subject: How To Stop Dachshund Puppy Biting [print this page] Dachshunds were bred to look for verminDachshunds were bred to look for vermin. To do their work, Dachshunds needed to work autonomously and use their own resourcefulness when out on the hunt. These traits can still be seen today in Dachshunds, manifesting themselves in behaviors including barking and biting. They can rapidly become problems if Dachshunds are not well taught as puppies. Begin training or go to puppy classes as soon as you obtain your Dachshund and certainly if you notice any nipping or aggression.
People's responses to puppies behaving badly is typically to remark on how adorable they look, not understanding that the puppy is trying out behaviors to spot what they can get away with, and what position in the home they hold. Each year thousands of dogs finish up in shelters, may euthanized because of behavior problems that were not addressed at an early age.
Start Young
As soon as you start the search for a Dachshund puppy ask breeders to show you a litter. Watch the puppies playing and experimenting with behaviors and see how they learn through pointers from their litter mates. With puppy biting watch how if one puppy nips another, the one who was nipped will most likely bite back. This tells the first puppy that biting is not tolerable and, after a few times, the behavior stops and the puppy knows not to bite.
Puppies will try out the waters again when you bring them home. You have to be constant and not allow them to begin biting again. The first instance you see your Dachshund puppy biting you must take action and initiate training. When small puppies bite it is still play biting and part of them learning about their surroundings. As such you should never be physically violent with them. At this age they will not comprehend and will just be scared. Striking Dachshund puppies will just frighten them and may well result in added behavioral problems later in life.
Consistency and equality are significant when stopping Dachshund puppy biting, and in fact when training Dachshunds at all. Dachshunds react best to positive training techniques, especially if they consider they are in charge!. Again, consistency is the key. Be sure to give a reward (treat, toy or attention) for positive/desired behaviors and discourage unwanted behaviors. All family members must know how to train your Dachshund so they are giving the same, constant information and rewards. Modify your interactions with your Dachshund so you are not unconsciously reinforcing poor behavior. For example, with Dachshund puppy biting don't play tug of war or wrestle with them. Dachshunds were intended to be hunters and will likely spot a tug toy as prey. Do not be surprised to hear them growling and view them biting at the toy, and you, if you play tug!
How to Stop Dachshund Puppy Biting
What is your first thought when your Dachshund puppy nips you? If it is to discipline them, then stop and take a breath, this is not the best thing to do. What you do need to do is teach them that nipping is not acceptable in a positive manner. In a firm voice simply say "no" and take your hand away from their mouth. Provide them one of their toys and give praise when they start playing with it. Alternatively, instead of saying "no" you can give a high pitched yip. This sounds similar to the sound another puppy would make when bitten and will remind your Dachshund of what used to happen with their litter mates! Again present a toy and reward appropriate behavior.
After you are consistent using this technique you will notice your Dachshund puppy soon learns that biting you is not all right, but chewing their toys is. This technique will work with Dachshunds of all ages, although it may be harder on adults who have not been trained or taught to not bite.
Puppy and dog training lessons are a necessity for puppies that don't react well to the system described above or for older Dachshunds who are more aggressive. A training class will give you professional support in stopping your Dachshund puppy biting and will also give an opportunity for socialization with other dogs and people, something that is very important for Dachshunds. As a responsible Dachshund owner you need to provide for the physical and mental well being of your Dachshund. This involves training them and addressing any problems that arise before they become severe.
Working with your Dachshund to solve problems as they arise will advance the bond you have with your Dachshund as well as reducing the danger of more significant issues later in life.
