Dachshunds, or “wiener dogs”, are a beloved breed for their lengthy builds and amiable temperaments. Though they often make fantastic companions, owning them can also come with its own set of difficulties, particularly concerning behavioral issues that may be difficult to navigate.
If you’re a new or old Dachshund owner, this article will give you tips to better understand your pup’s behavior. Discover some of the most common behavioral issues that arise amongst these hounds and learn how to manage them.
What is the Common Behavior of a Dachshund?
Sweet and devoted, yet mischievous, Dachshunds are a breed of their own. They have an abundance of energy that needs to be released through daily exercise and activities that engage the mind; otherwise, they will become disgruntled.
An inherent prey drive makes them susceptible to chasing after smaller creatures such as squirrels or rabbits, so you must take extra precautions when taking your furry friend out for walks. While many breeds share some common traits, Dachshund’s personalities stand apart from the rest.
Dachshunds, who have their origin as hunting dogs, are famous for digging and burrowing. But if you don’t train them properly, they may become excessively vocal like barking or howling. Despite that fact and with patience and consistent training Dachshunds will remain a lovable and lively breed to own.
Most Common Dachshund Behavior Problems and What to Do About Them
Dachshunds, just like any canine companion, may show signs of behavioral issues that can be difficult for owners to grapple with. These are some common Dachshund behavior problems:
Excessive Barking
Dachshunds are known for being vocal, but excessive barking can become a problem if it becomes too frequent or disruptive. This behavior can be caused by boredom, anxiety, or lack of training.
Related post: Do Dachshunds bark a lot?
Digging
Dachshunds have the instinct to dig and burrow, but excessive digging can damage your yard or become a safety hazard. This type of behavior may be a result of boredom, anxiety, inadequate training, or lack of proper supervision.
Chewing
Dachshunds, like all dogs, may have a predisposition for chewing on household items that are not intended for them, such as furniture and footwear. Chewing can be attributed to teething pain, boredom, or anxiety.
Related post: Do dachshunds bite?
Stubbornness
Dachshunds are known for their determined nature and can be especially obstinate when it comes to training. As a result, housetraining them or teaching obedience commands can become quite a challenge.
To learn more about dachshund breed traits, read this post: Dachshund Temperament and Personality
Difficulty with housetraining
Dachshunds can be difficult to house-train, and accidents in the house may be common. This can be caused by their stubbornness and independent nature.
Related post: Why do dachshunds pee when excited?
Territorial behavior
Dachshunds can be territorial and may become aggressive toward strangers or other animals. This behavior is rooted in their history as hunting dogs, and their instinct to protect their home and family.
Protective behavior
Dachshunds can also be protective of their families and may bark or growl at perceived threats. While this behavior can be helpful in some situations, it can become problematic if your Dachshund becomes overly aggressive or fearful.
Related post: Are dachshunds aggressive?
Dachshunds shake for no apparent reason
Dachshunds may shake due to the intensity of their feelings, whether joyous or anxious. A sudden surge in hormones brings about drastic effects on their body resulting in tremors. Addressing both positive and negative emotions is necessary for these pooches as too much stimulation can lead them to quiver uncontrollably.
Related post: Why do Dachshunds Shake?
Dachshunds tend to lick a lot
Dachshunds, like many other dog breeds, tend to express their love and submission through licking. Unfortunately, this can develop into an obsessive behavior that is harmful to both the pup’s health and your mental well-being. Thus, it is important to rectify this situation immediately.
Related post: Why do Dachshunds Lick So Much?
How to correct behavior problems in dachshunds
The key to managing any behavior problem in a Dachshund is understanding why they are behaving in such a way. This may require some detective work on your part, as many of these behaviors can be caused by medical issues or environmental factors. Once you have identified the cause of the behavior, you can take steps to address it.
Here are some tips for dealing with behavior problems in dachshunds:
Socialization
Dachshunds can be prone to anxiety and aggression towards strangers, other dogs, and even family members. Early and ongoing socialization can help prevent these behaviors; therefore, introduce your dachshund to a variety of people, dogs, and situations in a positive and controlled manner.
Related Post: Why Is Socialization So Important For Dachshunds?
Positive reinforcement training
Dachshunds respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques, such as clicker training, which reward desired behaviors with treats, toys, and praise. Avoid using punishment or physical force, as this can exacerbate behavior problems.
Exercise
Dachshunds have high energy levels and need daily exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Make sure your dachshund gets plenty of walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
Address separation anxiety
Dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety, and they may exhibit destructive behaviors when left alone. Gradually acclimate your dachshund to being alone by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increasing the time. Provide plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied.
Related post: Separation Anxiety in Dachshunds
Seek professional help
If your dachshund’s behavior problems persist despite your efforts, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide specialized training and behavior-modification techniques to address specific issues.
Remember that every dachshund is unique
Remember that every dachshund is unique, and it may take time and patience to address behavioral problems. With the right training and care, however, you can help your dachshund become a happy and well-behaved companion.
Overall, the key to managing behavior problems in Dachshunds is providing plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement. Working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist may also be necessary for more serious issues.
Why are Dachshunds so difficult?
Despite their adorable expressions and sweet dispositions, Dachshunds can be a handful for some owners to deal with because of their independent spirit and determined personalities. These highly intelligent breeds need consistent training, exercise, and mental stimulation to remain well-behaved. If not given proper guidance or care, these charming pups may act out by being stubborn or even destructive.
If not managed correctly, Dachshunds can demonstrate dominating tendencies and become aggressive or possessive. Furthermore, they may bark excessively, howl throughout the night, and chew on furniture.
Do Dachshunds have a temper?
Some Dachshunds may be more prone to certain behaviors like stubbornness, anxiety, and aggression due to their breed history. Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt small animals such as badgers, which required them to be tenacious and independent. These traits can manifest as stubbornness and a tendency to bark or dig if not channeled correctly.
Additionally, Dachshunds may be prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive or vocal if left alone for extended periods.
Related post: How do you calm an anxious dachshund?
Are Dachshunds disobedient?
Dachshunds are renowned for their independent spirit and willfulness, which can at times be misconstrued as disobedience. Even though they are quite clever dogs, teaching them requires patience since they have strong-willed characters. As such, it can be difficult to get your Dachshund to listen and act accordingly, something that might require extra effort from the owner to succeed with positive reinforcement techniques.
Dachshunds can appear to be disobedient because they were originally bred as hunters, meaning they have the natural inclination to pursue their paths and make individual decisions. This makes them less likely to obey commands and more prone to do whatever pleases them rather than what their owner requests.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Dachshunds are cherished companions due to their unique and loveable personalities. Still, as with any breed of dog, they may bring some behavioral issues along with them, which is why it’s so important for owners to research the common problems that a Dachshund can present and be aware of its natural temperament beforehand. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to better manage or even prevent these behaviors altogether!
With perseverance, routine care, and proper training and socialization, Dachshunds can make great companions. Don’t forget: addressing any behavioral issues quickly and efficiently leads to a stronger bond between you both. Ultimately this creates a happier, healthier relationship for years to come.