Dachshunds are an incredibly intelligent breed that can master simple tasks fairly quickly. However, the one exception to this known fact is potty training as dachshunds are notoriously difficult to potty train.
It takes a lot of time and patience to get a dachshund to go to the bathroom in designated areas. Some dog experts tell owners to avoid crate training, but not with a dachshund. Since dachshunds tend to have a mind of their own and do as they please, you need to teach them control, so begin with a crate.
Crate Training:
- Choose a crate that is big enough for the dog to move around in, but not too much space to where the dog can go to the bathroom.
- Show your dachshund the crate and use treats for enticing him to enter the crate. Make this experience positive with a lot of praise.
- Place your dog’s food bowl into the crate and once inside, shut the crate. Avoid forceful entry at all times.
- Use a simple command such as “go to bed” to get your dog to enter the crate either with a treat or without. Use the commands of “come” and “okay” for your dachshund to exit.
- After your dachshund has gotten used to the crate, following your commands and learning control, it is now time to teach your dachshund to go outside for the bathroom.
Outside Potty Training:
- Learn the cues your dachshund uses to indicate they need to go. This may be scratching at a door, excitement, and running around the house as if looking for something.
- On a regular basis, or at least every 1 to 2 hours, show your dachshund the spot where they are to go to the bathroom outside and emphasize the words “potty time” as much as possible.
- Provide rewards when your dachshund successfully goes to the bathroom outside and if you catch an accident inside, interrupt it and bring your dog outside immediately.
The most important tip to remember when potty training a dachshund, have patience and practice your training as much as possible. If you are looking to add a quality dachshund to your family, contact Patti’s Dachshund Farm today.