Dachshunds were bred to be hunting dogs, and like all hunting dogs, they tend to bark. Their bark can be loud, especially considering their small size. Many Dachshunds are sensitive to changes in their environments, which increases the likelihood of excessive barking. Owners can take a variety of steps to prevent and eliminate excessive barking.
Step 1
Create an environment that minimizes the reasons for barking. Dachshunds may bark if they don't receive sufficient exercise, so take your dog for at least one brisk 30-minute walk every day. Like many dogs, Dachshunds also tend to suffer from loneliness, boredom, and separation anxiety when they are left alone. Consider putting your dog in a comfortable crate with a chew toy when you're not able to be with them. If you must leave your dog home alone frequently, consider ways of providing some intermittent company. An isolated dog is not a happy dog.
Anxious dogs are more likely to bark at things in the general environment, and anxiety is often a product of insufficient socialization. Expose your Dachshund to a wide variety of places, people, and sounds beginning as a puppy and continuing through life, and you are far less likely to have an anxiously barking adult Dachshund.
Step 2
Teach your dog a "Quiet" command. When your Dachshund is being calm and quiet, approach your pet, say "Quiet," then click the training clicker and give your pet a treat. Repeat this exercise five to 10 times daily.
Step 3
Practice the "Quiet" command when your dog is barking. Wait until your Dachshund naturally stops barking, then say "Quiet," click the training clicker, and give the dog a treat. This helps your Dachshund to develop an association between being quiet and getting treats. Repeat this exercise every time your pet barks. After a week or two of practice, begin using the "Quiet" command when your Dachshund is barking. When the dog stops barking, give a treat.
Step 4
Teach your Dachshund a "Speak" or "Bark" command: When your dog is barking, say the command, click your training clicker, and give your Dachshund a treat. Repeat this process several times a day until the dog has learned to bark on command.
Step 5
Command your Dachshund to bark. Use the "Quiet" command to stop the barking. Click the training clicker and give the dog a treat. Now you can practice the "quiet" command even when your dog is not voluntarily barking at a perceived threat.
Tips & Warnings
- Putting your excessively barking Dachshund into a crate can stop the barking immediately because the crate gives your dog a sense of security and your action redirects the dog's attention. However, a dog's crate should always be a place of happy retreat, not punishment.
- Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medications if severe anxiety is the cause of your Dachshund's barking. Consult your veterinarian about the advisability of trying products such as herbal anti-anxiety food drops. A citronella collar may help to minimize barking without inflicting pain while you work on training your dog. The collar sprays the unpleasant odor of citronella under your dog's nose each time the dog barks. A variety of anti-bark devices of various efficacy are on the market, but none of these measures addresses the cause of the dog's barking.
- Aversive methods may work on a short-term basis but will not eliminate barking caused by anxiety and will not stop your dog from barking when you're not around. Reward-based methods are more effective. Yelling at your dog for barking is more likely to increase the barking than eliminate it. Many dogs bark for attention, and yelling is a form of attention.
Things Needed
- Crate
- Chew toys
- Training clicker
- Dog treats
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dachshunds bark so much?
Dachshunds, like all dogs, bark for a variety of reasons, including to communicate with their owners, to alert them to potential danger, to express excitement or anxiety, or simply out of boredom. Some dachshunds may bark more than others due to genetic factors or because they have not been adequately trained or exercised. It's important to provide dachshunds with the proper amount of exercise, training, and socialization to help reduce excessive barking. Consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can also be helpful in addressing excessive barking.
How do you stop a dog barking ASAP?
There are several methods for stopping a dog from barking, but the most effective will depend on the specific situation and the reason for the barking. Some possible methods include teaching the dog commands such as "quiet" or "enough" and rewarding them for obeying. If the dog is barking due to separation anxiety, for example, addressing the underlying issue through training and behavior modification can help. You can also try providing plenty of exercise, as a tired dog is less likely to bark excessively. In some cases, barking can be attention-seeking behavior. Ignoring the barking can help to reduce the likelihood that the dog will continue to bark. You can use anti-barking collars that emit a sound or a spray that distracts the dog and makes them stop barking. But please refrain from inhuman anti-barking collars that shock the dog. Some forms of barking may be due to medical conditions or other underlying issues, so it is always best to consult with a veterinarian or professional trainer to determine the best course of action.
Can you teach a Dachshund not to bark?
Yes, it is possible to teach a Dachshund not to bark excessively through training and behavior modification. However, it's important to remember that Dachshunds are known for being vocal breeds, and some barking is normal for them. It's also important to identify and address the underlying cause of the excessive barking, such as separation anxiety or boredom. Changes in behavior will take time and patience, so be consistent and persistent. Training should be done in a positive and humane way. Avoid using any form of punishment. Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior.
Are Dachshunds one-person dogs?
Dachshunds can be affectionate and loyal to their owners, but they are not considered to be "one-person dogs." They can form strong bonds with their owners and may be more reserved around strangers, but they can also be socialized to be friendly and outgoing with a variety of people. Dachshunds are a versatile breed. They can adapt to different living situations and can do well in a variety of environments, including homes with multiple people, children, and other pets. With proper socialization and training, Dachshunds can learn to be friendly and loving with a wide range of people.
What does it mean when a dog barks non-stop?
When a dog barks non-stop, it can indicate a variety of things, depending on the specific situation and context. Dogs that do not have enough physical and mental stimulation may bark to alleviate their boredom. Some dogs may bark excessively to get attention from their owners or other people. Dogs may bark non-stop due to separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or fear of unfamiliar people or animals. Dogs may bark non-stop to protect their territory and alert their owners to potential threats. Some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or cognitive decline, can lead to excessive barking. Dogs that have not been properly trained or socialized may bark excessively. A vet checkup is always a good idea to rule out any medical issues. Then, it is important to observe the dog's behavior and the context of the barking to determine the underlying cause of the problem and take appropriate action, whether that be through training, behavior modification, or addressing an underlying medical issue.
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