Dachshunds are such charming dogs in the canine world, they have long unique bodies, short legs, and a very alert nature. Originally these dogs come from Germany and they were used for hunting, their strong instinct and high energy levels are a distinct part of their personality. However, sometimes their characteristics can be problematic and cause some behavioral issues that are very easy to manage. Here in this blog, we will discuss the behavioral problems in dachshunds and some strategies that can help in overcoming these problems.
Common Behavioral Problems in Dachshunds
1. Separation Anxiety
Dachshunds are very affectionate and loyal dogs and they have a very strong bond with their owners. This bond looks so cute but it can be problematic because of separation anxiety if you leave them alone for a long period. Some common signs that you will find are whining, barking, destructive chewing and sometimes they will try to escape from the room.
To overcome this problem of separation anxiety you can gradually train them to stay alone and you can start this by leaving them alone for a short time and then increasing the time duration. Other things you can do are to provide them with comfortable space and clothing items that have your scent in them. You can also crate train your pup and once they get trained they will feel safe in the crate.
2. Excessive Barking
These beautiful pups have a very loud bark, and this trait comes from the days when they were hunting dogs and used barking to alert the hunters. If this trait is not managed properly they will bark excessively especially if they find any threat from strangers or get into boredom. This problem can be overcome easily if they are barking out of boredom provide them with toys or any activity that can keep them engaged. If they stay calm reward them for this behavior. However, try not to respond by barking with attention as this will only reinforce the behavior.
3. Aggression and Territorial Behavior
Dachshunds are very protective of their families and they can sometimes show aggression to other animals and strangers. This aggressive behavior is also because of their hunting nature. This problem can be corrected by early socialization by exposing them to different people, animals, and situations from a young age so they stay calm in different situations. Positive reinforcement training is also very helpful as you can teach them to stay calm in different situations.
4. Resource Guarding
Just like other dogs dachshunds have a habit of guarding their toys, food, and space by snapping, growling, and biting if they feel they are threatened. This is a serious problem if you live in a house that has small children and other pets.
To manage this problem you have to practice the “drop it” command and offer them something in return like a treat that they like. This way they will learn to trade guarded items with something they love. Don’t try to take anything from their mouth directly as this will only reinforce the behavior. Always give them something in exchange like a bone or toy so they will let go of the guarded item.
5. Digging
Dachshunds were bred to originally dig out small animals like badgers and this instinct is still deeply enrooted in them. Some pups dig out in the backyard yard while others start digging on the bedding or carpets. To address this behavior give some space to your pup where they can do some digging. You can give them a designated digging area in the backyard or provide them with a sandbox filled with treats and toys to keep them entertained. Make sure they get proper physical and mental exercise as boredom leads to an increase in digging behavior.
6. Leash Reactivity
Another problem that can occur with these pups is leash reactivity, and they will lunge at other animals and people. This is because of excitement, fear, or territorial behavior and it became very challenging to take them out for a walk.
This problem can be cured by counter-conditioning and desensitization. Expose your pup to other stimuli or dogs when they are at a distance and if they stay calm reward them with treats. As they get used to the situation decrease the distance and make sure they stay calm. You can make the situation more easy by practicing commands like “focus” and “sit” to redirect their attention when they are distracted. Regular training will help in keeping your dog calm and decrease the leash reactivity.
7. Scent Tracking
These fur balls have a strong prey drive and they follow the scent of other animals obsessively in the situation they even ignore the commands and wander behind the smell. To take control of this situation practice commands like “come” in different environments until they start responding to the command. You can also use treats to get their attention and when they respond reward them with a treat. You can also play some nose games with them to keep their nose busy. Such games will help them use their instincts and satisfy their urges.
Tips for Training Dachshunds
- Consistency: They are very intelligent dogs but sometimes they don’t follow commands if there is inconsistency. So stay consistent with commands.
- Positive Reinforcement: Dachshunds respond greatly to positive reinforcement. Reward them with praise and treat to encourage them to repeat the behavior.
- Patience: These pups have an independent nature which can make the training difficult. Staying patient is the key in different situations.
- Early Socialization: Socialization is very important for these dogs, especially from a young age as it will help in reducing territorial aggression and anxiety when they are around strangers and other animals.
Conclusion
Dachshunds are intelligent and loyal dogs but they need regular training and a balanced approach. If you understand the reason behind any behavior usually because of their hunting background it will make it easier to address the issue effectively. With proper training and management, they can be successfully managed and they can become happy companions. Proper training will not only strengthen the behavior but also make it more rewarding and fulfilling.