If you’ve just welcomed a Dachshund into your life — congratulations!
These little dogs are loyal, playful, and endlessly entertaining. But let’s be honest… Dachshunds also come with a side of stubbornness. Their curious, independent streak can make obedience training feel like a test of patience.
We can tell you this: training your Dachshund doesn’t have to be hard — it just needs to be smart, consistent, and fun.
Let’s walk through how to train your Dachshund (puppy or adult) using gentle, effective methods that actually work.
Why Early Dachshund Training Matters
The best time to start training your Dachshund is as soon as they come home — even at 8 weeks old.
Dachshund puppies are eager learners when guided with patience and positive energy. Early training will help your puppy develop good habits that will become second nature to them as they grow. Additionally, starting training early will help avoid behavioural issues that can arise later in life.
Starting early helps you:
- Prevent future behavior problems (like barking or digging)
- Build trust and communication
- Shape good habits that last a lifetime
Even if you’ve adopted an older Dachshund, it’s never too late. Adult Dachshunds can learn new commands too — they just need consistency and extra encouragement.
Consistency is Key
Dachshunds are intelligent, but they’ll test boundaries. That’s why consistency is key.
👉 Use the same command words each time
👉 Reward the same behaviors
👉 Make sure everyone in your household follows the same rules
Your Dachshund will learn faster when they understand exactly what you expect.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Forget old-school punishment methods — they only make Dachshunds more stubborn.
Positive reinforcement training is the secret to success.
Reward your Dachshund with:
- Small, healthy treats
- Enthusiastic praise (“Good boy!” or “Good girl!”)
- Playtime or cuddles
They’ll quickly learn that good behavior = great rewards.
💡 Tip: Dachshunds respond best to training that feels like a game. Keep it light and upbeat!
Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun
Because Dachshunds have short attention spans, train for just 5–10 minutes at a time.
You can do multiple mini-sessions each day instead of one long one.
Quick daily sessions help:
- Reinforce learning in real-world moments
- Keep your dog engaged
- Prevent frustration
Essential Dachshund Obedience Commands
Here are the five must-know commands every Dachshund should learn — for safety, obedience, and peace of mind.
“Sit” Command
Purpose: Helps your Dachshund focus and calm down.
Hold a treat close to their nose, then slowly move it upward.
As they follow it, their bottom will naturally lower — that’s your moment to say “Sit!”
Reward and repeat!
“Stay” Command
Purpose: Keeps your Dachshund safe around doors, roads, or guests.
Start with your dog in a sitting position.
Show your palm and say “Stay.”
If they hold still for even a second, reward and release.
Gradually increase distance and time as they improve.
“Come” Command
Purpose: Vital for recall and off-leash safety.
Crouch down, say your dog’s name followed by “Come!” in a cheerful voice.
Reward immediately when they run to you — make it a party!
Never punish a slow recall — you want them to associate “Come” with positive experiences.
“Heel” Command
Purpose: Teaches leash manners (no more pulling!).
Keep a treat near your leg as you walk and say “Heel.”
If your Dachshund forges ahead, stop walking and reset.
With consistency, they’ll learn that walking calmly by your side = forward progress.
“Leave It” Command
Purpose: Stops your Dachshund from grabbing harmful or off-limits items.
Hold a treat in your closed hand and say “Leave it.”
Wait until your dog looks away or stops pawing.
Then reward them with a different treat from your other hand.
Repeat daily until they understand that ignoring temptation brings bigger rewards.
Bonus Tip: Mental Stimulation Matters
A bored Dachshund is a mischievous Dachshund!
Add puzzle toys, scent games, and brief training refreshers to their day to keep that clever mind engaged.
Final Thoughts: Patience + Consistency = Success
Training your Dachshund takes time, but it’s absolutely worth it.
With early, consistent training and plenty of positive reinforcement, you’ll shape a confident, obedient, and happy little dog who loves learning with you.
Remember:
Dachshunds aren’t being stubborn — they’re being smart.
Teach them in a way that makes obedience feel like their idea.
Your reward?
A loyal, loving companion who listens, trusts, and brings endless joy to your life.
FAQs About Dachshund Training
How hard is it to train a Dachshund?
Dachshunds can be stubborn, but they’re smart and food-motivated. With positive methods and consistency, they learn quickly.
What’s the best age to start Dachshund training?
Start as soon as you bring your puppy home — ideally between 8–12 weeks. But older Dachshunds can learn too!
Why does my Dachshund ignore commands?
Usually, because training is too repetitive or there are too many distractions. Go back a step, make it fun, and use high-value treats.
How often should I train my Dachshund?
Short, daily sessions (5–10 minutes) are best. Practice in different settings to reinforce behavior.
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