Important Disclaimer
The information provided here is for general pet health education only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
- Species & breed
- Dog · Dachshund
- Age
- 8 months old
- Sex
- Male
- Color
- Black
Potty training a young Dachshund is totally doable — it just takes a little extra patience with this breed! Dachshunds are famously stubborn (in the most lovable way), so consistency is your best friend here.
Building a Routine
The core idea is simple: predict when he needs to go, take him out, and celebrate when he gets it right. At 8 months old, Tank has a bit more bladder control than a tiny puppy, which works in your favor.
Take him out at these key moments every single day:
- First thing in the morning (immediately — don't wait)
- After every meal
- After naps
- After playtime
- Right before bed
- Every 2–3 hours in between
Pick one specific spot outside and always take him there first. The familiar smell helps trigger the urge to go.
When He Goes Outside
Make it a party! Calm, happy praise and a small treat the moment he finishes (not after you walk back inside) helps him connect the dots. Timing matters a lot here — the reward needs to happen within a few seconds of him finishing.
Handling Accidents Inside
Don't scold or punish — he won't connect the correction to what he did, and it can make him anxious about going in front of you at all (which actually makes training harder). Instead:
- Calmly clean it up with an enzymatic cleaner (a cleaner that breaks down the odor at a chemical level, not just masks it — this discourages him from returning to the same spot)
- Ask yourself what you might adjust — did he go too long between trips? Was he unsupervised?
Supervision Is Everything
When Tank is inside and not in his crate, keep an eye on him. Watch for sniffing the floor, circling, or squatting — those are his "I need to go" signals. If you catch him mid-accident, a calm "outside!" and a quick trip out is the right move.
A crate can be a great tool too. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping space, so a properly sized crate (just big enough to stand, turn, and lie down) can help him hold it when you can't watch him closely.
Dachshund-Specific Note
Some Dachshunds are resistant to going outside in cold or wet weather — if that becomes an issue, a small covered potty area or a rain jacket can help!
When to see your vet:
Potty training itself isn't a medical issue, but do reach out to your vet if you notice Tank is:
- Urinating very frequently or in small amounts
- Straining or crying when he tries to go
- Having accidents after he seemed to have the hang of it (regression can sometimes signal a urinary issue)
- Drinking much more water than usual
Any of those signs are worth a vet call sooner rather than later. Otherwise, keep at it — Tank's got this! 🐾
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