Crate Training A Dachshund

Crate Training

Crate training dachshunds is an excellent idea because they can’t chew on things when they are in their crate. That makes them a lot safer and also helps with house training. They will also be safer in the car. Crate training is also easier on you and your wallet. You can buy a cheaper crate for Dachshund and not have to worry about it if they start destroying things in the house.

Crate training dachshunds also make it easier for you to have a puppy. It can be challenging to house train them, but they will be more likely to potty outside if they are in the crate. You can leave your puppy in the crate for only one hour while you are gone or until they are about five months old, whichever is first. After that, you should not leave them for more than three hours at a time. Leave the Dachshund in the crate when it is quiet, so he does not get scared.

What You Should Know About Crate Training Dachshunds

Crate training is a necessity for Dachshunds. The breed has many of the characteristics of being a hider, and they are also noted for their stubbornness. These two traits combined mean that crate training is a must.

1. Dachshunds are stubborn by nature, and that means that they will not respond to traditional training methods the way other dogs do. Crate training is one way to ensure that your Dachshund does what you want him to do – when you want him to do it.

2. Crate training is also an excellent way to ensure your dog’s safety when he is left alone. When a Dachshund is allowed to roam free in your home, he can quickly get into things that not only can be harmful but can also cause quite a mess.

3. By putting your Dachshund in a crate when you do not have time to watch him, you will be able to stop destructive behavior before it even starts. A crate is not used as a punishment, and it’s used for training purposes. Your dog will come to view his crate as a safe place where he can sleep and be safe.

4. By establishing a routine with your Dachshund regarding the crate, you can help with potty training and ensure that your Dachshund does not go to the bathroom in the house accidentally when he gets carried away playing with another dog.

5. Never use your Dachshund’s crate to punish him, even when you are angry at him or when an accident occurs in the house. The crate should always sway positive emotions for your dog. It should never sway negative ones.

6. If you crate train your Dachshund correctly, he will view his crate as a special place to him. The crate does not have to be big and imposing. You can buy crates small enough for your Dachshund to sleep on top of or even inside of when you are not using it.

7. If you want a Dachshund that listens to you around the house, then crate training is the best way to go. Crate training teaches your dog that you are the Alpha dog and that he must do what you say.

8. Crate training is done with all dogs, regardless of their temperament or size. Even if your Dachshund tends to be tranquil and relaxed, you should still train him. Not only will it make your life much easier, but it will be much more enjoyable for your Dachshund as well.

9. Crate training does not have to be complicated. Even though Dachshunds are stubborn by nature, they tend to learn quite quickly when they want something, such as food or a toy in the crate.

10. If you put a soft blanket or towel in the crate for your Dachshund to sleep on, he will feel more secure and comfortable in it. That is also great when you are crate training to wipe off any accidents he may have easily.

However, crate training is a lot more than just locking your dog into a cage in return for giving him treats or a toy when he goes in on his own. That is more of an operant conditioning technique than the actual crate training method.

How Long Does Crate Training Take?

Crate training takes as long as it takes, and there is no way around it. It may take some Dachshunds a few days, while others take months or even years to become comfortable in their crates. But eventually, they will get there. Some owners, especially those who are in a hurry to house train their Dachshunds, will put them into their crates without giving enough time for the dog to settle in.

If you try to train your Dachshund before he is ready, you can cause severe psychological damage and make things even harder than they already are. Once your puppy learns that crates = fun and treats, it’ll only want to spend all day that way! If you keep putting him into his crate before he’s ready, crating will quickly become a “bad” thing. You’ll have to undo years of bad habits and un-teach him hundreds of tricks.

Why Are Crates Good For Dachshund Puppies?

  • They’re the safest place for your dog.

Crates are essential for young Dachshund puppies. As cute as they are, Dachshund pups are curious and may get into things that can be harmful to them, including chemicals or poisonous substances. A crate will keep your dog in a safe place while you’re gone, so you don’t have to worry about keeping dangerous substances off-limits to him.

  • They’re good teaching tools.

Crate training is a relevant life skill for any dog, Dachshunds included. Crate training will give you a way to keep your dog safe in situations that are new or stressful, like trips to the vet, parties, and family gatherings. It’s also helpful when you need to remind your Dachshund to stay in one place and not bite or jump on people.

