Advanced dog training methods

Your dog should obey any command that you give him within two or three seconds, if he does not obey you then he is either ignoring you, which means that your position as alpha leader is under threat, or he doesn't understand the command and requires further training.

If he responds to your command in some situations and not others then it's likely that he's just ignoring you. To prevent this from happening use the “No-Command” method. This method has three steps.

Remember that when you give a command it's helpful for you to be in a position to make sure your dog physically does what is asked and are able to to take the corrective action immediately.

Sit and stay command

The Sit and Stay command is an important command to learn.

The Sit and Stay command increases your dogs self discipline and prevents distractions from sidetracking him, such as other cats and dogs.

Once you have him sitting steadily, gradually increase the time you require him to stay sitting. Stand next to your dog all the while, but don't make him wait too long or he'll become fidgety. When he'll comfortably sit at your side and not attempt to move, go on to the next stage.

Stage 2

This final step ensures that he'll learn to maintain his position and prevent him from attempting to greet you when you move towards him.

Once he's used to and correctly completes Stage I, then progress further by stepping forwards rather than to the side.

When he has mastered this stage you can try using these variations.

Stage 3

In this stage you'll increase the distance you move away from your dog until eventually you move far enough that you can leave the leash on the ground.

You can also gradually increase the length of time that you get him to stay with the end target being four or five minutes.

If at any time he does not respond properly to your Stay command then move back a stage in the progression until he re-masters it fully. If he's not responding well to extended Stays then you might wish to try placing a stake in the ground and putting the free end of the leash over it. Command your dog to sit by the stake with you by his side. Give the command to Stay and then walk away. If your dog breaks and tries to come towards you then chastise him immediately and restart the exercise. Eventually you should be able to remove the stake.

Shake paws

Most dogs can learn this command easily.

It shouldn't take long for your dog to volunteer his paw to you when you say "shake."

Jump through your arms

Chances are that your dog will love doing this command. Jumping is when you get your dog to jump through your arms when you have formed them into a circular shape. For a dachshund you'll obviously want to keep your arms low to the round.

When he has successfully completed this maneuver ten to fifteen times, move on to the next stage.

Stage 2

For this part, you'll need someone else to help out.

You may need to use food as an incentive for this exercise, if you do use treats, as soon as your dog starts responding to your Jump command, decrease the treats and increase verbal praises and hugs. Complete the entire procedure twice per day for five or six days.