Excessive Barking in Dachshunds and How to Resolve It

Dachshunds are known for their lively personalities and strong barking instincts. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have a natural tendency to alert their owners to any perceived threats. However, excessive barking can become a problem, especially in residential settings. In this article, we’ll explore why Dachshunds bark excessively and how to effectively reduce this behaviour through training and management.

Why Do Dachshunds Bark So Much?

1. Natural Instincts

Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers, meaning they needed strong vocal abilities to alert hunters. This trait remains strong in the breed today.

2. Territorial Behaviour

Dachshunds are naturally protective and may bark excessively to guard their home, family, or perceived territory.

3. Separation Anxiety

This breed forms strong bonds with their owners. When left alone, they may bark excessively due to distress or anxiety.

4. Lack of Mental and Physical Stimulation

A bored Dachshund is a noisy Dachshund. Without sufficient exercise and mental engagement, they may bark to release pent-up energy.

5. Attention-Seeking

Some Dachshunds bark simply to get attention. If barking has worked in the past to get food, playtime, or affection, they may continue the habit.

6. Fear or Anxiety

Loud noises, new environments, or unfamiliar people can trigger excessive barking in a fearful Dachshund.

How to Stop Excessive Barking in Dachshunds

1. Identify the Trigger

Understanding what causes your Dachshund to bark excessively is key to solving the issue. Is it strangers at the door? Being left alone? Noises outside? Once you know the trigger, you can take targeted steps to reduce barking.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement Training

• Reward your Dachshund when they are quiet.

• Use a command like “quiet” or “enough” and reward them when they stop barking.

• Avoid yelling at them, as they may interpret it as you barking along with them.

  
  

3. Provide Adequate Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Dachshunds require daily physical and mental engagement. Try:

• At least 30 minutes of exercise per day

• Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys

• Training sessions to challenge their minds

  
  

4. Desensitisation and Counterconditioning

• If your Dachshund barks at strangers or noises, expose them gradually in a controlled manner.

• Reward calm behaviour when they encounter the trigger.

• Play recordings of triggering sounds at a low volume and slowly increase over time.

  
  

5. Train an Alternative Behaviour

Instead of barking, teach them to respond differently to triggers. For example:

• When the doorbell rings, train them to go to their bed instead of barking.

• Reward them for sitting quietly instead of barking at passing dogs or people.

  
  

6. Manage Separation Anxiety

• Start by leaving your Dachshund alone for short periods and gradually increase the time.

• Provide interactive toys or a safe space to keep them engaged.

• Avoid making a big deal out of departures and arrivals.

  
  

7. Avoid Encouraging Barking

• Do not reward barking with attention, food, or play.

• Ensure family members and visitors do not reinforce the behaviour unintentionally.

  
  

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If excessive barking persists despite training, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviourist for tailored advice. We offer extensive residential dog training solutions with a proven track record of resolving this behaviour.

Final Thoughts

Excessive barking in Dachshunds is a common issue, but with patience, training, and proper management, you can significantly reduce unwanted noise. Understanding their triggers, providing adequate mental and physical stimulation, and reinforcing calm behaviour will help you achieve a quieter and happier Dachshund.

Have you struggled with excessive barking in your Dachshund? Get in contact today. 🐶🔇