Dachshunds really love to chew—it’s just in their nature as a hunting breed. Your wiener dog uses their mouth to explore, ease boredom, and soothe teething pain.
Understanding why your dachshund chews is the first step to managing this behavior and stopping it from turning destructive.
If your dachshund has started destroying shoes, furniture, or other household items, don’t panic. You can redirect this behavior with training, good toys, and clear boundaries.
Most chewing problems come from boredom, anxiety, or a lack of proper outlets for their instincts.
Key Takeaways
- Dachshund chewing is normal but needs guidance through training and the right chew toys.
- Destructive chewing often signals boredom, anxiety, or teething that needs your attention.
- Dog-proofing your home and offering mental stimulation can prevent chewing problems and protect your stuff.
Understanding Dachshund Chewing Behavior
Dachshunds have strong chewing instincts from their hunting background. If you know what triggers your doxie to chew, you can get ahead of any problems.
Why Dachshunds Chew
Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers and burrowing animals, so they needed strong jaws and determined digging skills. That hunting heritage explains why your dachshund loves to chew and dig.
Chewing helps relieve teething pain in puppies as their adult teeth come in. For adults, it keeps their teeth clean and jaws strong.
Chewing also gives mental stimulation and can ease boredom or anxiety. Sometimes, your dachshund just wants to explore with their mouth—dogs learn about objects by mouthing them, a bit like how humans use their hands.
Common Triggers for Chewing in Doxies
Lots of things can spark chewing behavior in your dachshund:
Boredom – Dachshunds are smart and energetic. If they don’t get enough to do, they’ll chew for fun.
Anxiety and stress – Changes in routine, being left alone, or other stress can lead to anxious chewing.
Teething discomfort – Puppies between 3-7 months chew more because it helps with teething pain.
Attention-seeking – Sometimes your doxie notices that chewing gets your attention, even if it’s negative.
Hunger – Dogs might chew non-food items if they’re hungry or missing something in their diet.
When Chewing Becomes a Problem
Chewing becomes a real issue when your dachshund keeps going after things like furniture, shoes, or cords. This can wreck your stuff and even be dangerous.
If your dachshund chews destructively only when you’re away, separation anxiety might be the cause. Watch for warning signs:
- Chewing that suddenly increases
- Obsessively chewing one type of item
- Destructive chewing plus other behavior changes
- Swallowing non-food items (which can block their intestines)
If your dachshund hurts their mouth or swallows something dangerous, call your vet right away. Sometimes, excessive chewing also points to dental problems or pain that needs a professional look.
Natural vs. Problem Chewing in Dachshunds
Dachshunds, like all dogs, have a natural urge to chew. But there’s a line between normal chewing and problem chewing that needs fixing.
Developmental Chewing in Puppies
Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Between 3-6 months, teething makes them chew even more, and that’s totally normal.
Your puppy isn’t trying to be bad—they’re just learning. Offer a mix of chew toys with different textures to help them out.
If your puppy chews one spot over and over, it might mean they’re in pain. Normal puppy chewing usually drops off after their baby teeth are gone.
When you catch your puppy chewing something off-limits, calmly swap it for a toy. Punishing them just makes things worse and can make them anxious.
Adult Dachshund Chewing Habits
Grown-up dachshunds still chew, but not as much as puppies. Healthy adult chewing happens now and then, usually with toys or treats.
Here are some warning signs of problem chewing:
- Chewing suddenly increases
- Destructive chewing when alone
- Chewing that causes injury
- Chewing focused on furniture corners or walls
These can point to separation anxiety, boredom, or dental issues. Adult dachshunds need mental stimulation to keep boredom chewing at bay.
Give them 15-20 minutes of play every day and swap out chew toys each week to keep things interesting. If your adult dachshund suddenly becomes a chewing machine, check with your vet to rule out dental pain or other problems.
Consequences of Unmanaged Chewing
If you let chewing go unchecked, your dachshund can cause big problems at home and for their own health. The fallout ranges from expensive property damage to emergency vet visits.
Damage to Furniture and Belongings
Dachshunds may be small, but their jaws are strong. If they chew too much, your furniture, shoes, and valuables can end up destroyed.