  • They’re easy to travel with

If you’re planning a trip with your Dachshund, it’s easier for him if he’s already used to traveling in his crate at home than it would be if he had never seen one before. Crates can be valuable for car rides, plane rides, or long trips in a truck. You can even use them to keep Dachshund safe at home while you’re entertaining guests or working in your yard.

  • They’ll help house train your Dachshund.

Crate training is one of the best ways to house train a Dachshund puppy. And once they’re house trained, you can still use their crates as a way to remind them not to chew on furniture or bark too much.

  • They’re an excellent way to stop wrong behaviors.

Dachshunds are needy and stubborn dogs, at least compared to other dogs. Crate train them from an early age, and you’ll have a little easier time teaching them bad habits. For instance, if your dog loves sleeping on your bed, putting him in his crate will give you a chance to show him that his bed is in another room. If he’s already used to staying out of the bedroom when the door is shut, he won’t sneak in when you’re sleeping!

  • They can keep your Dachshund safe from accidents.

You can’t prevent all accidents in the house. But if your Dachshund has the habit of chewing and swallowing things he shouldn’t, like shoes, socks, or other household items, a crate can help you keep him safe. It also prevents him from getting up on tables or countertops looking for something to chew.

  • They’ll provide a safe place for house-training accidents.

House-training accidents are an embarrassing fact of life for everyone who’s ever had a puppy. Dogs go outside to do their business for a reason: it’s natural and intuitive! Crating your Dachshund will give her the privacy and security she needs while going through this challenging phase in her life.

  • They can help you teach your Dachshund tricks.

Crate training teaches Dachshunds to be still and pay attention to you while you’re teaching them new tricks. Whether you’re using the crate as an extension of your hand or using it simply for periods, it’ll help both of you learn faster.

  • They can stop your Dachshund from barking too much.

Dachshunds bark for different reasons, such as fear or boredom or because they want to play. A crate helps prevent them from barking too much by providing some privacy and security that they need while they adjust to their new homes.

  • They can be an excellent way for your Dachshund to travel.

Dachshunds are small dogs, but they still have to travel in crates when they’re in cars or airplanes. Crates are the best way to make sure your dog is safe and comfortable during these trips.

  • They help you keep your Dachshund safe while you’re home.

People sometimes use their Dachshunds as an excuse to let their homes get messy or to stop cleaning up at all. By using a crate, you can avoid that problem. Your dog’s crate can be in your bedroom or your kitchen or wherever else you spend the most time, and if he tries to help himself to something on the floor, he’ll end up back in his crate!

  • They’re a great stress reliever.

Dachshunds are high-energy dogs who need lots of exercise and playtime every day. Sometimes, there’s not enough time in the day, or the weather is terrible, and you can’t get outside. Dog crates help with this problem by providing a place for Dachshund to retreat when he needs a break from playing safely.

Is Crate Training Difficult?

Crate training isn’t difficult if you start when your Dachshund is young and make it fun for him. To do that, you’ll need to understand how dogs think.

How Dogs Think

Dogs are pack animals. They seek safety when they feel threatened, just as wolves do in the wild. If they do not feel safe, they will become stressed and demonstrate behaviors that may appear aggressive but are not, such as chewing up your new shoes or pooping on the carpet.

Make It Fun

Crate training is fun, especially after your Dachshund gets used to it. You can place all kinds of fun toys in there, as well as treats and chews.

Why Crate Train?

Crate training helps with housebreaking, which can be difficult with this breed. Crate training also gives you a place to put your dog when you don’t have time for him, like when you leave for work or go out of town.

To get started with crate training:

  • Choose a good-size crate – not too large, not too small. You want your dog to be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If your Dachshund has a favorite blanket or toy, put it in the crate with the dog to make it feels more secure.
  • When you bring your Dachshund home, let him investigate it independently. He’s going to sniff around and check it out. When he does this, don’t try to get his attention or distract him from the crate – just leave him be and let him settle in.
  • After he becomes familiar with his crate over the next few days, place a treat inside so he’ll learn that entering the crate earns him a reward. Repeat this, but don’t give him any treats until he goes in on his own.
  • When he goes in to get his reward, say something like “good crate” or “go to bed,” so he learns what to do with the crate. He will continue to go into the crate at first because of the treats but will soon learn that it’s an excellent place to be – where he gets treats and even praise!
  • Once your Dachshund is comfortable with entering the crate on his own, you can begin leaving him there for short periods while you’re at home. When you leave, put him in the crate and close it. You can also reinforce this behavior by saying something like, “go to sleep” or “go to bed.”
  • Ramp-Up Time. You’ll want to gradually increase the time that your Dachshund stays in the crate. If you leave for an hour and then come back home, don’t open the crate right away. Instead, play with him for a few minutes. Then put him back in the crate with some treats and praise him when he goes in on his own.
  • Do this for several days or weeks – as long as it takes – until your Dachshund is spending several hours a day in her crate while you’re at home.

