Dominance, fear, injury, genetics, and disease are all things that can cause Dachshund aggression. No matter what the cause, aggressive behavior must be addressed as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem can be dangerous to you, your dog, and any other people or dogs you encounter.
Sources of Aggressive Behavior in Dachshunds
Dachshund aggression can be seen at a very young age, even before they have left their mother. Socialization with other dogs and people is vital during the first four months of life. It is during this period of socialization that your Dachshund will learn things like dominance and biting from his littermates. Having exposure and kind treatment from humans will show that people are okay and can be trusted.
Dachshund puppies that are taken away from their mothers too early (before 8 weeks of age), treated roughly (yelled at or hit), or who have not been well socialized are at increased risk of behavioral problems, including aggression .
Dachshund aggression incidents can be triggered by a number of factors. Dachshunds were bred to be hunters, so genetics may play a part, although this is by no means always the case. Intact dogs are also more likely to show aggressive tendencies, one of many important reasons why your Dachshund should be neutered. The most important factor related to Dachshund aggression is environmental. If your Dachshund hasn’t been well socialized, has had negative experiences with people and other dogs, or had poor living conditions, he’s much more likely to show aggressive tendencies as he ages.
Owners of multi-dog households may see Dachshund aggression related to pack position. Your Dachshunds will likely test other dogs to see if they can move up the pack hierarchy. This aggression can take various forms, including biting, body language, and challenges. It is vital that from the day you receive your Dachsund you make it clear that you are the leader of the pack, maintaining this position throughout your dog’s life. If you don’t, your Dachshund may take the lead, which can be disastrous and lead to aggression towards you and other family members.
Stop Dachshund Aggression
Dachshund aggression that begins as adults is a serious problem that must be addressed immediately. Think about your home, are you the leader of the pack? Are you rewarding bad behavior, making the problem worse?
When working with your Dachshund, make sure you are a strong leader, teach him basic commands like sit, sit, and stay. Feed your Dachshund on a regular schedule after he has eaten, taking the bowl away after he has eaten. When you go for a walk, make sure you go in and out of the house first, and that your Dachshund is slack-leash trained, not pulling in front of you.
There are some situations in which you should not try to address the aggression yourself. Possibly the most important is fear aggression, where your Dachshund may bite when afraid. Particularly at risk are children that your Dachshund may view as a real threat. In these cases, you should seek the help of a dog trainer or behaviorist who can work with you to address your dog’s specific problem.
