How to Train a Dachshund

Whenever a dog owner enters a dachshund in an obedience class, he should get extra points just for trying. These independent, intelligent dogs have their own ideas as to how they should behave. That said, however, with time and patience, a determined owner can train a dachshund to obey.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dachshund
• Dog Treats
• Patience

Before You Begin

1. Create a plan. Decide what behavior you think is essential for your dachshund and make a plan to teach him these things one item at a time.
   

2. Fill your pockets with your dog's favorite treats. Dried liver treats are often popular, however, small bites of carrots can be a favorite.

3. Exercise your dachshund before you begin a training session. A tired dog is a good dog and more likely to obey your commands.

Steps to Success

4. Start small. Break the behavior into a series of small steps. Start training with the first small behavior; remember to be patient with your dachshund.

5. Reward frequently. Dachshunds are often very motivated by food. Each small success should be rewarded with a small treat. If you use high-calorie treats, you may need to cut back on the dog's dinner later.

6. Shape the dachshund's behavior. Gradually add each successive step, continuing to offer rewards frequently.

7. Gradually decrease the frequency of treats used in training. It is important that the dachshund eventually learn to obey without a reward.

8. End each training session on a positive note. Finish with a command the dog can easily obey so you can treat and praise the dachshund generously.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice often. Several short training sessions every day will gradually lead to success while longer less frequent sessions will make learning more difficult for your dachshund.
• Start working in a quiet place with no distractions. Once the dachshund has mastered the desired behavior, distractions can gradually be added to the workplace.
• Be alert. Dachshunds are clever and will happily try to outsmart you at any opportunity.
• Never hit the dachshund if he fails to obey--this negative reinforcement will only slow the dog's progress.