14/06/2026
๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต๐๐ต๐๐ป๐ฑ ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐โฆ
Dachshunds and mini dachshunds are one of the breeds I commonly see for behaviour issues, and the reasons are usually very similar:
- Barking at everything that moves (or doesnโt move)
- Reactivity towards other dogs
- Leash pulling
- Lack of impulse control
- Destructive behaviour
Many of these behaviours are linked to exactly what the breed was developed to do.
Dachshunds were bred to hunt. They were selected for their ability to work independently, follow scent, have a booming bark, alert to activity, and make decisions without relying heavily on human direction. Those traits created a tough, determined little dog that excels at getting the job done.
In our homes and suburbs, those same traits can appear as barking, reactivity, frustration on lead, chasing, digging, and a tendency to make their own choices.
I often see owners trying to stop these behaviours without first teaching the dog what they should do instead.
A dog bred to be alert will notice everything.
A dog bred to make decisions will make plenty of them.
A dog bred to work will look for an outlet.
Training isnโt about removing those traits. Itโs about teaching the dog how to use them appropriately and giving them the skills to succeed in everyday life.
The dachshunds in this photo, Roxy & Daisy have been working on exactly that. After some handler focused play/work comes rest and more impulse control. Learning to focus around distractions. Learning that calm behaviour can be just as rewarding as reacting.
Theyโre still dachshunds. Theyโre still cheeky, determined, and full of personality.
Their owners just have more control over where and when those traits show up.
And for the households with two, three, or more dachshunds, youโll know how quickly one dogโs excitement can become everybodyโs excitement. Training one dog often benefits the whole household.
How many dachshunds do you have?
And whatโs the most โdachshundโ thing your dog does?
