Any dachshund owner knows that they can’t go to the bathroom by themselves.
But why is that? Is your dachshund worried you’ll fall in? There’s a boogeyman walking behind the shower curtain? Or do you mean you might not do it?
Seriously, there’s a logical explanation as to why your dachshund follows you everywhere in the house.
Let’s take a closer look why Behind your dachshund, there may be a small shadow of a needy person who constantly attracts attention.
Dachshunds were bred to bond with people.
Dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs, meant to work closely with humans in chasing prey and digging holes. This close partnership has created a strong desire to form strong bonds with their owners.
Unlike some independent dog breeds, Dachshunds are happiest when they’re by your side, whether it’s watching TV, walking around the house, or traveling. Masu.
Dachshund clingy explanation
Today, especially in the United States, very few dachshunds are given the opportunity to satisfy their genetic hunting and tracking instincts. However, the core of the Dachshund’s personality remains the same.
Here are some common personality traits that can’t help but follow us wherever we go.
attachment tendency
Dachshunds are deeply loyal and may have a strong preference for one person in the family. This is why they follow whoever they want everywhere.
While heartwarming, it can also come across as arrogant at times.
tendency to become anxious
These dogs are known to be sensitive and may develop separation anxiety. They thrive in an environment where they receive consistent love and attention.
If left unchecked for long periods of time, clinginess can escalate to stress-related behaviors such as barking and destructive biting.
They are social dogs by nature
Although small, Dachshunds are sociable and thrive on interaction. They may come after you simply because they don’t want to be left out of family events or because they want to feel included in your daily life.
learned behavior
Sometimes the simplest answer is the best answer. Your doxie may chase you all the time because she has learned that it pays off.
For example, your dog might follow you into the kitchen because he heard the sound of a cheese wrapper and you gave him the cheese once (or because it was close enough to the package of dog food or treats). if it was a sound).
Another example would be to take you to the bathroom and wait for you to come out of the shower before licking your feet. Licking your partner is a very rewarding act for dogs, and it releases happy hormones such as dopamine. Depending on the type of soap you use, the flavor will also be better.
Or maybe they follow you to the door because they think that’s what a walkie-talkie means.
Dealing with clingy behavior
Perhaps shocking to some owners, not everyone likes being chased absolutely everywhere by their dog. However, in my experience, many dachshund owners grow to like or accept their dachshund as a quirk of the breed.
However, there’s a “dark side” to not teaching your Dachshund that it’s okay without you. I have consulted with many owners about their dachshund’s behavior, and the common thread in most of the problems is that the dachshund has not been taught independence.
It’s also worth pointing out, while obvious, that it can be dangerous if your dog is constantly underfoot. Trips and heavy or sharp objects can fall off kitchen counters.
Whether your dachshund’s neediness has become too much for you to bear or you want a well-adjusted dog who can handle unexpected situations, these steps will give you peace of mind while promoting independence. You can get
establish a routine
Dogs love predictions.
Personally, I don’t like set schedules, but it is possible to create an atmosphere where your dog can relax because he knows what’s going to happen, and where he can adapt to new surroundings and situations.
The things that are more or less predictable for your Dachshund are wake-up and bedtimes, mealtimes, regular exercise, and focused attention from you.
However, things can and should change within that structure to provide variety and mental stimulation. Examples include changing the foods you eat, changing the time of your meals sometimes by an hour or so, and changing the distance or scenery you walk.
encourage alone time
Gradually teach your Dachshund that the world doesn’t end when he’s not by your side, that he should be independent and calm himself (this also helps with more peaceful walks around the neighborhood). helps a lot).
One easy way to do this is to give your dog a toy that gives him a treat to work on independently while you walk to another room for a few minutes.
If your dog still tries to chase you, set up a fence like a baby gate or put him in a cage or crate and make it clear that he doesn’t need to come with you.
If your dog is in so much pain without you that he stops eating or starts howling, take a step back and work with your dachshund trainer to break this exercise down into manageable small steps. Please help me.
involve other family members
If you involve other family members in training, feeding, and walks, your Dachshund is likely to bond with them as well.
If your family shares affection, your dog will probably not act as demanding towards one person.
Provides exercise and mental stimulation
Sometimes Dachshunds will chase us simply because they are irritated and have pent up energy. They’re looking for an outlet, and chasing us is the most exciting thing happening in the house.
Regular walks, fetch games, and puzzle toys can help reduce this anxious energy.
Teach your dachshund to calm down
Some of you may be thinking, “Oh yeah!” But the truth is, dogs are not born knowing how to live peacefully and calmly with us in our homes.
that teeth I would argue that teaching your dog when to be active and when to relax, lie down and take a nap is possible and very necessary.
Personally, the number one tool I use to teach this is a dog crate. When I sit at my desk to work, I chew and leave him in his crate for a nap, at least until he learns what is expected during this time.
However, my dog is trained to rest comfortably in his crate. If your dog doesn’t, you can use an open-top playpen or choose a designated area, dog bed, or “spot” to sleep instead.
Keep in mind that without crate walls, you won’t be able to clearly communicate to your dog that you want him to stay there, and you’ll need to be more alert and provide more training and guidance.
Are all dachshunds clingy?
Not necessarily! I’ve known dogs (I’ve sat at least 100 dogs over the years) who don’t follow their owners around the house at least sometimes, but the degree of clinginess varies.
Some of this is natural. Some newborn dogs have a more aloof and independent personality.
Some dogs appear less needy because they have been taught to be calm, well-adjusted, and to entertain themselves (not getting into trouble or having their own “bans” like shoes). (It’s not about finding toys or anything).
Frequently asked questions about clinginess in Dachshunds
Over the years, I have seen and been asked questions about Dachshunds’ attachment tendencies and habits. Here are some frequently asked questions:
Why does my Dachshund prefer other people in the family?
I have a dachshund as a friend, but he likes my husband better. He’s not interested in me! ”
Doxies often bond more closely with a particular person, especially if that person feeds them or spends a lot of time with them. However, in some cases, the person you choose as “yourself” is a coincidence and cannot be influenced.
Is their clinginess a sign of a problem?
Some degree of this is normal in Dachshunds. However, if this feeling of neediness is caused by general anxiety, separation anxiety, or unhealthy attachment, it can be a problem.
It is important to note that in cases of sudden changes in behavior, a veterinarian should be consulted to rule out any underlying medical causes. If your dog isn’t feeling well, he or she will often become anxious or agitated.
final thoughts
Dachshunds are undoubtedly charming and affectionate dogs, but their clingy personality may not be suitable for everyone.
Understanding their needs and being ready to meet them is the key to a harmonious relationship.
With the right balance of love, discipline, and independence, your Dachshund will be a happy and enjoyable companion for years to come.
