-friendly shops), and common household noises.
- Positive experiences are key. Ensure introductions to new things are calm and rewarding, rather than overwhelming.
- Enroll in puppy socialization classes for supervised interaction with other puppies and exposure to different training techniques.
Addressing Common Dachshund Behaviors
Barking
Dachshunds can be prone to barking, often as a way to alert their owners or due to boredom or anxiety.
- Identify the trigger: Is it the doorbell, people walking by, or something else?
- “Quiet” command: Teach a “Quiet” command by rewarding them when they stop barking, even for a moment.
- Manage the environment: If they bark at passersby, block their view with curtains or white noise.
- Ensure they have enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom barking.
Digging
This is a deeply ingrained instinct from their hunting days.
- Provide an appropriate outlet: If they love to dig, consider creating a designated digging pit in your yard filled with sand or loose soil. Bury toys or treats there to encourage digging in the approved spot.
- Supervise and redirect: If you catch them digging where they shouldn’t, interrupt them with a sound and redirect them to their digging pit or an appropriate toy.
- Secure your yard: Ensure fences are secure to prevent them from digging under them.
Separation Anxiety
Dachshunds are very attached to their owners and can develop separation anxiety.
- Gradual departures: Start by leaving for very short periods and gradually increase the time.
- Provide distractions: Leave them with puzzle toys or long-lasting chews when you leave.
- Avoid making a big fuss when leaving or returning, as this can heighten their anxiety.
- Create a safe space: A comfortable crate or bed where they feel secure can be beneficial.
Advanced Training and Tricks
Once your Dachshund has mastered the basics, you can explore more advanced training:
- Leash Manners: Work on loose-leash walking, teaching them to walk beside you without pulling. This involves stopping whenever they pull and only continuing when the leash is slack.
- Tricks: Dachshunds can learn fun tricks like “roll over,” “play dead,” “shake a paw,” or “fetch.” Use positive reinforcement and break down tricks into small, achievable steps.
- Agility and Dog Sports: Some Dachshunds enjoy dog sports like agility or scent work, which can be a great way to provide mental and physical stimulation. However, be mindful of their back health and avoid jumps that are too high.
Nutrition and Health Considerations for Training
- Use small, low-calorie treats during training to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity.
- Be aware of their back health. Dachshunds are prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Avoid high jumps, discourage them from jumping on and off furniture, and maintain a healthy weight. Consult your veterinarian about safe exercise for your Dachshund.
- Ensure they are well-rested before training sessions, as tired dogs are less receptive to learning.
Consistency is Key
The most important aspect of training any dog, especially a Dachshund, is consistency. Everyone in the household should use the same commands and reward system. Be patient, stay positive, and celebrate every small victory. Training is an ongoing process that builds a stronger, happier relationship between you and your beloved Dachshund.
