If you’ve just brought home a miniature dachshund, you might have noticed their curious, stubborn side—they love digging into blankets or ignoring calls when they’re sniffing something interesting. Many new owners struggle with training these little pups, thinking their small size means they’re easy to manage, but their big personalities need the right approach to thrive. The key is to work with their natural instincts, not against them, to build a happy, well-behaved companion.
Miniature dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, so they have a strong prey drive and love to explore—this is why they often pull on leashes or chase small animals. Positive reinforcement works best with them; they respond far better to praise and treats than scolding. When your dachshund follows a command like “sit” or stops chewing on shoes, reward them right away with a tiny piece of chicken or excited words (“What a good pup—you nailed that!”). Punishment, like yelling or tapping their nose, will only make them fearful and less likely to listen, which goes against most Western pet welfare values.
Start with basic commands early, keeping sessions short—3 to 5 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day—to match their short attention spans. For leash training, use a harness instead of a collar to protect their long backs (a common health concern for dachshunds). If they pull, stop walking and wait for them to calm down before moving again—this teaches them that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go. At home, give them a designated digging spot, like a box filled with blankets, to satisfy their natural urge without ruining your couch.
When taking your miniature dachshund out in public, always clean up after them with waste bags—this is not just polite, but legally required in most areas, and fines can add up quickly. Make sure they’re up to date on core vaccines, like rabies and distemper, which is essential for their health and often a must if you want to take them to dog parks or pet-friendly cafes. Also, be mindful of their size in busy areas—keep them close to you to avoid accidents with bikes or large dogs.
Training a miniature dachshund takes patience, but seeing their stubbornness turn into eagerness to learn is incredibly rewarding. By using positive reinforcement, working with their instincts, and following local rules, you’ll build a strong bond with your pup. Before long, you’ll have a well-trained companion who’s just as happy curling up on your lap as they are exploring the neighborhood—proof that a little consistency goes a long way with these charming dogs.
Golden Retrievers are smart, eager-to-please pups, but potty training still needs patience—especially when you factor in local rules. Start by sticking to a strict schedule: take them out first thing in the morning, right after meals, and before bed.
French bulldog puppies have tiny bladders, so consistency is key when teaching them where to go. Start by taking your pup outside first thing in the morning, right after meals, and before bed—these are prime times they’ll need to relieve themselves.
Dachshunds have a stubborn streak that can make potty training feel tricky, but consistency paired with their love for praise turns it into a manageable process.
If you’ve just brought home a miniature dachshund, you might have noticed their curious, stubborn side—they love digging into blankets or ignoring calls when they’re sniffing something interesting.
Watching your dog cower behind the couch at the sound of a doorbell, or freeze up when a stranger visits, can make you wonder: Will they ever feel brave enough to relax?
When your otherwise perfect companion suddenly becomes a midnight alarm clock barking at apparently empty corners of your Brooklyn apartment
