Apr 16 2009
Aggression Suppression in Your Dachshund
Dachshunds are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be imaginative and tough. But that assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you. You need to be the alpha dog.
Each dog will deviate in degree, of course. There are submissive Doxies though fewer than other breeds, on average.Some will try to demand on having their own way at all times, much like most terriers.But training can modify their demeanor, especially if you start when they are young and stay consistent.
Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive behavior, whether toward you, strange people, a family member and animals.Gnawing the leash 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 leash 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 released the lead, praise them abundantly.
To discourage biting or excess barking or snapping a squirt bottle comes in handy.When you Dachshund shows this behavior, give him a little squirt against the muzzle. Avoid the eyes.That startles your Doxie 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 enemy.Firm consistency is favored to counter-aggression.
If your Doxie continues, seperate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will from time to time try to whine or shout its way out of punishment.Present your dog with 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 illustrations of good behavior and praise it abundantly. Use a moderate amount of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different outcome of its own course of action in terms of your response.Dachshunds are intelligent. With persistence, they will catch on.
For example, one may become assertive during fetch by refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between authentic willfulness and a simple desire to play a different game, tug.Make the difference clear by playing tug with a rope, which they love.
It is 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 placid dog will help. Aggression is partly caused by the frustration of pent-up energy with no positive outlet.
An assistant can be a big help here.Pitch the ball to a friend 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 your Dachshund win.
With patience and a little inventiveness, you can channel your Doxie’s aggression into more positive directions.
No responses yet