Wooden furniture legs might end up full of teeth marks or even gnawed through. Chewed electronic cables aren’t just annoying—they’re dangerous.
The costs add up fast. One bad chewing spree can ruin:
- Shoes ($50-$200)
- Furniture ($100-$1000+)
- Electronics and cables ($20-$500)
- Important papers or sentimental things (sometimes impossible to replace)
Constantly cleaning up and replacing things gets stressful. It can even put a strain on your relationship with your dog—no one wants to feel annoyed with their own pet.
Potential Health Risks to Dachshunds
Uncontrolled chewing can put your dachshund at risk for several health issues. Some of these dangers are pretty serious.
If your dachshund swallows something, it could cause a blockage and require emergency surgery. With their long, narrow bodies, dachshunds are especially at risk. Symptoms include vomiting, tiredness, or not wanting to eat.
Chewing hard things can break teeth, which is painful and might mean extractions. That makes eating tough for them.
Some chewed items are toxic. They might contain:
- Chemicals from furniture finishes
- Poisonous houseplants
- Other harmful household products
Splinters from chewed materials can cut your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract. That can lead to infections or internal bleeding if you don’t catch it quickly.
Identifying the Causes of Your Dachshund’s Chewing
Dachshunds chew for specific reasons. If you watch their patterns, you can often figure out the cause—and fix it instead of just reacting.
Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Dachshunds are clever and need both mental and physical exercise. Without enough to do, they start chewing to use up their energy.
Signs your dachshund chews out of boredom:
- More destruction on days with less activity
- Chewing mostly when alone and bored
- Increased interest in toys after exercise
These dogs were bred to be busy. If they don’t get at least 30-60 minutes of exercise each day, they’ll find their own fun—often by chewing.
Try keeping track of your dog’s chewing versus their activity. You’ll probably see less chewing on days with good walks or playtime.
Separation Anxiety and Stress
Dachshunds bond deeply with their owners and can get anxious when left alone. That stress often shows up as destructive chewing.
Look for these clues:
- Chewing mostly when you’re gone
- Destruction near doors or windows
- Other anxiety signs like barking, pacing, or accidents
Stressful events like thunderstorms, fireworks, or changes at home can also trigger chewing. Dachshunds often go for things that smell like you—shoes, clothes—because it comforts them.
Keep a record of when chewing happens. If it’s always when you’re out, separation anxiety is probably the root cause, not just boredom.
How to Stop Destructive Chewing in Dachshunds
Dachshunds often chew to beat boredom or anxiety. To manage this, you’ll need to train them consistently and make sure they have good outlets for their chewing instincts.
Preventing Doxie Chewing Furniture
Start by “dachshund-proofing” your home. Move anything valuable out of reach and spray furniture edges with bitter apple spray. That stuff tastes awful to dogs and usually keeps them away.
Give your dachshund daily exercise. Tired pups just don’t have the energy to chew up your furniture out of boredom.
Try crate training if you can’t supervise. Pick a crate that’s big enough for them to stand, turn, and stretch out.
Crates keep your dachshund from chewing when you’re busy and help them feel safe in their own little den.
Keep their mind busy with puzzle toys that make them think. Mental stimulation goes a long way in curbing the urge to chew on things they shouldn’t.
Redirecting Chewing to Approved Items
Pick chew toys that suit your dachshund’s style. Some love soft plushies, others need tough rubber toys.
Best Chew Toys for Dachshunds:
- Rubber toys (Kong, Nylabone)
- Rope toys for tugging
- Dental chews for teeth cleaning
- Puzzle toys that give out treats
If you catch your dachshund chewing something off-limits, say “no” firmly but not harshly. Hand them an acceptable toy right away so they learn what’s okay to chew.
Switch up their toys every week or so. Dogs get bored with the same old stuff, but a “new” toy can get them excited again.
Positive Reinforcement and Training Techniques
Reward-based training works wonders. If you spot your dachshund chewing on the right toy, shower them with praise and a treat now and then.
Teach a command like “leave it” to interrupt bad chewing. Start with easy items and work up to things that are more tempting.
