Dachshund Temperament – Is This the Right Dog for
You?
Although these energetic canines are typically recommended for first time dog owners, not everyone can handle
the typical Dachshund temperament. These may be small dogs but their attitude can be extra large and always
entertaining.
Although these dogs are now predominantly pets and not hunters, they are still instinctive, clever, curious and
very independent. They can be exceptional family pets when trained properly but some homes just aren't prepared for
the diverse assortment of Dachshund personality traits they may be gifted.
Common Dachshund Behavior and Personality Traits
• Stubborn – The first thing to learn about Dachshund temperament is that these dogs can be beyond stubborn.
Establishing yourself as the boss early on will help but don't expect your dog not to still resist or test you from
time to time.
• Intelligent – One of the things that makes Dachshund personality issues so challenging is the fact that these
dogs are brilliant. If they don't listen to you, it's not because they don't understand what you want, it's because
they're smart enough to want to do their own thing or do what you want on their terms.
• Shy – Some say this is a flaw when examining Dachshund temperament but others suggest that it adds to their
charm. Dachshunds adopted out of shelters do tend to be quite shy but when treated properly and given time, they
too can become very affectionate. You can often see Dachshund behavior go from very withdrawn to begging to be
petted overnight simply because they feel comfortable and safe.
• Loyalty - This is one of the most desirable Dachshund personality traits that these little dogs are known for.
Once one becomes your friend, he will be loyal to you for life.
• Entertaining – One of the most favorable traits to speak of when examining Dachshund temperament is that there
is never a dull moment around them. They want to be the center of attention and are smart enough to do what they
can to have all eyes on them.
• Digger – Top at the list of undesirable traits in Dachshund temperament is that they dig, a lot! You really
can't get mad, it's instinct, this is what they were bred to do. While you may think you can simply ignore this
Dachshund behavior, they are small enough to get under fences and escape, yet destructive enough to tear up your
garden. They may even try to dig through your carpet! Either take steps to try to correct this Dachshund
personality trait or give yours a sandbox of his very own.
Dachshund Temperament – Can You Handle It?
Many negative Dachshund behavior issues can be avoided with companionship. These are not the type of dogs that
appreciate being left alone for long periods of time. Dachshund temperament is more favorable when the dog is
paired up with someone he can spend his day with whether that is laying around, going for a car ride or anything
else. Despite how independent they are, these dogs bond very closely with their owner which is why they are one of
the top recommended dogs for the elderly.
Many people are concerned about mixing the often impatient Dachshund personality with children but they can be
very good family pets. As long as children are taught to treat the dog with respect, Dachshunds are often happy
just to have one person around to give them attention. Whether your Dachshund temperament is very laid back like
some are or not, it is important that young children do not pick up these dogs. They are too vulnerable to back
injuries when handled improperly.
Like any other dog, Dachshund temperament is only partially genetic and the other part is developmental. When
socialized, trained and treated with love, Dachshund behavior problems are typically minimal. When mistreated,
you can hardly blame undesirable Dachshund personality traits that are resulted.
Related Articles:
Train a Dachshund – How to do it Right!
Do Dachshunds Shed? Yes, But Not Much
What is the Dachshunds Life Expectancy?
General Dachshund Information
Dachshund Health: Information You Need to Know
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