By: Plants and Home
If you’ve ever come home to a puddle of pee and a very happy Dachshund, you’re not alone.
My wiener dogs are sweet, stubborn, and full of personality — and for a while, they were also full of surprise pees.
Whether it’s excitement, fear, or just their tiny bladders, this behavior is common… but totally fixable. Here’s what worked in my home (with six dogs!), and how you can get the same results.
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Why Do Dachshunds Pee When They’re Happy or Scared?
1. Submissive or Excitement Peeing
Common in puppies or very submissive dogs
Happens during greetings, playtime, or new experiences
It’s their way of saying: “I’m not a threat — love me!”
2. Small Bladder + Big Emotions
Dachshunds = tiny tanks
Puppies especially can’t hold it when emotions spike
3. Anxiety or Fear
Loud sounds, strangers, or new environments = pee trigger
It’s not disobedience — it’s stress
4. Potty Training Gaps
Some dachshunds never finish learning when/where to pee
Training lapses = habits that stick
How to Stop the Peeing (What Worked for Me)
Stay Calm During Greetings
Skip the high-pitched voice, squeals, or big gestures when you walk in. I know they’re cute — but wait a few minutes before petting to avoid excitement overload.
Take Them Outside Often
Before playtime, guests, or excitement, do a quick potty break. This helped me avoid a lot of messes indoors.
Reinforce the Good Stuff
Praise and reward every successful outside potty trip. Ignore accidents (no scolding — it can make anxiety worse).
Build Their Confidence
For submissive dogs, don’t lean over — crouch beside them. Use positive training, and skip punishments.
Ease Their Anxiety
Try calming tools like Adaptil, anxiety wraps, or slow desensitization to triggers. (Having guests over is a nightmare for us — but we get through it.)
Tools I Use to Prevent Pee Problems
Waterproof Couch & Bed Covers
I use this waterproof fitted sheet on both the bed and the couch. It keeps pee and licking slobber from soaking in and saves my sanity. (Amazon affiliate) It is almost Impossible to get the smell of pee out of couch cushions and out of mattresses.
Cleaning Tip:
Enzymatic cleaners (like Nature’s Miracle) are essential. Regular soap won’t remove the scent, which means repeat accidents or future markings.
When to See a Vet
Sudden changes in peeing? Accidents during sleep? Blood? These can be signs of a UTI or other medical issue. Always check with your vet if something feels off.
Final Thoughts
Living with a dachshund means accepting a little chaos — but not forever puddles. With time, training, and the right setup, excited peeing can become a thing of the past.
Got a little puddle monster too?
My puddle monsters: Noodle the smooth red and white piebald dachshund to your left, Feets the long-haired dappled Isabella in the middle, and Marbles the smooth trimerle to your right.
Does your dog do this? What tricks have worked for you?
#DachshundProblems #SmallDogProblems #DogTraining #WienerDogLife
