Pets

How to stop your dachshund from chasing cats

Dachshunds were bred to hunt and catch badgers, so it shouldn’t surprise you if you hear of a Dachshund chasing cats.

Dachshunds will often chase cats, or even any small animals, because they see them as encroaching on their territory. Most Dachshunds don’t see the cat as their next meal, they just want to get it out of their territory. Most of the time, the cat will run away, reinforcing the Dachshund’s behavior, meaning it will chase the next intruder it sees.

There are some Dachshunds that chase because they want to play, but it is a brave cat that stands its ground against a dog. Cats that stand and fight are often in great danger, especially against an opponent such as a Dachshund, bred to find and kill badgers, much more solid creatures than a domestic cat.

Stop a dachshund chasing cats

It is important to understand that you will likely never completely stop your Dachshund from chasing cats. Therefore, it is important to be on the lookout for cats in the area and to keep your Dachshund on a leash until they are gone.

If you have a cat, you can train your Dachshund not to chase it, but it can take time. Start by putting your Dachshund on a leash. Take them into the room where the cat is and have them sit down. If they try to chase the cat, tell them “no” and sit them back down. When they are calm, you can approach the cat and get your Dachshund to sit again if he lunges at the cat. The goal is to have them close enough that your cat and Dachshund can find and observe each other. Dachshunds are renowned hunters, so don’t be surprised if it takes several sessions before your Dachshund can adequately meet your cat without chasing him.

You can also train your Dachshund with the “leave it” command. To do this, pick up a treat and let your Dachshund sniff it. Keep it in your hand and tell your Dachshund to “put it down.” They are likely to continue sniffing, that’s fine. Don’t say or do anything, just watch and wait. The moment he looks away, give him the treat and praise him. Repeat the exercise until your Dachshund walks away when you say “leave it.” Once trained, when you say “leave it,” your Dachshund should walk away from your cat.

I can’t stop my dachshund from chasing cats

Unfortunately, there will be Dachshunds whose chase drive is so high that they cannot be trained not to chase, especially if your cat is outgoing and likes to provoke your Dachshund. In cases like this, the only option you have is to keep the dog and cat apart. This may involve keeping them separated in different areas or training your Dachshund while you are away from home.

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