When owning a Dachshund, I’m sure you’ve already heard it bark even more than it ever bit or growled at anyone. While it may have been cute at first, it now seems irritating, especially when they begin to bark at the middle of the night for no apparent reason! Why do Dachshunds bark so much anyway?
It’s actually not a huge mystery and there are several reasons why besides it being a part of their traits as a dog breed. If you want to learn more about Dachshunds barking a LOT, then read on! I’ll be showing you the top reasons why.
Why Do Dachshunds Bark So Much?
All dogs bark, as it’s an innate behavior in all of them. While one bark once in a while is totally normal, barking every second is too much and can be quite a problem. Unfortunately, it’s a huge problem for Dachshund owners, and for a reason.
If you want to know why they bark a lot, here are the five reasons why:
It’s Part of Their Breed
Dachshunds tend to bark a lot because they can. After all, they have the lungs for it and have the loud barks thanks to their large lungs and chests. Plus, it’s in their blood, as these small-sized dogs were bred for hunting similarly-sized animals.
As natural born hunters, they have the lungs to bark as loud as they can and have the stamina to do so to become more effective in their job. So yes, it’s difficult to find a Dachshund that doesn’t bark at all, since all of them were born not only to run but to make noise.
Plain Boredom and Lots of Energy
Like mentioned, Dachshunds are born to be hunters. Because of this, they have the stamina and energy levels for the hunt. With these huge bouts of energy, they need to channel it out. If they can’t and are restricted, then the frustration would lead to a LOT of barking as an avenue to remove that frustration and pent up energy.
If they’re bored at home and have nothing to do, they WILL bark and signal you that it’s time to play or take a walk outside. Make sure that they have adequate exercise and playtime to get all their energy out for some quiet time in the house.
Stress or Separation Anxiety
Dachshunds, as explained below, want attention and are loyal dog breeds who love their owners. If left for long periods of time, they may start feeling anxious from the separation or loneliness. When left alone, a Dachshund tends to bark, howl, and make a lot of noise until his owner gets back, which can disturb the neighbors at home a lot.
When your Dachshund barks as he sees or senses you leaving, it means he doesn’t want you out and needs the company and/or attention.
Something On Their Territory
Just like so many dogs bred for hunting, Dachshunds still have that prey drive that won’t go away even if they are indoor dogs. So expect your Dachshund to react when they feel or see something (or someone) unknown get to their territory. How do they react? Obviously, by barking, showing dominance and ownership of their space!
As territorial dogs, expect them to bark the moment they sense or see something approaching their areas, such as mailmen, strangers, or small animals. Barking indicated that he’s protecting his home and territory, which is totally normal.
They Need Attention
Dachshunds are such interesting dogs, also known to be very happy and playful besides energetic. Besides this, they are as loyal as many dogs and love their owners, seeing them as pack leaders and their parents. So of course, just like humans, they want the attention from the ones they admire and love the most!
Your dog can be frustrated if they don’t get enough attention from their owners, which lead them to bark until they get that attention. As social creatures, being neglected will have them bark a ton, which has to be reinforced with the love and attention they need.
This hilarious video shows proof as to how much a Dachshund barks and makes noise, go check it out:
Wrapping It Up
Dachshunds bark a LOT for various reasons, and as long as you train them well and discipline, they won’t have much trouble barking in the long run. It all boils down to knowing why it happens and taking the steps on stopping it properly. That way, you won’t have to wake up in the middle of the night or have people complain about the noise.
I hope that this article answers your question, “why do Dachshunds bark so much?” Now that you know the reasons, take the proper steps to prevent them from barking too much again!