Suppressing Aggression in Your Dachshund

Doxies are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be clever and tough. But that assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.You need to be the top dog.

Each dog will vary in degree, of course.There are submissive ones 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 reform their behavior, especially if you begin when they are young and stay consistent.

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

Discourage it by stepping on the leash 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 spinal problems.When they have released the lead, praise them generously.

To discourage excess barking or snapping or biting a squirt bottle comes in handy.Give your Dachshund a little squirt against the muzzle when he shows this behavior. Avoid the eyes.That startles your Doxie and it is unpleasant besides.Repeat, when 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 favored to counter-aggression.

If your Doxie continues, isolate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will sometimes try to shout or whine 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 profusely. Use a moderate amount of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different consequences 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 moderately aggressive during fetch by 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, since tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more frisky or tranquil dog will help.Aggression is partially caused by the frustration of pent-up energy with no positive outlet.

An aide can be a big help here.Pitch the ball to a friend several feet away, along the ground.When the Doxie gives chase, make sure the partner is the first to get the ball.Repeat the exercise a few times, then permit your Doxie to win.

With patience and a little inventiveness, you can channel your Dachshund's aggression into more positive directions.

LuvUrDog.com