The key to reducing Dachshund barking lies in understanding their hunting instincts and providing consistent, positive training that redirects their alert behavior. Most Dachshunds can learn the "quiet" command within 2-3 weeks with daily practice sessions of 10-15 minutes.
Understanding Why Dachshunds Bark So Much
Dachshunds weren't bred to be quiet lap dogs—they were designed to hunt badgers in underground tunnels, which required them to bark constantly to communicate with hunters above ground. This genetic programming runs deep, and I've worked with hundreds of Doxies whose owners were surprised to learn their dog's "problem" barking is actually normal breed behavior.
Your Dachshund typically barks for these reasons:
- Alert barking at sounds, visitors, or movement outside (80% of cases I see)
- Attention-seeking when they want food, play, or interaction
- Territorial behavior defending their home and family
- Anxiety or boredom from insufficient mental stimulation
- Excitement barking during play or when you come home
The "Quiet" Command Training Method
This technique works for about 85% of Dachshunds I train, but it requires patience and consistency. Here's my step-by-step approach:
Step 1: Capture the Bark
Wait for your Dachshund to bark naturally (this won't take long). The moment they start barking, say "speak" in a clear, firm voice. After 3-4 barks, hold a high-value treat near their nose—they'll stop barking to sniff it. The instant they stop, say "quiet" and immediately give the treat plus enthusiastic praise.
Step 2: Practice the Pattern
Repeat this sequence 10 times per training session, twice daily. Most Dachshunds catch on within 3-5 days that "quiet" means good things happen when they stop barking. The key is timing—you must give the treat within 1-2 seconds of them stopping.
Step 3: Add Distance and Duration
Once your Dachshund reliably stops barking on the "quiet" command, gradually increase the time between their silence and the reward. Start with 2 seconds, then 5 seconds, building up to 30 seconds of quiet before treating.
Managing Trigger-Based Barking
Since most Dachshund barking stems from alerting to triggers, you'll need to address the root cause alongside training the quiet command.
Window and Door Patrol Barking
Block visual access to high-traffic areas using privacy film or moving furniture. I've seen this reduce alert barking by 60-70% immediately. When your Dachshund does bark at the door, use the quiet command, then redirect them to a designated "place" mat at least 10 feet from the entrance.
Visitor Barking
Train your Dachshund to go to their place when the doorbell rings. Practice with family members ringing the bell while you guide your dog to their mat with treats. This takes about 2 weeks of daily practice, but it's incredibly effective for this breed.
What If It's Not Working?
If you're not seeing progress after 3-4 weeks, here's what might be going wrong:
Your Timing Is Off
Dachshunds are quick thinkers, but you need to be quicker. If you're giving the quiet command after they've already stopped barking, they won't make the connection. The command must come while they're actively barking.
Inconsistent Family Training
I see this constantly—one family member rewards quiet behavior while another yells at the dog to stop barking. Yelling actually reinforces barking because your Dachshund thinks you're joining in their alert chorus.
Not Enough Mental Stimulation
Bored Dachshunds bark more. These intelligent dogs need 30-45 minutes of mental exercise daily through puzzle toys, sniffing games, or training sessions. Physical exercise alone won't tire out their minds.
Common Training Mistakes I See
After 15 years of working with Dachshunds, these mistakes come up repeatedly:
- Using bark collars too early—These can increase anxiety and make training harder
- Giving attention for barking—Even negative attention reinforces the behavior
- Inconsistent commands—Using "shush," "quiet," "stop," and "no" interchangeably confuses your dog
- Training only when frustrated—Your emotional state affects your dog's ability to learn
- Expecting overnight results—Dachshunds are stubborn; plan for 4-6 weeks minimum
Age-Specific Considerations
Puppies (8-16 weeks)
Young Dachshund puppies bark less frequently, making this the ideal training window. Focus on preventing bad habits rather than correcting them. Socialize extensively during this period to reduce fear-based barking later.
Adult Dachshunds (1-7 years)
Most responsive to training but may have established patterns. Expect 4-8 weeks for significant improvement. Senior dogs (8+ years) can still learn but progress more slowly—factor in hearing issues that might affect their response to commands.
Advanced Techniques for Persistent Barkers
For Dachshunds who don't respond to basic training, I use these additional strategies:
The "Look at That" Game
Teach your Dachshund to look at triggers without barking. When they see something that normally causes barking but remain quiet, immediately mark with "yes" and treat. This builds positive associations with previously triggering stimuli.
Impulse Control Exercises
Practice "wait" commands before meals, walks, and play. Dachshunds with better impulse control bark less reactively. Start with 5-second waits and build to 30 seconds over several weeks.
When to Seek Professional Help
Contact a professional dog trainer if your Dachshund:
- Barks for more than 30 minutes continuously
- Shows aggressive body language while barking
- Barks excessively when left alone (separation anxiety)
- Doesn't respond to consistent training after 8 weeks
Some Dachshunds have underlying anxiety or medical issues that affect their barking behavior. A qualified trainer can assess whether additional intervention is needed.
Remember, completely eliminating barking isn't realistic or desirable for this breed. The goal is teaching your Dachshund when barking is appropriate and when it's time to be quiet. With patience and consistency, most Dachshunds can learn to be excellent watchdogs without being neighborhood nuisances.
For personalized guidance specific to your Dachshund's barking triggers and training progress, our AI Dog Trainer can provide customized advice based on your dog's unique situation and your training goals.