Can I Give Food To My Dachshund Puppy In The Crate?

Yes, you can feed your puppy in the crate. Your puppy should spend a lot of time in its crate, so it’s essential to keep him from feeling hungry too often. You should not leave him hungry for more than three hours.

How Should I Feed My Puppy?

When you feed your puppy, make sure you give him small amounts of food three to four times a day. He does not need large meals at mealtimes. Many owners make the mistake of overfeeding their puppies when they are very young, leading to health issues later in life. Restricting the amount of food your puppy eats will keep his metabolism under control.

How Should You Properly Introduce A Dachshund Puppy To A Crate?

Introducing your puppy to their crate is a critical process that should be done correctly from the beginning.

Step 1. Decide on the size crate to get based on how big your puppy will be when fully grown. If you get a too-small crate now, it will just be too small for your dachshund puppy later.

Step 2. Take your puppy out into the middle of the living room floor.

Step 3. Bring out their crate and set it up in front of them (back facing them).

Step 4. Get your puppy to come over to you by calling them and giving a treat or two. When your puppy comes over to you, give a whole lot of praises, petting, and so forth.

Step 5. Let your puppy smell the crate without going in it for now. Let them continue smelling it until they seem bored with it. If they are not bored, go ahead and let them get into the crate for a bit, then take him back outside once again in front of the crate.

Step 6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until they show no interest in the crate anymore. That may take a while, so be patient.

Step 7. When your puppy has lost interest in the crate, place them inside. Let him or her stay in there for a little bit (5 minutes or so), then let him out and repeat this whole process until they seem bored with the crate again. Do one time a day for at least two weeks. Ensure to praise them when they are inside for longer and more frequently during this time.

Step 8. Do this same process with him lying down first, then sitting up and eventually standing and always having them use the same voice commands and hand gestures.

Step 9. After they have lost interest in the crate for a second time, now is where you throw everything at them. Place them in there, make it dark, play some music or something interesting, etc. Just to see how much they like their new home.

This process typically takes about two to three weeks or so to complete.

Crate Training A Dachshund Puppy

There are many benefits of crate training a Dachshund. 

  • First, it helps keep your dog out of trouble when you are home. 
  • Second, crates provide a safe and comfortable place for your pup to sleep at night. 
  • Third, using a crate may deter your Dachshund from eliminating in the house when you are away. 
  • Forth, crate training is convenient when traveling with your dog as it will be easier to have him go in his crate at home rather than trying to find a designated potty place outside of your house.

Crates Help Keep Your Dachshund Safe And Secure

Dachshunds are relatively miniature, which inevitably makes them a target for the big and tough. If you’re not careful, your Doxie could quickly be snatched up by an animal that’s bigger than him. That is why you must provide your canine companion with proper care and protection. Crates are great tools for keeping your Dachshund safe and secure while you’re away.

The primary purpose of crate training is to make your dog feel comfortable inside his own little “den.” When they’re put in their crates, it should feel like their home, a comfortable place where they can spend some time relaxing. Crates are not meant to punish bad behavior; instead, they should be seen as rewards for good behavior.

To properly train your Dachshund to love his crate, you’ll first have to familiarize him with the crate itself. You want to let him get used to walking into his crate willingly, and later on, you’ll be able to teach him how to go inside by himself whenever he needs a rest. The crate should be ample for your Doxie to stand in, turn around, lie down and sleep.

Picking The Right Dog Crate

There are many choices when it comes to picking out a dog crate. You want to make sure that you are getting the right size for your pet and pick one made out of sturdy material not to damage easily. One option is the wire crates that are very sturdy and can be adjusted to fit your pet as it grows. 

The wire crates 

Offer more visibility so that you can easily see your dog when you are in the room with it. The metal crates are also very durable and will last a long time. However, they are heavier than the plastic ones and may not be ideal for travel as they weigh quite a bit. 

