Every Dachshund owner knows that you can’t go to the bathroom alone!
But why is that? Is your Dachshund worried that you might fall in? That there is a boogeyman hiking behind the shower curtain? Or that you might not “do it” right?
In all seriousness, there are logical explanations for why your Dachshund follows you everywhere around the house.
So let’s dive into the why behind your Dachshund might be a little shadow of neediness that craves constant attention.
Dachshunds Were Bred to Bond With Their People
Dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs, meant to work closely with humans to chase and burrow after prey. This close partnership has left them with a strong desire to form tight bonds with their owners.
Unlike some independent breeds, Dachshunds feel happiest when they’re by your side, whether you’re watching TV, walking around the house, or traveling.
The Dachshund’s Clinginess Explained
Very few Dachshunds today, especially in the US, are given the opportunity to fulfill their genetic hunting and tracking instincts. However, the core of what makes up a Dachshund’s personality remains unchanged.
Here are some common personality traits that may compel them to follow us around everywhere we go.
Attachment tendencies
Dachshunds are loyal to the core and can develop a strong preference for one person in their household. This is often why they follow their favorite person everywhere.
While it’s heartwarming, it can sometimes come across as overbearing.
Anxiety-prone nature
These dogs are known to be sensitive and may develop separation anxiety. They thrive in environments where they receive consistent affection and attention.
If left alone for long periods, their clinginess can escalate into stress-related behaviors like barking or destructive chewing.
They’re social dogs at heart
Although small, Dachshunds are social and thrive on interaction. They may follow you around simply because they dislike being left out of family activities or want to feel involved in your day-to-day life.
Learned behavior
Sometimes, the best answer is the simplest. Your Doxie may constantly follow you because they have learned that it pays off.
For example, your dog may follow you into the kitchen because they hear a cheese wrapper and you gave them cheese once (or it sounds close enough to their dog food or treat package).
Another example is following you into the bathroom and waiting for you to get out of the shower to lick your legs. Licking their person is very rewarding for a dog – it releases happy hormones like dopamine. It can also taste good, depending on what kind of soap that you used.
Or maybe their follow you to the door because they think it means walkies.
Addressing Clingy Behavior
Perhaps it’s shocking to some owners, but not everyone likes to be followed absolutely everywhere by their dog. However, in my experience, many Dachshunds owners grow to like or accept it as a quirk of the breed.
There is a “dark side” to not teaching your Dachshund to be ok without you though. I’ve consulted with many owners about their Dachshund’s behavior and a common thread between most issues is that their Dachshund has never been taught independence.
Also, obvious but worth pointing out is that it can be dangerous if your dog is always under foot. You could trip or something heavy or sharp could fall off the kitchen counter.
Whether your Dachshund’s neediness has become overwhelming for you, or you want a well-adjusted dog that can handle unexpected situations, taking these steps will help them feel secure while promoting independence.
Establish a routine
Dogs love predictability.
Personally, I don’t like a set schedule, but it is possible to create an atmosphere that both allows your dog to relax because they know what to expect and keep them adaptable to new environments and situations.
Things that should be more or less predictable for your Dachshund is wake up and go to bed times, feeding times, regular exercise, and undivided attention from you.
Things can and should vary within that structure in order to provide variety and mental stimulation though. Examples are varying the food that they eat, occasionally varying meal time(es) by an hour earlier or later, and varying distance and scenery when walking.
Encourage alone time
Gradually teach your Dachshund that the world won’t end if they are not right by your side – to be independent and to self-soothe (this will go a long way for more peaceful walks in the neighborhood, too).
One simple way to do this is to give your dog a treat dispensing toy that they can engage with independently while you walk into the other room for a few minutes.
If your dog still tries to follow you, try putting up a barrier like a baby gate, or putting them in a pen or crate to clearly communicate that they don’t need to come with you.
If your dog is so distressed by your absence that they won’t eat or they start to howl, take a step back and work with a Dachshund trainer to help you break this exercise down into manageable baby steps.
Involve other household members
When you involve other family members in training, feeding, and walking, your Dachshund is likely to bond with them as well.
When your family shares the love love, your dog probably won’t act as needy toward one person.
Provide exercise and mental stimulation
Sometimes, our Dachshunds follow us simply because they are frustrated and have pent-up energy. They’re looking for an outlet, and following us around is the most exciting thing going on in the house.
Regular walks, games of fetch, and puzzle toys can reduce this anxious energy.
Teach your Dachshund to settle
I know, some of you may be thinking, “Yeah, right!” But the truth is, dogs aren’t born knowing how to live peacefully and calmly with us in our homes.
It is possible, and I argue very necessary, to teach your dog when it’s time to be active and when it’s time to chill and lay down for a nap.
Personally, the number one tool I use for teaching this is a dog crate. When I sit down at my desk to work, at least until they learn what is expected during this time, I put them into their crate with a chew and leave them in for a nap.
However, my dogs are trained to be comfortable resting in a crate. If your dog is not, you can use an open-top playpen or choose a designated place, dog bed, or “place” for them to lay instead.
Just be aware that without the walls of a crate to clearly communicate to your dog that you want them to stay in that place, you will have to be more vigilant and provide more training and guidance.
Are All Dachshunds Clingy?
Not necessarily! While I know zero that don’t follow their owner around the house at least some of the time (and I have dog sat at least 100 over the years), the degree of clinginess varies.
Some of this is natural. Some dogs are just born more aloof and independent.
Some dogs appear less needy because they have been taught to be calm, well-adjusted, and to entertain themselves (not on by getting into trouble or by discovering their own “no-no” toy like your shoes).
FAQs About Dachshund Clinginess
Over the years, I have seen and been asked about the Dachshund’s attachment tendencies and habits. Here are some of the most common questions:
Why does my Dachshund prefer someone else in the family?
I’ve heard the story may times… ” I got a Dachshund to be my friend, and he prefers my husband. He isn’t interested in me!”
Doxies often bond more closely with one person, especially if that person feeds or spends the most time with them. However, sometimes the person that they choose as “theirs” is just random and can’t be influenced.
Is their clinginess a sign of a problem?
Some degree is normal in a Dachshund. However, it can be a problem if this neediness is driven by general anxiety, separation anxiety, or an unhealthy attachment.
It’s important to note that if it’s a sudden change in behavior, a vet visit is in order to rule out an underlying medical cause. A dog that doesn’t feel well, is often more anxious and agitated.
Final Thoughts
Dachshunds are undeniably charming and affectionate dogs, but their clingy nature might not be for everyone.
Understanding their needs and being prepared to meet them is key to a harmonious relationship.
With the right balance of love, training, and independence, your Dachshund will be a happy and enjoyable companion for years to come.
