Why Is My Dachshund So Bossy?
Dachshunds, with their endearing appearance and spirited personalities, are beloved pets for many dog enthusiasts. However, one quality that frequently distinguishes these little sausages is their domineering demeanour. You’re not alone if you’ve ever questioned why your dachshund appears so dominant.
Instinctual Traits
Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany for hunting purposes, primarily to track and hunt small game like badgers. This hunting background has given them sharp instincts and a determined demeanour. Independence, confidence, and a strong will, which made them good hunters, can appear as bossiness in a household situation.
Territorial Instincts
Dachshunds are known for their territorial nature. They possess a natural instinct to safeguard their area and can display dominant behaviour when they sense any intrusion. This can involve protecting their food, toys, or even their preferred spots within the household. In response to perceiving a threat or challenge to their belongings, they may exhibit bossy behaviour as a way to establish dominance.
Attention-Seeking Behaviour
Dachshunds are sociable dogs that thrive on attention and interaction with their human family members. When they don’t receive the attention they desire, they may resort to bossy methods to get noticed. This can include barking, pawing, or demanding to be petted or played with.
Lack of Leadership
A lack of obvious leadership within the household is one of the most common reasons dachshunds display bossy behaviour. By nature, dogs are pack animals who flourish in surroundings where they understand their place in the hierarchy. Dachshunds may step up to fill the leadership hole when there are inconsistent rules and boundaries, leading to dominant behaviour.
Small Dog Syndrome
Sometimes, dachshunds may develop what is known as “Small Dog Syndrome.” This happens when smaller dog breeds exhibit bossy, domineering behaviour to compensate for their tiny stature. To establish their position in the family, they may strive to assert themselves over larger canines or humans.
Managing Bossy Behaviour in Dachshunds
Understanding why your dachshund is bossy is the first step in addressing and managing their behaviour. Here are some strategies to help you cope with your assertive Sausage:
Consistent Training: Maintaining consistency is crucial when it comes to training a dachshund. It is important to establish well-defined rules and boundaries, and to acknowledge and reward desirable behaviours with both praise and treats. However, it is equally important to refrain from rewarding or encouraging bossy behaviour, as this can inadvertently strengthen it.
Socialisation: It is important to introduce your dachshund to different individuals, animals, and environments at an early stage. Proper socialisation can assist in minimising territorial behaviour and dominant tendencies.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation: To prevent your dachshund from becoming bossy, it is important to provide them with ample exercise and mental stimulation, ensuring they do not get bored.
Leadership: Be a confident and consistent leader for your dachshund. Set the tone for the household and establish yourself as the pack leader without resorting to harsh or punitive methods.
Seek Professional Help: If your Sausage’s dominant behaviour becomes a significant challenge, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist for guidance.
While dachshunds may have a bossy streak, their spirited personalities can make them wonderful and entertaining companions. By understanding the reasons behind their assertive behaviour and implementing appropriate training and management techniques, you can help your dachshund channel their strong-willed nature into more positive and obedient behaviours, fostering a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend.
