Dachshunds are a smart dog breed and were initially bred for hunting. Even with their bold and cute nature, the breed is suspected to have massive aggression. This aggression is linked to their long history of hunting badgers.
Badgers too, are smart and mean. They have several cunny ways of adapting to their environment. Hence the reason why dachshunds are built in a sophisticated way; they are bred to think fast to subdue the badgers. Other environmental factors make dachshunds quite aggressive. They show aggressive traits, but, with the right training, you can correct this aggressive nature.
What is the Cause of Their Aggression?
Basically, it is genetics. Dachshunds are wired to be aggressive. However, genetics is not the only factor that controls their aggression. Dachshund, just like any other dog will be aggressive if they are afraid of harm.
If you threaten the dog, fear hormones are released, and they will have a fight or flight response. When your dachshund is in this state, chances are it will take the fight option because of its genetic makeup. Take away whatever causes fear in your Dachshunds. Avoid bringing bigger dogs to the house and prevent frequent invasion of its private space.
Keep your visitors in the sitting room. Allowing them to move around the house freely, mostly when your dachshund has not accepted them, can increase Dachshund aggression.
Dachshund will also be aggressive when they are guarding resources and have anxiety issues. They like to be in control over what they kill or their properties; toys, or food.
Can Dachshunds’ Aggression Be Managed?
Aggression of your Dachshunds can be managed only when you identify the cause of dachshund aggression and prevent it. Ensure you don't barge into their personal space too frequently. If you don't know what aggression looks like, next time when you see your dachshund's direct eye contact, know it is trying to give a contact warning. Also, snarling and growling is another sign of warning about its personal space.
It would help if you always prevented your visitors from going around your dachshund; they don't like it. Keep the house quiet at all times. Focus on giving it a particular area in the house to colonize, it will keep it safe, and whenever threatened, it will retreat to that area.
Always ensure your dog is well exercised daily. It should have its playtime. Playtime reduces its anxiety. Do not punish your dachshund, especially by inflicting physical pain; it will worsen the aggression.
You can also control their aggression by dominating them from a very young age. They should see you as their master and not someone they can growl at. This is best taught at a very young age. You can do this by following some basic cues; for example, when going for a walk, ensure you are the first to come out of the gate before it does.
Other research has shown that if you reduce their chasing activities to the barest minimum, you will control their aggression to a reasonable extent. This is good, especially if you have children around the house.