How Mat Training Can Change Your Dachshund’s Life (and Yours)
Mat training is one of the most valuable things you can teach your Dachshund. It helps create structure, builds confidence and strengthens the bond between you and your Sausage. Many owners focus on obedience commands like sit, stay and recall, but mat training often gets overlooked. However, it is one of the best tools you can have in your training kit.
Why Mat Training is So Important
Dachshunds are intelligent but also independent and stubborn. They love having a job to do, and mat training provides them with a clear purpose. When your Sausage learns that their mat is a safe and rewarding place, it helps them settle in different environments and situations. Whether you are at home, in a café or visiting friends, having a trained mat means your dog knows exactly where they should be.
It also teaches self-control. Rather than bouncing around demanding attention, your Sausage learns to relax on their mat and wait for your instruction. This is a game-changer for managing excitement, reducing problem behaviours and creating a calmer home environment.
How Mat Training Strengthens Your Bond
Every good relationship is built on trust and communication. Mat training helps establish this between you and your Dachshund. When you consistently reward them for making the right choices, they become more engaged and eager to listen. Instead of relying on force or frustration, you are working together in a way that makes sense to your dog.
A well-trained Dachshund feels more secure because they know what is expected of them. This reduces stress, prevents confusion and makes everyday life much smoother. Whether you are training a puppy or an older dog, the benefits of mat training are endless.
Everyday Benefits of a Trained Mat
Once your Sausage understands the concept, their mat becomes a tool for managing all sorts of situations. Here are just a few ways it can help:
- Meal Times – Instead of begging at the table, your Dachshund can settle on their mat while you eat.
- Guests and Visitors – A barking or excitable dachshund can be a challenge when people arrive. Sending them to their mat creates a calm routine.
- Outdoor Adventures – Whether you’re at a pub garden, a café or a park, your Dachshund has a familiar space to relax.
- Vet Visits and Grooming – Teaching your dog to stay on their mat helps reduce anxiety in stressful environments.
- Car Journeys – If your Dachshund finds car rides overwhelming, a mat can provide comfort and security.
Getting Started with Mat Training
The best way to introduce mat training is through positive reinforcement. Here is a simple way to begin:
- Choose a Comfortable Mat – It should be easy to transport and something your Dachshund enjoys lying on.
- Reward Any Interest – Place the mat on the floor and reward your dog whenever they show interest. Sniffing, stepping on it or lying down all deserve praise.
- Use a Cue Word – When your Dachshund gets onto the mat, introduce a command like “go to your mat”.
- Increase Duration – Start by rewarding short moments, then build up to longer stays.
- Add Distance and Distractions – Once your dog understands, start moving further away and adding distractions.
Patience and consistency are key. Make it fun, reward often and keep training sessions short and positive.
The Best Investment in Your Dachshund’s Training
Mat training is not just about obedience, it’s about creating a happy and well-adjusted dachshund. It gives them a safe space, helps with self-control and makes daily life easier for both of you. The stronger your bond, the more success you will have in all areas of training.
If you want to build a solid foundation with your Sausage, start with mat training. You will not regret it!
