The Dog Site

Doxies are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be innovative and tough.  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 insist on having their own way at all times, much like nearly all terriers.But training can adjust their demeanor, especially if you start when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward you, strange people, a family member and animals.Biting the lead during training is one mild demonstration.

Discourage it by stepping on the lead close to their head.Then with the other foot, slowly pull the lead 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 abundantly.

To discourage snapping or excess barking or biting 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 surprises your Doxie and it is unpleasant besides.Repeat, if needed, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a competitor.  Firm consistency is preferred to counter-aggression.

If your Doxie continues, seperate 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 punishment.Give your dog rugged 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 illustrations of good behavior and praise it abundantly.Use a modest number of treats if needed.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different consequences of its own conduct in terms of your response.Dachshunds are resourceful.With persistence, they will learn.

For example, one may become moderately aggressive during fetch, refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between genuine willfulness and a simple 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 partly caused by the frustration of pent-up energy with no positive outlet.

A helper can be a big help here.Pitch 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 let the dog win.

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

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Tags: aggression, Dachshund, Dachshunds, dog, dog training, Dogs, Doxie, Doxies, Pets, suppressing aggression