Aggression Suppression in Your Dachshund
They are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be tough and innovative. But that assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.You must be the alpha dog.
Individual dogs will deviate in degree, of course.There are submissive Dachshunds though fewer than other breeds, on average.Some will try to demand on having their own way at all times, much like nearly all terriers.But basic puppy training can reform their behavior, especially if you begin when they are young and stay consistent.
Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward you, a family member, or strange people and animals.Chewing 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 Doxies are inclined to back problems.When they have released the leash, praise them abundantly.
To discourage biting or snapping or excess barking a squirt bottle comes in handy.Give your Dachshund a little squirt against the muzzle when he shows this behavior.Stay away from the eyes. That startles your dog and it is unpleasant besides.Avoid making it a contest of wills, but repeat if necessary.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a competitor. 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 sometimes try to whine or shout its way out of chastisement.Offer your dog sturdy chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he’s in the "time out" box.
Follow the negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.Look for instances of good behavior and praise it abundantly.Use a moderate number of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different end result of its own conduct in terms of your response.Doxies are resourceful.With persistence, they will learn.
For instance, one may become assertive during fetch by refusing to give up the ball.Try to distinguish between authentic willfulness and a mere desire to play a different game, tug.Make the difference clear by playing tug with a rope, which they love.
It’s key to tread a fine line, though, since tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or serene dog will help.Aggression is partially caused by the frustration of pent-up energy with no positive outlet.
An assistant can be a big help here. Toss the ball to a partner 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 creativity, you can channel your Dachshund’s aggression into more positive directions.
