Every Dachshund loves to bite and nibble occasionally, sometimes from affection, boredom, or other issues! But don’t worry – here is how you can stop Dachshund from biting:
Are Dachshunds Prone to Biting?
We all love and enjoy our little short-legged, floppy-ear Doxies, but we still must be fair – they are prone to biting! While it is not fair to generalize about an entire breed, it’s a known fact that Dachshund biting is a real thing! This nippy side of their personality comes from their hound lineage and hunting instincts. Dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs, specifically for tracking and digging out prey like badgers. Their job required them to be tenacious and assertive, which may manifest as a tendency to nip or bite when they feel threatened or challenged.
However, proper training and socialization can help manage this behavior, and your Dachie will be the perfect little wiener dog! With patience and positive reinforcement techniques, Dachshunds can grow up to become well-behaved companions without any biting tendencies.
Why Do Dachshunds Sometimes Bite?
Now, don’t worry; it’s not like your Dachshund has their own secret revenge plan or anything. There are a few reasons why these cute creatures sometimes like to have a little nibble. First off, they are curious little fellas – everything seems to end up in their mouth for a taste test. Secondly, they can be protective of their personal space, which can make them a tad bitty when strangers are close. Lastly, like any dog, they may also bite out of fear or anxiety. Let’s face it; life can be ruff!
Dachshunds most commonly bite strangers, but there are cases where they bite their owners or family members, even other dogs and pets. In most of the cases, it is not aggression that is the issue. Actually, Dachshunds are not an aggressive breed, but due to some changes, they can start to show unexpected behavior like biting.
Causes of Dachshund biting problem
Causes for Dachshund biting can be various, and here are some of the most common:
- If a Dachshund puppy bites, the reason may be teething. In this period, doxies may bite on your slippers, furniture, socks, your legs, and feet, well, pretty much anything they get their teeth on!
- Health issues can be cause for dachshund biting or aggression! Some illnesses that affect Doxies can cause serious pain, and in that state, they can start biting!
- Anxiety in dogs is a real deal, and it can be really bad! Dachshunds that suffer from anxiety can become prone to biting, showing aggression, and even hiding, running from owners, and many other problems.
- Excess energy can be a real problem since the dog is then unhappy, full of energy they need to spend. Then they can become nippy, disobedient, and even angry.
Luckily, we have found some step to step tips to stop your Dachshund from biting!
How to Stop Dachshund Biting? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Ok, your Dachshund is biting everyone and everything around them, and you need to nip that in the bud! Here is how to do that – step by step:
- Step 1: Teach them the “Leave It!” command. It won’t be easy since dachshunds can be hard to train, but you must be consistent! Start by showing them a treat, say “leave it,” and then reward them when they don’t immediately gobble it down like a vacuum cleaner.
- Step 2: Socialize! Expose your Dachshund to different people, places, and other dogs from an early age. This will help them become more comfortable around others and reduce their anxiety-related nip attacks.
- Step 3: Redirection! Instead of letting your furry friend munch on your favorite pair of shoes, distract them with a chew toy or treat. Show them there are better things to munch on than your precious belongings.
- Step 4: Teach them that biting never leads to a fun time. If your Dachshund gets a little nippy during playtime, calmly say “ouch” or “no” and withdraw your attention for a while. They’ll soon learn that their mouth-teeth activities are no-go if they want to keep the play going.
- Step 5: Seek professional help if needed. If your Dachshund’s biting habit persists or becomes aggressive, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a professional dog trainer. They can give you personalized tips to address specific behavioral issues.
Tips and Tricks to Help Your Dachshund Stop Biting
Now, here are a few extra tips and tricks that can help you and your Dachshund overcome this biting phase:
Never punish your Dachshund physically for biting. Remember, we’re aiming for peaceful coexistence with fluffy snuggles, and punishing is not the way to go!
Patience is key! Consistency and repetition are the secret weapons in teaching your Dachshund to stop biting and nipping. It takes time, but it will be worth a while!
Dogs are sensitive souls, so you need to maintain a cool and collected vibe when teaching them to bite inhibition. Losing your cool might make them think you’re one giant chew toy.
Give them enough daily activities and exercise, but also enough rest! After walking, running, and digging holes, your dog will spend their energy and be satisfied! Then you need to provide them with a comfy dachshund bed to support their spine and give them well-deserved rest!
So, we’ve covered the ins and outs of Dachshund biting – from their tendencies to the reasons behind it, and ultimately, how to train them to turn down the biting dial. Remember, even though they may have the chompers of a tiny shark, with a little patience, consistency, and a handful of love, you’ll have your Dachshund munching on treats instead of your ankles in no time.