Behavior Problems in Dachsunds

As with all dog breeds, it is possible for dachshunds to develop behavioral problems. These can stem from a number of factors that mean the dog is not content, such as boredom and lack of exercise. Although it is a small breed, the dachshund is an active dog and requires a high amount of exercise to prevent behavioral problems from developing. Training a dachshund can also help prevent the dog from practicing unwanted behaviors. The dachshund was bred to think independently, so training can be more challenging than with other breeds.

  1. Destructive Behavior

    • Destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture and ripping up sofa cushions are caused by lack of exercise and mental stimulation. If the dog's needs are not being fulfilled he will look for ways to take out his frustration. To alleviate this behavior the dachshund must be taken for a long walk on a daily basis.

    Aggression

    • A dachshund can become aggressive towards people or other dogs if it has not been socialized. It is important to introduce the dachshund to new people and dogs on a regular basis when the dog is a puppy. An effective method of doing this is to take the dachshund to obedience training classes where it will learn basic obedience in the company of other dogs and people. Dachshunds often have a fearless and stubborn temperament so it is important for the owner to gain the dog's respect as a pack leader to prevent the dog from becoming dominant. Dominance can also get the dachshund into trouble if it tries to attack larger dogs. DogTrainingClassroom.com recommends owners practice firm training to show the dachshund that the owner is the boss.

    Excessive Barking

    • Dogs can bark for a number of reasons including boredom, excitement, loneliness or because they are feeling anxious. The dachshund can be an excessive barker, which can be annoying for the owners as well as the neighbors. Peteducation.com recommends that owners give the "lie down" command if the dog begins to bark excessively as it is less likely to bark if it is lying down. It is important for the owner to avoid shouting at the barking dachshund as the dog will then think that the owner is joining in. The owner should also avoid petting or attempting to sooth the dog when it is barking as this will only reward and reinforce the behavior.

    Digging

    • Because the dachshund was originally bred to flush animals such as badgers and foxes out of underground burrows they often enjoy digging. This is a natural behavior for a dachshund although this can also be seen as an undesirable behavior, especially if it is ruining the flowerbeds. Owners can alleviate this behavior by stimulating the dachshund mentally through play. Dachshunds enjoy interacting and playing with their owners and there are also a wide variety of dog toys that can be purchased online and in pet stores. A dachshund may also attempt to burrow out of a backyard because of lack of exercise and boredom so it is important to take the dog on a long walk daily to prevent this.