Dominance, fear, injury, genetics, and illness are all things that can cause Dachshund aggression. No matter what the cause, aggressive behavior needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem can be dangerous for you, your dog, and any other person or dog you come across.
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 socialization period that your Dachshund will learn things like dominance and biting from her littermates. Having exposure and friendly treatment from humans will show that people are okay and can be trusted.
Dachshund puppies who are separated from their mothers too soon (before 8 weeks of age), who are treated roughly (yelled at or hit), or who have not been well socialized are at increased risk for behavior problems, including aggression .
Dachshund aggression incidents can be triggered by a number of factors. Dachshunds were bred to be hunters, so genetics can play a part, although this is by no means always the case. Intact dogs are also more likely to display aggressive tendencies, one of the many important reasons why your Dachshund should be neutered. The most important factor related to Dachshund aggression is environmental. If your Dachshund has not been well socialized, has had negative experiences with people and other dogs, or has had poor living conditions, he is 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 are likely to test other dogs to see if they can move up the pack hierarchy. This aggression can take many 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 the life of your dog. If you don’t, your Dachshund may take over 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 needs to be addressed immediately. Think of 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 from him after he has eaten. When you go out for a walk, make sure you go in and out of the house first, and that your Dachshund is trained to walk on a slack leash, without pulling in front of you.
There are some situations where you should not try to address the assault yourself. Possibly the most important is fear aggression, where your Dachshund may bite when fearful. Particularly at risk are children that your Dachshund may see 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.
