Why Is My Dachshund Puppy Out of Control?

Table Of Contents

Why Is My Dachshund Puppy Acting Out?
When Do Dachshund Puppies Calm Down?
Why Is My Dachshund Puppy So Aggressive?
How to Calm a Dachshund Puppy
Final thoughts

Dachshund puppies are undeniably adorable, but their high energy and strong personalities can sometimes make them seem out of control. If you’re dealing with challenging behaviors, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Understanding the reasons behind their antics and how to address them can help you navigate this phase with patience and success.

Why Is My Dachshund Puppy Acting Out?

1. Common Behavioral Issues

Hyperactivity: Dachshund puppies are naturally energetic and playful. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, this energy may manifest as hyperactivity. Signs include difficulty settling down, prolonged bursts of activity, and even destructive behaviors.
Excessive Barking: Dachshunds are known for their vocal nature. Triggers such as unfamiliar sounds, new people, or even boredom can lead to excessive barking.
Chewing: Puppies explore the world with their mouths, which often results in destructive chewing if not redirected appropriately.

2. Underlying Causes

Lack of Exercise: Dachshunds need regular physical activity, even though they’re small. Without it, they can become restless and prone to bad behavior.
Insufficient Mental Stimulation: Dachshunds are intelligent and require mental challenges to stay engaged. Puzzle toys, training games, and interactive activities can help burn off mental energy.
Inadequate Training and Socialization: Early training and exposure to different environments, people, and pets are essential. Without this foundation, unwanted behaviors may arise.

3. Breed-Specific Traits

Strong Prey Drive: Originally bred for hunting, dachshunds have a strong prey drive. This instinct can lead to impulsive behaviors like chasing small animals or reacting strongly to movement.
Stubbornness: Dachshunds are famously independent and can be challenging to train. This stubborn streak may contribute to “out-of-control” behavior if consistent training is not implemented.

When Do Dachshund Puppies Calm Down?

Dachshunds tend to start calming down after their first year, but their playful personalities usually remain active until around 3 to 4 years of age. Here’s what to expect at different stages:

First 6 Months: This is the most challenging phase. Puppies are curious, teething, and adjusting to their new environment. Expect plenty of chewing and high energy.
6 Months to 1 Year: As your dachshund becomes accustomed to house rules and routines, they’ll gradually become more manageable. However, they’ll still require regular outlets for their energy.
1 Year and Beyond: By their first birthday, most dachshunds are calmer than during their puppy phase. They’ll continue to be playful but should be easier to control with proper training and exercise.
3 to 4 Years: At this age, dachshunds reach full maturity. While they’ll still enjoy playtime, their energy levels will significantly decrease compared to their younger years.

Related post: Are Dachshunds Easy to Train?

Why Is My Dachshund Puppy So Aggressive?

Though dachshunds are generally sweet and playful, they can sometimes display aggressive behaviors. Understanding the root cause is essential for addressing this issue.

Reasons for Aggression

Breed History: Dachshunds were bred as hunting dogs, requiring courage and determination. Some of these traits, like territoriality and assertiveness, can manifest as aggression.
Fear or Anxiety: Puppies may react aggressively when they feel scared or threatened.
Territorial Instincts: Dachshunds can become possessive of their food, toys, or even their owners if not properly socialized.
Lack of Exercise or Stimulation: Excess energy and boredom can lead to frustration and aggressive tendencies.

How to Address Aggression

Provide Regular Exercise: Ensure your puppy gets enough physical and mental stimulation.
Socialize Early: Expose your dachshund to different people, pets, and environments in a controlled and positive way.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm and friendly behavior while discouraging aggression.
Hire Help if Needed: If time constraints prevent you from providing adequate exercise or training, consider hiring a dog walker or trainer.
Consult Professionals: If aggression persists, seek advice from a veterinarian or qualified dog trainer.

How to Calm a Dachshund Puppy

Here are some practical strategies to help your dachshund puppy settle down:

1. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Daily Walks: Ensure your puppy gets enough exercise to burn off excess energy.
Interactive Toys: Use puzzle feeders and toys to challenge their minds.
Training Sessions: Incorporate short training sessions to teach impulse control and commands.

2. Establish a Routine

Create a consistent schedule for waking up, meals, walks, playtime, and bedtime. Predictability helps reduce anxiety and hyperactivity.

3. Socialization and Calm Greetings

Gradually expose your puppy to various environments, sounds, and people.
Teach calm greetings by ignoring excited behavior and rewarding calmness.

4. Create a Safe Space

Designate a quiet area where your puppy can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. Make it inviting with a comfy bed and favorite toys.

5. Use Calming Techniques

Desensitization: Gradually expose your puppy to triggers like doorbells or visitors while rewarding calm behavior.
Mat Training: Teach your puppy to relax on a designated mat or bed for times when calmness is needed.

6. Provide Proper Nutrition

Ensure your puppy is on a high-quality, balanced diet suitable for their age and activity level. Avoid foods with artificial additives that may contribute to hyperactivity.

Related post: How to Potty Train a Dachshund Puppy

Final thoughts

Raising a dachshund puppy can be challenging, but with patience, consistency, and proper training, you can help them grow into a well-behaved and loving companion. Remember, every puppy is unique, so progress may vary. Celebrate small wins, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if needed.

Looking for more dachshund care tips? Check out our other articles to make life with your puppy as joyful and stress-free as possible!