How to Train a Dachshund to Come When Called
Dachshunds are clever, spirited dogs—but their stubborn streak and strong prey drive make recall training essential for their safety. Teaching your Dachshund to come reliably is not just about obedience; it's your key to preventing dangerous situations when they spot a squirrel or bolt through an open door. While Dachshunds are intelligent and capable learners, their independent nature means consistency and high-value motivation matter more than with easily-trainable breeds. This guide focuses on positive-reinforcement methods that harness your Dachshund's food motivation and natural smarts without triggering their characteristic defiance. With patience and the right rewards, your Dachshund will learn that coming to you is the best decision they can make.
Step-by-step
- 1
Choose Your Recall Cue and High-Value Rewards
Select a distinct word or sound (like "come" or a specific whistle) that you'll use consistently every time. Dachshunds are food-motivated but can be picky—test different treats (small pieces of chicken, cheese, or commercial high-value rewards) to find what makes your dog's eyes light up. Reserve these special treats exclusively for recall training so they stay exciting and novel.
- 2
Build Positive Associations in Low-Distraction Environments
Start indoors or in a quiet, enclosed area where your Dachshund can't wander far or get distracted by prey drive triggers. Call your cue word enthusiastically in a happy, upbeat tone, then immediately reward with the high-value treat and verbal praise the moment your dog looks at you or moves toward you. Repeat this 5–10 times per short training session to keep your stubborn Dachshund engaged and prevent frustration.
- 3
Gradually Increase Distance and Minor Distractions
Once your Dachshund responds reliably indoors, move to a larger space and gradually increase the distance between you and your dog before calling. Introduce very light distractions—like a toy nearby—and reward generously when your dog chooses you over the distraction. Dachshunds' stubbornness means you must make coming to you more rewarding than any alternative.
- 4
Practice in Semi-Controlled Outdoor Settings
Progress to a fenced yard or long training lead (15–20 feet) to practice outdoors where real distractions exist. Call your cue enthusiastically and reward instantly when your dog complies. Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) because even energetic Dachshunds have moderate exercise needs and can lose focus if overtaxed mentally.
- 5
Test and Reinforce Off-Lead Recall Safely
Only practice off-lead recall in secure, enclosed spaces (fully fenced yards) until you're absolutely confident in your dog's response. Continue rewarding every successful recall generously—never call your dog to you for something they dislike (like nail trimming), or they'll associate the cue with negative outcomes. Consistency is critical with stubborn breeds; one lapse can undo weeks of progress.
- 6
Maintain and Troubleshoot Long-Term
Keep recall training fresh with regular practice (at least 3–4 times per week) and random high-value rewards to maintain reliability. If your Dachshund begins ignoring the cue, return to shorter distances and higher-value treats, as stubbornness often reflects insufficient motivation. Never punish failure; instead, make success so rewarding that your clever Dachshund always chooses to comply.
Pro tips
- Use a long training lead (15–20 feet) in outdoor settings until recall is rock-solid; this prevents your clever, stubborn Dachshund from learning they can ignore you and still 'win' by running away.
- Rotate high-value treats to keep them novel—Dachshunds are food-motivated but adapt quickly, so what thrills them today might bore them next week. Variety maintains their enthusiasm and prevents plateau.
- Never call your Dachshund for anything negative (nail trimming, medicine, bath time); always approach them instead. This protects your recall cue and prevents your intelligent dog from learning to associate your call with unpleasant outcomes.
Frequently asked questions
My Dachshund ignores me when he sees a squirrel. How do I compete with prey drive?+
Prey drive is instinctual and powerful in Dachshunds, but you can manage it by avoiding triggering situations during early training, practicing recalls away from high-distraction areas, and using genuinely irresistible rewards (higher-value treats than you'd normally use). Build a strong foundation in calm settings first, then gradually introduce minor distractions. Redirect his focus to you *before* he locks onto prey—call him cheerfully when you sense his attention shifting.
How often should I train my Dachshund, and for how long?+
Short, frequent sessions work best for Dachshunds: aim for 3–4 training sessions per week, 5–10 minutes each. This aligns with their moderate 45-minute daily exercise need and respects their independent nature—longer sessions risk triggering stubbornness and boredom. Consistency matters more than duration, so brief daily or semi-daily practice is ideal.
Should I use a whistle instead of a verbal cue?+
A whistle can work well for Dachshunds, especially if your dog has a barking tendency—a consistent whistle cuts through environmental noise and your own dog's vocalizations. However, verbal cues work equally well if delivered in a cheerful, distinctive tone. Choose whichever you'll use consistently and in all situations, and practice the same method throughout training.
What if my Dachshund comes sometimes but not always?+
Inconsistent recall usually signals insufficient motivation or confusion about the rules. Return to using only the highest-value treats, practice in quieter settings to rebuild reliability, and ensure you're rewarding *every* successful recall during this retraining phase. Also check that no one else in your household is accidentally rewarding them for ignoring the cue—consistency from all family members is essential, especially with stubborn breeds.