How to Potty Train a Dachshund

Both standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds are intelligent, highly trainable breeds that are willing to please. But because of their unusually long spines and inbreeding, they are more prone to urinary problems than other dogs. Adult miniature dachshunds can only hold their bladders for about 4 hours, while standards can often go to 6 or sometimes 8 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric cleaner Crate (optional)

When You've Got to Go, You've Got to Go

1. Place your new dachshund on a designated toilet area outside of your home even before you bring him into the house for the first time. Wait until he squats, then praise him.

2. If you see her in the house circling and sniffing the floor, quickly remove the dachshund outside to the toilet area. Remember to praise the dog when she squats.

3. Hire a dogwalker, dog sitter or family friend to give your dachshund a lunchtime potty break when you are at work. Or you can come home during your lunch break. If you cannot get someone to watch the dog, expect to clean up messes.

4. Use a crate only if you think it's necessary. This is meant as the dog's den, not a place for him to be sent as punishment. Having such a create helps teach the dog to not soil his own bed. If you plan on traveling with your dachshund, the crate will become a familiar object, which will make traveling a lot easier.

5. Clean up all accidents with an enzyme-based cleaner, which will help eliminate all traces of urine or feces odor. A dog sniffs for those scents to determine where to go.

Tips & Warnings

• Dachshunds are prone to kidney infections and spinal problems that can make them unable to control their bowels or bladders. See your vet if accidents start suddenly or continue for weeks. Dog diapers are available for incontinence. Even adult dachshunds rescued from puppy-mill cages can become housebroken. Neutering male dachshunds will help reduce the number of times they urinate in the house, because they will not have the need to mark territory.
• Never rub your dachshund's nose in an accident. That only teaches her that you are cruel. Dogs do not realize that you are yelling at them because they peed in the house an hour ago. You have to catch them in the act before they understand why you are yelling. Never hit your dog. If you catch him having an accident, just scoop him up and take him outside. He will get the idea.

Resources

• ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs
• Doggy Diapers and Belly Bands
• How to Clean Dog Urine