Miniature Dachshunds Training Tips

Miniature dachshunds are fun-loving, energetic dogs that are extremely loyal. They enjoy spending more time indoors and are suited for apartment living because of their size. Due to their jealous nature, they are not good with small children and may become aggressive. Miniature dachshunds are more timid than the standard dachshund but are also extremely stubborn and often mischievous. These traits make them a little more difficult to train, but it's not impossible. Training requires consistency, patience and a positive attitude.

  1. Potty Training

    • Take the dog outside about 10 or 15 minutes after it finishes eating or drinking a lot of water and directly after sleeping or play time. Use a leash because it familiarizes your dog with it and ensures that your dog stays close to you at all times. A routine is very important for puppies. Schedule meal times and take the dog outside to go potty after every meal and nap. Point the dog to the same place every time you go outside. Provide positive reinforcement such as treats and verbal cues after the dog goes to the bathroom. Dachshunds understand tone of voice, so enthusiastic responses work well. Negative reinforcement, such as hitting the dog or yelling, will only make him become scared of you and reluctant to obey.

    Crate Training

    • Crate training a dog can be difficult for you, as dogs tend to whine and bark for long periods when confined to their crates. This only lasts a short time and crate training will lead to a much more obedient dog in the long run. A crate will prevent the dog from going to the bathroom in the house or tearing or chewing household items. Choose a crate that is big enough for the dog to turn around and lay down. Trouble with potty training is common and the crate can be useful in those types of situations. If the dog does not relieve himself during bathroom trips outside, return him directly to his crate. Do not give the dog any attention while it's in the crate. Wait five minutes, and then take the dog outside again. If he does not go to the bathroom, return him to the crate and repeat until he relieves himself outside.

    Leash Training

    • A young miniature dachshund will most likely resist when first starting with a leash. Leash training will familiarize your dog with a leash and allow it to start associating the leash with being with you and going to fun places, not restrictions or punishments. Keep the training sessions short, around five minutes, and repeat two or three times per day. After hooking the leash to the collar, allow your dog to lead you and don't pull on the leash. If the leash tightens and your dog starts resisting, loosen the leash and speak to the dog in a calm manner. Begin walking and if the dog follows you, stroke him on his side for praise or give him a small treat. Continue with this training until the dog is comfortable on his leash and does not resist walking with you.

    Leash Walking

    • Once your dog is comfortable on the leash, begin the leash-walking training sessions. Continue these sessions two to three times per day for about five minutes per session. When walking a dog, he should never walk in front of you. The dog should be by your side at all times. With the leash in your right hand and the dog on your left side, begin walking with your left foot first. Always begin with your left foot to signal to the dog that it's OK to start walking. If the dog walks in front of you, stop. Do not continue until the dog stops. When he does, give him praise by stroking his side. Continue walking, starting with your left foot again and the dog by your side. Repeat the stopping and starting until the dog is able to walk beside you without trying to dart off or fall behind.