Training Schedule:
- Practice “leave it” for about 5 minutes a day
- Give rewards as soon as they pick the right toy
- Stay consistent with corrections for unwanted chewing
Skip the punishment—it just makes dogs anxious and can make chewing worse. Focus on rewarding the good stuff instead.
Clicker training can help. It marks the exact moment your dog does what you want, making the connection between chewing right and getting a reward extra clear.
Choosing the Best Chew Toys for Dachshunds
Picking the right chew toys is huge for your dachshund’s dental health and to channel their urge to chew. Good toys keep your dog happy and help save your stuff from getting destroyed.
Features of Safe and Durable Chew Toys
Find toys made from non-toxic materials that won’t splinter or break into little bits. Rubber toys like Kongs are tough and can handle a determined chewer.
Size is important. Choose toys small enough for dachshunds to grab, but not so tiny they might swallow them. Nobody wants a choking scare.
Texture matters too. Toys with ridges or nubs clean teeth and feel satisfying to chew. Some even massage gums and help scrape off plaque.
Steer clear of toys with small parts that could come off and get swallowed. Check toys often for damage and toss them if they start breaking down.
Recommended Chew Toys for Dachshunds
Top choices for Dachshunds include:
- Rubber toys – Kong Classic or Kong Extreme for strong chewers
- Dental chews – Nylabone DuraChew or Greenies (pick the right size)
- Rope toys – Great for teeth, but supervise playtime
Interactive toys like treat dispensers are awesome for mental stimulation and chewing fun. The Kong Wobbler or IQ Treat Ball can keep a dachshund busy for ages.
For teething puppies, try toys you can freeze. Even a frozen wet washcloth can help soothe their sore gums.
Rotate toys every week or so. Having four or five different kinds keeps things interesting and helps toys last longer.
Supervise play, especially with heavy chewers. Your presence keeps things safe while your dachshund enjoys their favorite toys.
Creating a Chew-Proof Home Environment
Protecting your home from dachshund chewing takes a little prep and a lot of consistency. With a few tweaks, you can make your space safer for both your dog and your stuff.
Dachshund-Proofing Your Living Space
Put tempting things out of reach. Shoes, kids’ toys, remote controls—they all belong in cabinets or on high shelves.
Cover electrical cords with protectors or tuck them behind furniture. Those cords look way too chewable to a curious pup.
Spray bitter apple on furniture legs and baseboards. It tastes nasty to dogs but won’t hurt your furniture.
Use baby gates to block off rooms with stuff you want to protect. Especially handy when you can’t watch your dachshund every minute.
Scatter safe chew toys in every room. Rotate them often to keep your dog interested and out of trouble.
Stay organized. Even tiny things like coins or paper clips can turn dangerous if your dachshund decides to chew them.
Supervision and Safe Confinement
Keep an eye on your dachshund during free time, especially if they’re still a puppy. If you see them eyeing something they shouldn’t chew, redirect them right away.
Use a crate when you can’t supervise. Make it cozy with bedding and toys, and make sure it’s roomy enough for comfort.
Exercise pens give your dog more space than a crate but still keep them contained. They’re great for open areas in your home.
Set up a dog-safe room for longer absences. Kitchens with tile floors usually work well since they’re easy to clean and have fewer chewable hazards.
Don’t use confinement as punishment. Your dachshund should see their safe space as a good thing, not a time-out zone.
Managing Ongoing Chewing Issues
Some dachshunds just won’t quit chewing, no matter what you try. In those cases, you might need to step up your management game or call in a pro.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your dachshund keeps chewing despite all your efforts, it might be time for expert advice. Here are some red flags:
Signs you need a professional:
- Chewing that causes more than $100 in property damage
- Self-harm, like chewing on their own paws or tail
- Growling or snapping when you remove things from their mouth
- Chewing that looks compulsive or is driven by anxiety
Reach out to a certified dog behaviorist or your vet if your dachshund swallows dangerous stuff. They can suggest specialized training and might recommend:
- Behavior modification programs
- Anti-anxiety meds if stress is behind the chewing
- Advanced training tailored to your dog’s needs
Professional trainers can spot triggers you might miss. