Guide to Dachshund Potty Training

Dachshund Potty Training is not for the faint of heart!

I won't try to sugarcoat this. Dachshunds can be difficult to housebreak.

Stubborn by nature, many Dachshund puppies don't see the point in going ALL THE WAY OUTSIDE to go to the bathroom. Especially if it is cold and wet outside, your little doxie may just decide to do its business on your nice clean carpet.

Like all puppy training tasks, patience and persistence will get you through this difficult period.

Let's talk about the important basics of Dachshund potty training:

One: Small dog syndrome

Your Dachshund,like all small dog breeds, has a small bladder and throughout their life will need to relieve themselves more frequent than large breed dogs. Some may argue this point, but all I know is Nika, our Rottweiler, can sit on her bed ALL DAY, without ever needing to take a bathroom break. Daisy,our female Dachshund, on the other hand, will need to be taken out multiple times during the day. Yes, miniature Dachshunds are more high maintenance at times than your average prom queen.

Two: Puppy Problems

In general, puppies lack the bladder and bowel control of an adult dog. Just like babies, by the time your Dachshund puppy realizes she may need to go to the bathroom, it is just too late. Good new is that as they age their bladder control increases greatly.

Three: Crate Training

Remember crate training? It is very important to crate your puppy at night. The crate will become his den and home. All dogs will avoid pooping and peeing in their own space. It just wouldn't be right? Would it? This desire to keep their house clean helps them develop bladder and bowel control right from the start and is an essential tool in your arsenal of housebreaking a Dachshund.

Four: Pick the Place

Pick out a designated spot where your Dachshund will do its business. It should be close by so your pup won't have to travel far when the urge strikes. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and once they learn ...THIS IS THE SPOT. They will be much more likely to pee/poop on command. Ideally the place should be protected from the elements. Dachshunds are not happy about going outside in cold, wet environments and this will really make your life difficult if they refuse to go outside! Pick a spot close to the house that is protected from falling rain, or a large tree or bush that gives some protection.

Five: Set a schedule

One thing that helps tremendously is to set a potty schedule that the dog will become accustomed to following. Early on it will seem like you are taking your new little friend out constantly! A 8-12 week old pup has to be taken out almost every HOUR. Again KEEP 'EM in A CRATE at night unless you want to be up all night. Other key times to take your puppy out is after every meal, after sleeping, after playing, and always before going to bed.

Six: Use ONE command

Consistency in dog training requires you to use one command for each desired action. Dachshund potty training is no different. Typical commands are "GO POTTY", "POTTY", "DO YOUR BUSINESS", "HURRY UP". Don't pick one that you would be embarrassed to say in public or that you don't want your kids saying. You can use your imagination on this one! As your dog sniffs around for their spot start saying your command word to reinforce the behavior. Of course, lavish praise after each bathroom break and you will well be on your way to successful Dachshund potty training.

Seven: Know the Signs!

Dachshund Potty training requires constant vigilance to minimize "accidents". You need to be aware when your Dachshund puppy is thinking about peeing without permission. If he/she starts walking in circles and sniffing the ground relentlessly, bring him to his spot ASAP. You want to minimize the time your pup is unsupervised so you can avoid accidents.

Eight: BE Patient:

Remember that your Dachshund is learning a new skill that takes time. Your Puppy is also developing the physical ability to control a bodily function. Through love and patience your adorable puppy will master Dachshund Potty training. Rest assured, a healthy six month old Dachshund can hold it for 3 to 4 hours while an adult will need a bathroom break every 4 to 6 hours. Once your Dachshund has not had an accident for 1 month they are considered house trained. Congratulations to you both once you achieve this difficult goal!

Good Luck with all of your Dachshund Training!

Now that you have some of the basics down...

Click here for Part Two of Dachshund Potty Training

This article will show you step by step how to housebreak your Dachshund Puppy!