Category: Dachshund Behaviour

Agility is a very exciting dog sport. The dog should try to complete the course in the shortest time without any blunders such as running the same course twice or knocking down a post. In dachshund agility, the handler directs the dachshund through an obstacle course using voice command and hand signals. Dachshunds being the intelligent dogs they are often complete a number of agility courses, especially if they are modified specifically for dachshunds to avoid jumping and climbing. Agility can be most enjoyable activity and must not be taken in all seriousness. It is so much fun for everyone involved and the spectators. Dachshunds being originally hunting dogs retain their aggressive nature. Agility training is a good way of redirecting their aggressive hunting instincts and abilities in a positive manner.

To take part in dachshund agility competitions, start by taking an agility class but take it lightly and have fun. Just like with any other training, always reward your dachshund afterwards. It will motivate him.

Agility, being a team event, requires both the trainer and the dachshund dog to work together to negotiate the obstacle course. This is a sport that involves quick thinking on the part of the handler. He must think on the spot and use verbal commands and body language to communicate to the dachshund. As a handler, your dog is depending on you. Agility has so much variety and every course challenges the dog in a different way. There could be tunnels, weave poles and tire jumps among others.

In dachshund agility competitions it is the jumps that pose the greatest challenge for dachshunds given their long bodies and short legged, sausage like physique. It takes time to master the jumps.  It is best to start with the pole nearly touching the ground and gradually raise it. Tunnels are where dachshund dogs shine in agility; being burrowers this is their tuff. Tunnels are the easiest maneuver for them as they were bred to hunt badgers on their burrow. Weave poles are a challenge to both handler and dachshund. Dogs prefer straight routes. Short legs also pose a problem. This is for the advanced classes. Agility courses that do not require the dog to jump or climb are great.

Dachshund agility training is a great way to spend a weekend with your dachshund. You and your dog will exercise while your dog gets obedience lessons and learns to follow commands. If you are interested find an agility club in your area and join. They have all equipment for agility training and agility competitions. Even before dachshund agility training can begin, the dog should be well versed with basic obedience commands. You must have control of your dog in agility.

It is encouraging to know that dachshunds are quick learners when they are not being stubborn. To progress in agility classes it is best that the handler takes the classes lightly and does not put pressure on the dog. The dachshund needs to be constantly encouraged with praises, treats and motivation.

Dachshund obedience training does not have to be an unpleasant experience. Obedience training involves issuing the basic commands in simple words. Obedience training is usually made easier when one obtains proper information and tips from a professional dachshund trainer. Use rewards for obedience training and verbal praise. Training time is bonding time.

Obedience training takes time and patience. If you do not have time for training and socializing the dachshund and are short tempered, this may not be the dog for you. To train a dachshund in obedience and following of commands is a tough challenge and not everyone can manage. There are those who have got new dachshunds only to give them up after a while saying that they are not obedient and will not listen to them. This is because dachshunds are a naturally stubborn breed.

In dachshund obedience training you must deal with their stubborn nature. It is better to do so in a firm but loving way and you should start from the moment you bring him home. Start by teaching him simple and basic obedience commands. Use one word commands such as ‘come’ as opposed to ‘come here’. Be patient with the dog as dachshunds tend to refuse to go along with compulsion and may become irritable when pushed. The dachshund is irritable he may respond defensively and their aggression will surface making the whole experience unpleasant.

It is better to start obedience training from three to six months when they are most likely to be less stubborn. There is nothing as discouraging as an unruly dachshund puppy in public. So, when the dog attains the right age for training, ideally fourteen weeks, the owner should begin training him. Alternatively the dachshund puppy could be taken to a trainer or enrolled in puppy dachshund obedience school. Nevertheless, the most important thing in dachshund training is to understand the dog, regardless of who is training the dog, whether it is the owner or a professional. The trainer should know when the right time of training is and give proper training. The trainer should also be firm yet friendly to avoid bringing out the hostile temperament of the dachshund.

Dachshund obedience training is highly recommended. Dachshunds are smart dogs that learn well in the right environment. Obedience school is equally important for the dachshund owner and not only the dog. The owner learns how to give instructions to his dachshund and the dachshund is taught how to follow the instructions. Dachshunds can be very defiant and arrogant and sometimes they will totally choose to pay no attention to what they are being required to do .some  dachshunds are difficult to train on your own and that is when obedience classes come in to save the day.

Before you take your dachshund to obedience school make sure he has had all his immunizations before mingling with other dogs. Dachshund obedience school also helps with socialization. When all is said and done one would be surprised that these hard headed and aggressive cute dachshunds do best in obedience school.