Dachshund Training Profile
Dachshunds are intelligent yet notoriously stubborn, requiring significant patience and high-value rewards. They learn quickly but often follow their own agenda, making consistent, short training sessions essential. Potty training can be challenging, necessitating a strict routine. Owners should prioritize spinal health by using harnesses and avoiding jumping during daily exercise.
TRAINABILITY
Hard
2 out of 10
MENTAL STIMULATION NEEDS
Above Average
7 out of 10
LOVE FOR GRUB
Eats Everything
10 out of 10
TRAINING FAQ
Are Dachshunds easy to train?
Stubborn
3 out of 10
Dachshunds are intelligent but notoriously stubborn, requiring patience and consistency from owners. While they learn quickly, their independent nature and strong prey drive can lead to selective hearing. Using high-value food rewards and keeping training sessions short and fun is essential for success with this determined breed.
Are Dachshunds stubborn?
Very Stubborn
8 out of 10
Yes, Dachshunds are famously stubborn. Originally bred for independent hunting, they often prefer their own agenda over yours. Training requires extreme patience, consistency, and high-value rewards. Keep sessions short and fun to manage their independent spirit and ensure they stay engaged with the learning process.
How to train a Dachshund puppy?
Above Average
7 out of 10
Train your Dachshund puppy using short, consistent, and positive reinforcement sessions. Their independent nature requires patience and high-value treats to maintain focus. Prioritize early socialization and establish a strict potty routine. Remember to discourage jumping to protect their delicate backs while building a strong leader-follower relationship.
How difficult is to potty train a Dachshund puppy?
Difficult
3 out of 10
Potty training a Dachshund can be difficult and typically takes between 6 months to a year of consistent effort. Known for their independent nature, stubbornness, and small bladders, they require frequent outdoor breaks and positive reinforcement. Establishing a strict routine and using crate training is often necessary to overcome their reputation for being difficult to housebreak.
How many walks does a Dachshund need?
Average Needs
5 out of 10
An adult Dachshund typically needs 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity. While they are active, their short legs and spinal risks mean they benefit from multiple shorter walks (2 to 3 times a day) rather than one long trek.
What is the best daily routine for a Dachshund?
Moderate
6 out of 10
A Dachshund’s daily routine should focus on spinal health and weight management. Provide 30 to 60 minutes of low-impact exercise, ideally split into two or three short walks on flat ground to avoid overtaxing their frame. Feed adult Dachshunds twice daily to maintain a lean weight and reduce spinal pressure. Essential daily care includes short, 5-minute training sessions with positive reinforcement and strictly avoiding activities like jumping off furniture or climbing stairs. Always use a harness for walks and incorporate mental stimulation through scent games or puzzle toys.
VET INSIGHTS
Dachshunds are intelligent but notoriously stubborn independent thinkers, requiring extreme patience and high-value rewards. Due to their unique anatomy, protecting spinal health by avoiding jumping and managing weight is critical. While housebreaking and obedience are challenging, consistent routines, low-impact exercise, and early socialization help these loyal, vocal companions thrive in a structured, patient home environment.

Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian
Researcher
Dog breed specialist
Verified
