5 Key Tips for Potty Training Your Dachshund Puppy
Are you thinking of adopting a new member of the family?
Dachshund puppies are the perfect addition to any family. But, there are a few things you should know before you take the plunge, potty training being one of the most important.
No one wants their puppy to turn the house into their own private little bathroom, but that’s exactly what they will do if you’re not careful.
We have put together a quick list of tips and tricks for potty training your new little dachshund puppy terror.
Read on.
Take Them Out Regularly
First thing you have to know about potty training a dachshund is that you have to take them outside constantly. Since they are such small dogs, they have tiny little organs, including bladders and bowels.
Your cute little puppy is basically a poop machine.
Try to take them outside during key events such as morning time, before and after work, and bedtime.
It’s really important that they can expect certain potty times, but they should also be taken out at least every 2 to 3 hours.
Never Use Puppy Pads
Perhaps the most helpful tip we can offer is to never use puppy pads.
Sure, they seem like a great idea. Stop your puppy from peeing on the carpet and have them pee on their own little pad instead. But that is precisely the problem, their pad becomes their own little bathroom.
When you use puppy pads you’re teaching them to go to the bathroom inside the house instead of outside the house, so it can be particularly tricky to transition from puppy pads to outside grass patches.
Just don’t do it.
Create a Schedule and Stick to It
As we said, it’s important for puppies to have a reliable schedule so they can know when to expect a bathroom break. It’s not fair to make them hold it and not know how long they’re going to have to hold it for.
Giving them a schedule lets them expect when they will be able to go, and in turn, gives them a goal to hold it.
Create a daily schedule and stick to it. In this case, consistency is the most important thing for potty training.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Always use positive reinforcement when training your little puppy.
You might think that putting their nose in it or smacking their butt for pooping in the house is a good training technique, but the fact is these are old techniques. Puppies don’t understand why we are hurting them, only that we are.
Instead, invest in a bag of puppy training treats. You can get them at any pet store and they are pretty cheap. Bring them with you when you go on walks and outside to potty. When your dog is successful, give them lots of love, praise, and one treat.
Keep the positive reinforcement consistent, as this is key.
Love Your Dachshund Puppy!
It really isn’t that difficult to potty train your dachshund puppy.
While they will initially argue with you, not unlike a pubescent teenager, they will eventually give in and learn what the rules are.
Think you’re ready to adopt your dachshund puppy? Check out our dogs.
