Are Dachshunds Easy to Train or Just Too Stubborn?

Dachshunds are known for their spunky attitude, independent nature, and sometimes stubborn behavior, which gives them a reputation for being hard to train. While many believe this myth, the truth is they can be fairly easy to train with the right motivation, consistency, and understanding of their unique temperament.

From my experience, putting real effort into training my third Dachshund led to a well-behaved, responsive dog. With effective, real-life training and patience, Dachshunds can absolutely become obedient and stress-free companions.

Are Dachshunds Easy to Train or Just Too Stubborn? – Short Answer

Dachshunds are intelligent but can be stubborn, which may make training a bit challenging. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, they can be trained effectively.

Why Dachshunds Seem Hard to Train

Many dachshund owners find that training these little dogs can be surprisingly challenging. The personality, traits, and natural characteristics of the breed are shaped by their unique history and biology. Originally bred in Germany as hunting companions, dachshunds were used to flush and hunt tough animals like badgers.

In fact, the name badger dog comes from this very role. Their short legs helped them dig into burrows and chase prey. Over time, larger variants were developed to go after deers and foxes, while smaller types targeted hares and ferrets, creating a variety of sizes within the breed.

This hunting background makes them incredibly prey motivated and naturally stubborn, which some people mistake for being disobedient. For inexperienced owners, tasks like toilet training can be especially difficult without patience and structure.

But with consistent dog training sessions, the right motivation, and a deep understanding of their temperament, dachshunds can show real progress. The key is staying patient, recognizing their strong instincts, and working with—not against—them to build good behaviour habits that stick.

The Truth About Training Dachshunds

Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt tough game like badgers, fox, rabbits, and even wild boar—animals that fight back. These little dogs would run ahead of the hunters or burrow underground to locate prey, often operating on their own when confronted.

This led them to develop traits like tenacity, independent thinking, and the willingness to persevere. While that made them highly intelligent, it also turned them into clever, relentless problem solvers.

I often explain that Dachshunds use their smarts and ingenuity to find an easier way to get a reward, like trying to convince you to hand over a treat without fully doing what you ask (like not sitting all the way). These same traits can make them seem stubborn or hard to train, but they’re actually whip smart and eager to learn.

The stereotype that Dachshunds can’t be trained is simply not true. With consistency and patience, they can be just as easy to train as any other breed. So, to answer the big question—can a Dachshund be trained? The answer is a confident: absolutely!

Keys to Successful Dachshund Training

The keys to successful training for a Dachshund start with positive reinforcement and offering irresistible rewards to maintain high motivation. Begin in low-distraction environments, where your dog can focus without competing stimuli. Be firm but fair, avoiding mixed signals that can confuse your Dachshund and lead to stubborn behavior.

Use methods they understand, and repeat cues with consistency. Repetition and lifelong reinforcement are crucial to maintain good behavior over time. Clear communication, patience, and building a strong bond of trust will make training smoother and more effective in the long run.

Common Dachshund Training Challenges

While training a Dachshund can be rewarding, certain challenges are common due to their breed nature and instincts. Potty training issues, especially for new owners, often stem from their stubborn habits and sensitivity to routine, which can be managed better with a structured confinement method.

Their vocal and territorial tendencies also make barking a frequent concern, especially when they sense movement or noises near their home.

Another hurdle is reactivity toward dogs or strangers, which usually stems from a lack of proper early exposure. Their prey drive and love of digging are rooted in their hunting background. With consistency, early socialization, and firm but gentle discipline, you can manage these behaviors effectively.

Tips for Handling Training Challenges

Managing training issues with a Dachshund starts by using treat-based strategies like rewarding quiet behavior consistently to reduce barking. Combine this with mental stimulation through toys such as snuffle mats and treat dispensers to help manage energy and keep your dog focused.

Early socialization with well-behaved dogs can ease reactivity, while creating calm introductions helps build confidence around new people. Avoid giving mixed discipline or confusing commands, which can undermine your efforts. Keep your training grounded in clarity, consistency, and positive reinforcement for best results.

Final Verdict: Are Dachshunds Hard to Train?

Dachshunds aren’t necessarily hard to train—they’re just different. With patience, consistent effort, and good communication, they can become well-trained, polite companions.

Smart owners who truly understand the breed and its unique personality tend to thrive. Success with Dachshunds comes from adapting to their temperament and using reward-based training that matches their motivation and behavior.

FAQ’s

Are Dachshunds difficult to house train?

Dachshunds are one of the hardest breeds to fully housetrain if you’re not diligent, but using a step-by-step outdoor routine makes a huge difference. Their independent nature, rooted in their original purpose of hunting quarry in holes without backup, makes them smart, but also stubborn and challenging to train indoors.

Is a Dachshund a good dog for beginners?

If you have enough time, space, and flexibility in your life, a miniature dachshund could be the ideal first-time dog for you. Their compact size and big personality make them a great fit for owners ready to invest in training and care.

Are Dachshunds high maintenance?

Dachshunds are a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. They shed minimally, do not need to be bathed often, and their smooth coat can easily be wiped down with a damp cloth between baths to keep them clean.

Is it difficult to train a Dachshund?

Dachshunds are super smart and not hard to train—they can be taught almost anything you want them to learn. The real difference between them and some other breeds is that they may be more interested in getting what they want rather than doing what you want, so understanding their motivation is key.