How to Teach a Dachshund to Walk on a Leash

The dachshund comes from a long line of German hunting dogs and its instinct to chase anything that moves is a challenge many dachshund owners must deal with. While this breed is incredibly bright, its inbred hunting instinct may cause it to dart back and forth on its leash, barking at cats and dogs as if it were ready to chase them down and eat them. This may cause a problem for both the dachshund and his owner when larger dogs accept the challenge and approach the smaller dog. Training is necessary in order to enjoy your walks.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog harness 6-ft. Leash Treats

1. Fit your dachshund with a harness, not a collar. Because of its short height and elongate body shape, a dachshund’s body, especially its spine, may suffer from pressure exerted upon a collar around the neck. Your dog may wear a collar but the leash must be attached to a harness to avoid injuries.

2. Place your dog on the ground on your left side and hold the leash in your left hand with the excess in your right hand. After your dog becomes familiar with the leash, you may give it a little slack and hold the leash in only your left hand.

3. Allow your dachshund to familiarize itself with the ground, sniffing or walking around a bit but stand still until it sits down. This is a rule you will always follow. Do not let your dog pull you into walking. The walk does not start until your dog is sitting obediently.

4. Use a command, such as “heel” or “let’s go,” to start the walk and step out with your left foot, the foot closest to your dog. Do not drag your dog. Look straight ahead and keep slight tension on the leash. When you dog moves in the same direction, praise her and continue to walk.

5. Stop immediately if your dachshund pulls on the leash. Say nothing to your dog. Just stop and look straight ahead. After a while, your dog will wonder why you are not walking and it will sit down or come back to you. When it does, praise it and begin walking again, using the command and stepping out with your left foot.

6. Repeat the procedure every single time your dachshund lunges in front of your or pulls on the leash. Your first walking session may be more “standing” sessions than walking, but eventually your pooch will get the idea.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry your dachshund out to the sidewalk, pick it up, and carry it home when the walk session is over. Eventually, you will be able to walk from your front door with ease if you follow this technique.