How to Potty Train Dachshund

Standard short haired dachshund.

A popular breed of dog, dachshunds are sometimes referred to as wiener dogs because they have a long tube-like torso that contrasts with their short legs. Potty training these dogs can be a challenge, but if you know some tricks and commit yourself to it, you can have your wiener dog potty trained in no time.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Dog crate
• Treats
• Patience

1. Setup a schedule for walking and feeding your dog. For example, walk your dog before work, after work and after he has eaten. Walk your dachshund at least every seven hours or so, and stick to this schedule so he can get into a routine.

2. Set up a crate that is large enough for a dachshund, about 24 inches in length, and fill it with a water bowl and flat pillow or blanket. You want your dog to be comfortable in the crate and to associate it with a warm feeling of home.

3. Place your dog in the crate, and give her a treat. This will help her feel at ease with her new bedroom and relate the crate with positive things.

4. Begin following your walking and feeding schedule strictly, and place your dog in his crate when he will be left alone or at night for sleeping.

5. Following each walk in which your dog goes to the bathroom, reward her with a treat to enforce that she did the right thing, and give her smiling praise.

6. Don't slap or kick your pet if he has any accidents, which will naturally happen in the beginning. Instead, take her to the area of the accident, and reprimand her in a deep, stern voice.

7. Watch for signs that your pet may need to go to the bathroom. If your pet is sniffing around the floor, runs to the front door or seems to become antsy, take him out for five or 10 minutes to see if he needs to go.

8. Stick to your regular walking and feeding schedule, along with the other steps, for a month or two, and your dachshund should be potty trained. If not, you may want to talk with your vet, because the dog may have a health problem.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dog has an accident inside, clean it up with a special pet urine cleaner you can get at most pet stores or with baking soda, which will get rid of the odor and should prevent your dog from having another accident in that area.

References

• Great Potty Training Tips