The plastic crates 

Lighter weight and easier to travel with but could easily be broken with rough play from your dog. There will come a time when you need to move your crate into another room or even outside if it is hot to protect your dog from the summer months’ heat.

What Is The Secret To Properly Crate Training A Dachshund?

The most important rule when crate training a dachshund puppy is never to use the crate as punishment.

  • Your dog should experience the crate as his private den where he can feel safe and secure. Suppose you start using the crate as punishment. In that case, he may negatively associate it and begin to fight being put in there and even develop anxiety or fear related to the crate.
  • All new dog owners need to be aware that a small dog can easily get hurt in a big dog crate or even an adult-sized crate. A dachshund puppy needs to be crated adequately on a platform or hard plastic-type crate so he can’t get crushed by the metal bars.
  • Never leave your puppy in the crate for long periods when unattended. Puppies tend to be very attentive, curious, and rambunctious and may likely get themselves into precarious situations.
  • It would help if you didn’t ever leave your dog in a non-ventilated crate with no water.

How long is it safe to leave a dachshund in a crate?

There is no one answer to this question. You need to consider your puppy’s age, health, and temperament. 

-6 pounds puppy may be able to hold its bladder for as little as 2-3 hours. 

-10 pounds puppy may be able to hold it for 3-4 hours.

-12 pounds puppy may be able to hold it for 4-5 hours.

-16 pounds puppy may be able to hold it for 5-6 hours.

-18 pounds puppy may be able to hold it for 6-7 hours.

It’s best not to leave your puppy in a crate overnight if he/she is less than 12 weeks old. Once your dog is over one year of age, they are typically able to hold their bladder as long as eight continuous hours.

A general guideline is to let your puppy out of the crate every 2-3 hours. Usually, before you get home, you will have to take it outside for bathroom breaks. If you work long hours, this may not be practical for you, so consider getting up earlier or bringing your dog to work with you. If neither of these are viable options, talk to a vet about solutions that will help your dog gain bladder control and reduce the risk of stress-related illnesses and accidents.

Dachshund Stress-related Illnesses 

  • Colitis

Dachshunds are predisposed to colitis. It is an inflammation of the colon. The symptoms include straining to have a bowel movement, reduced appetite, and lethargy. It is most commonly associated with food intolerance. You can quickly correct this by changing your puppy’s diet and adding probiotics (lactobacillus acidophilus). However, if your dog’s colitis is severe or does not go away, you may have to take it to a vet for treatment.

  • Vomiting

Vomiting in dogs is usually caused by stress or illness such as gastroenteritis or pancreatitis. These symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain; if your dog becomes sick or vomits more than once, take him/her to the vet.

  • Anxiety

Dachshunds are particularly prone to separation anxiety because they do not like to be alone. A Dachshund suffering from separation anxiety will try frantically to escape its crate when left alone by chewing or pawing at it, drooling, urinating in the crate, and crying. If your puppy exhibits any of these symptoms when you leave it alone or at work, consider professional training or rehoming your dog if a solution is not reached.

  • Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most common health problems for females in general, and a stressful situation can easily exacerbate them. The best way to deal with a urinary tract infection is to take your puppy to visit the vet for antibiotics and have him/her tested for crystals. Do not give your dog cranberry juice or other home remedies!

  • Skin Irritations

Skin irritations such as hot spots, allergies, and dry skin are more common in dachshunds than in other breeds. It is related to their low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Always pay close attention to your dog’s skin, especially when you take it to a groomer or new home.

  • Ear Infections

Dachshunds are prone to ear infections, especially if you keep them inside for an extended time without brushing them. Signs include head shaking, scratching at the ears, pain when you touch the ears, and foul-smelling discharge from the ears.

Crate training makes it more convenient not to watch your dog while sleeping or during the night.

Dachshund Accidents

Dachshunds are dogs with a lot of determination and self-esteem, and they know how to get out of the crate if they want to. They will quickly discover any weaknesses or mistakes you make in securing the crate and using it to their advantage.

The best way to stop your dog from urinating or defecating inside his/her crate is by making sure the crate is always clean.

If you do not have time to let your dog out for bathroom breaks on a regular schedule, consider getting up earlier in the morning so you can take him/her out before work. Hiring a pet walker or taking your pet to work are other options.

Get in touch