Teaching Your Dachshund Tricks

Dachshunds may be honoree, but there is no doubt they’re extremely intelligent dogs. In fact, they like learning new things, as long as they’re having fun and pleasing their owner. Teaching your doxy fun tricks is one way for you to bond with your canine companion. To get started, try the following tricks, then make a list of all of the tricks you’d like to teach your dog and continue having fun!

1. Shake

If you’re just beginning fun tricks with your dachshund, starting with “shake” is a good idea. Before you start though, your dog should already know how to sit, as this will be a necessary step. Once you’re ready to start, ask your dog to sit, and then say “shake” while at the same time grasping his hand and shaking it. Immediately give your dog a reward such as praise or a tasty snack. Alternatively, you could say “shake” while tickling the bottom of your dog’s paw, until he lifts his hand. Repeat these steps a few times per day and your weenie dog will be shaking in no time!

Did you know…that the first dachshund show took place in England in 1859?

2. Rollover

Before teaching your doxy to rollover, he must already be familiar with lying down; otherwise the trick is not possible. Start by asking your canine to sit, lie down, and then say “rollover.” Hold a treat in your hand and move it in a circular pattern while speaking. Your hand should move in the direction in which you want your dachshund to rollover. At first, your dog will need some help; you can do this by gently rolling your dog to the desired side. As soon as he rolls to the side, give him the treat and let him know that he is a good boy!

* Remember that dachshunds have sensitive backs; always be gentle when moving them, as back injuries can pose a great threat to their health.

3. Fetch

Dachshunds love their toys; that is why teaching them to fetch is an excellent idea! First, place your dog in a harness (in case some pulling occurs), get some treats, and choose your dog’s favorite toy. Throw your dog’s toy only a few feet away, and call him back to you once he has the toy in his mouth. If he does not immediately return, give the leash a small tug to signal your dog to come back. Each time your doxy returns with his toy give him a treat. Soon, your dog will learn that a game of fetch can only continue if he retrieves his toy.

4. Names

The “name game” is a bit harder to teach than shake, rollover, and fetch, but it is well worth it! How does the name game work? The name game involves teaching your dachshund the names of different objects such as a ball, shoes, purse, etc. Start by selecting an object, such as your dog’s ball. Show your dog the object while saying “ball,” or while throwing the ball in a game of fetch. After much repetition, place the ball next to a distinct object (such as a shoe) and say the word “ball.” If your dog picks up the ball reward him with a treat.

5. Retrieve

Showing dachshunds how to retrieve is not only fun, it can actually be convenient. Ever wish that your dog could get you the TV remote? Well, teaching your dog how to retrieve is the answer to your wish. Once your dog has mastered a few names, it is time to teach him how to retrieve those objects. Choose an object, for example a ball, and hide it in a spot that isn’t too hard to find. Next, ask your dog to find the object; in this case we’ll be asking; “where’s the ball?” If your dog needs some guidance, lead him towards the object until he finds it. Have your dog pick up the object and bring it to you. At first you may need to take the object from your dog’s mouth. Lastly, be sure to reward your doxy for retrieving the object.

Does your dachshund do tricks?  Send us a video to share your doxy’s talent!

References

Fun Dachshund Training.  Everything About Dachshunds.  Retrieved August 5, 2012, from http://www.everything-about-dachshunds.com/dachshund-dog-training.html