Dachshunds also known as the ‘wiener dogs’ are famous because of their elongated bodies and floppy ears. These dogs are great human companions but most people ask one question again and again “Can I leave my dachshund alone? The answer is not simple because it depends on a lot of factors including the dog, age, temperament, training, and patience of the owner. Here in this blog, we will look at different factors to keep in mind tips to follow when leaving your dog alone, and some solutions to different challenges.
Understanding the Dachshund Temperament
Dachshunds are famous for their intelligence, loyalty, and playfulness but they were originally bred as hunting dogs and they have a very curious nature which makes them very independent. However, their deep bond with their human is what makes them prone to separation anxiety.
This breed suffers from separation anxiety when left alone for longer periods because:
- They love social interaction and live like pack animals and they are often in search of human companionship.
- When they are left alone for a longer period they suffer from stress and show behaviors like chewing, barking, or house soiling.
- These dogs are very intelligent and get bored easily bored dog is a destructive dog and then they use their teeth and claws to explore things in the house.
Age Matters: Puppies vs. Adults
The age of your dachshund plays a role in telling you how long you can leave your dog alone:
Dachshund Puppies
Puppies need more attention and care than adult dogs. They are going through the developmental stage where they learn socialization, house training, and how to cope with being left alone. Leaving a dachshund puppy alone for a longer period will affect their emotional development and cause behavioral issues in them. If you want to leave dachshund puppies alone you can do this for a maximum of 1 to 2 hours and then increase the time as they become independent.
Adult Dachshunds
Adult dachshunds can handle the situation of being left alone better than puppies but still, there are some limits. Different factors like personality, training, and energy level will affect how long you can leave them alone comfortably. If you have a well-trained adult dachshund he can tolerate the alone time for 4 to 6 hours and in some cases up to 8 hours.
Preparing Your Dachshund for Alone Time
If you prepare well leaving your dachshund alone would not be a stressful event for you or your pup. You just have to make sure that they stay safe, comfortable, and mentally stimulated.
1. Start with Short Intervals
If your pup is not used to staying away for a long time then start by leaving them alone for a small period and gradually increase the time. This way they will build confidence and learn that you will always return.
2. Create a Safe Space
Create a special space for them where they would go while you are gone. This can be a playpen. Crate or a dog-proof room. Whichever space you choose make sure it has a soft blanket or bed and there are no hazardous objects like toxic plants or cords in that room. The most important thing is to provide a lot of toys or games to keep their mind engaged.
3. Exercise Before You Leave
A tired dog is always a happy dog so before you leave engage your pup in some physical or mental exercise this can be a game of fetch or walk or a training session. This will reduce their energy level and they will likely sleep when you are not there.
4. Leave Background Noise
Dachshund stays comfortable in a familiar sound. If you leave the TV on to a low volume that mimics the presence of human it will help in reducing their anxiety.
5. Offer Treats and Toys
Different toys like treat dispensing toys or interactive toys will keep your dachshund busy for a long time. Frozen treats or chew toys can also help in alleviating boredom. Dachshund interactive crab toy can become the best companion for your pup in times of separation anxiety. It is made of durable material and it has a motion sensor device so if anything comes in the way it will change direction.
With the longtime rechargeable battery, this toy can keep your pup engaged for many hours.
Signs Your Dachshund Struggles with Being Alone
Every dachshund is different and not every pup adjusts to alone time easily. Some common signs to watch for separation anxiety are:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Destructive behaviors
- House soiling
- Pacing or restlessness
If your dachshund is showing these behavior he may need more training or support to manage alone time.
Overcoming Separation Anxiety
If your pup is suffering from separation anxiety different steps that can help in easing the situation are:
- Start desensitization training and practice leaving and coming back home a normal thing. Gradually increase the time of staying away.
- Use different calming products like collars, sprays, and diffusers to reduce anxiety.
- If you stay away for too long a pet sitter or dog walker can help you in this situation.
- Severe separation anxiety will need professional help from a vet like medication or behavior modification training.
Alternatives to Leaving Your Dachshund Alone
If you are an owner who stays away for long and have busy hours then leaving your dog alone is not the best option. Some alternatives to overcome this problem are:
- Take help from doggy daycare it is a facility that will provide your dachshund supervision and socialization.
- Ask any close family member or friend to check on your dog or he can stay with them.
- If it's possible spend more time with your pet.
Conclusion
You can leave your dachshund alone but you will need preparation, training, and consideration before you do this. Puppies need regular attention and care and frequent potty breaks on the other hand adults can stay alone for hours if they are trained properly. If you create a safe environment and establish a routine then your dachshund will feel safe and behave well in your absence. Keep in mind that whenever you are in doubt seek professional help so your pup stays happy and healthy.