Puppy Care

Dachshunds are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be tough and clever.That assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.  You need to be the alpha dog.

Individual dogs will deviate in degree, of course.  There are submissive Doxies though fewer than other breeds, on average.  Some will try to insist on having their own way at all times, much like most terriers.But training can adjust their behavior, especially if you commence when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive behavior, whether toward a family member, you, or strange people and animals.Gnawing the leash during training is one mild manifestation.

Discourage it by stepping on the leash close to the dog’s head.  Then with the other foot, slowly pull the leash down to the ground closer and closer to the collar.Take care not to stress their neck, as they are prone to back problems.When they have let go of the lead, praise them lavishly.

To discourage biting or excess barking or snapping a squirt bottle comes in handy.  When your dog shows this behavior, give him a little squirt against the muzzle.Stay away from the eyes.That scares your Dachshund and it is unpleasant besides.  Repeat, if necessary, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a enemy.  Firm consistency is preferred to counter-aggression.

If your Dachshund persists, isolate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will at times try to whine or shout its way out of punishment.Assign your dog sturdy chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he’s in the “time out” box.

Be sure to follow this negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.Look for illustrations of good behavior and praise it abundantly.  Use a moderate amount of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different outcome of its own behavior in terms of your response.Dachshunds are intelligent.  With persistence, they will catch on.

For instance, one may become moderately aggressive during fetch, refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between authentic willfulness and a mere desire to play a different game, tug.  Make the difference clear by using a rope for tug, which they love.

It’s key to tread a fine line, though, because tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or calm dog will help.Aggression is partially caused by the frustration of pent-up energy with no positive outlet.

A friend can be a big help here.Pitch the ball to a friend several feet away, along the ground.Make sure the partner is the first to get the ball when the Dachshund gives chase.Repeat the exercise a few times, then permit your Dachshund to win.

With patience and a little inventiveness, you can channel your Dachshund’s aggression into more positive directions.

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