Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany as hunting dogs, specifically to track and flush out badgers from underground burrows. Their job required them to be fearless, tenacious, and highly independent thinkers, capable of making quick decisions without relying on human direction.

This independence, while essential in the field, has contributed to their reputation for being one of the more stubborn dog breeds. Dachshunds often like to do things their own way, which can present a challenge when it comes to training. They’re intelligent and quick learners, but they need to be motivated to follow commands—usually through positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency.

While they may not be the easiest breed to train, with the right approach and commitment, dachshunds can become well-mannered and obedient companions.

Here’s what you need to know when training your dachshund:

1. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane method for training dachshunds. This approach involves rewarding desirable behavior—like going to the toilet outside—with treats, praise, and affection. Dachshunds quickly learn to associate positive actions with enjoyable outcomes, making them more likely to repeat the behavior.

Avoid shouting or punishing your dachshund for accidents indoors, as this can cause confusion, fear, and even lead to anxiety or defensive aggression. Instead, focus on building a strong, trusting bond. A confident, well-adjusted dachshund is more likely to respond positively to training.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Patience and consistency are essential. For example, if you don’t want your dachshund on the sofa, that rule must always apply—regardless of how cute he looks. Mixed signals will only confuse him. Establish household rules early and ensure everyone in the family enforces them in the same way.

3. Be Consistent

Dachshunds are clever and often cheeky little characters who may push boundaries just to get your attention. While it’s important to be loving and kind, you must also be firm and consistent. That doesn’t mean raising your voice; it means calmly correcting unwanted behaviors and following through every time. Your dachshund needs to understand that you’re in charge, not the other way around.

4. Dedicate Time to Training

Bringing home a dachshund puppy requires time and commitment. Ideally, take a few weeks off work or ensure someone is available to help during the day. Everyone involved in your dog’s care should follow the same training techniques to avoid confusion. Remember, it can take a few months for a puppy to settle into a new routine and fully grasp the basics, so patience is key.

🐾 Smart Training Tips for Your Dachshund

1. Keep Sessions Short
Dachshunds have naturally short attention spans and need regular rest. Keep training sessions brief—around 10 to 15 minutes each, repeated 3–4 times a day. Short bursts are far more effective than long, exhausting sessions.

2. Reward Immediately
These dogs live in the moment. When your dachshund performs a command—like a precise sit—reward him instantly with praise (“Good boy”) and a treat. Some owners opt for a clicker to provide a clear marker that reinforces the correct behavior and its association with a reward.

3. Minimise Distractions
Young dachshunds are easily distracted by sights, sounds, and smells. Begin training in a quiet, distraction-free area to foster focus. Once basic commands are solid, gradually move outdoors—to your garden, then a quiet park—and eventually places with more stimuli when he is more confident.

4. Keep It Simple
While dachshunds are intelligent and quick learners, overloading them with multiple commands at once can lead to confusion. Focus on one command at a time and only move on once he has mastered it.

5. Incorporate Fun
Training should be enjoyable for both you and your puppy. Once he learns a new command, revisit it frequently—at random times and locations—to reinforce learning, keep his brain active, and strengthen your bond.

6. Socialise Regularly
Early socialisation helps prevent unwanted behaviours like barking or aggression. Arrange supervised short walks with friends’ dogs (after your pup has had all vaccinations), or find local dachshund meetups or training groups to provide exposure to other dogs and people.

With short, focused sessions, immediate rewards, gradual exposure to distractions, and plenty of positive interactions, your dachshund will grow into a well-behaved, confident, and happy member of the family.

Let me know if you’d like me to help with a step-by-step training schedule or an easy-to-print weekly planner!

Keep Building on Training
Training shouldn’t stop once your dachshund masters the basics. These intelligent little dogs thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy learning new things. To keep your dachshund engaged, continue challenging him with more advanced tasks. For example, instead of simply asking him to fetch a toy, teach him to retrieve a specific toy or item by name. This not only reinforces obedience but also keeps his mind active and strengthens your bond.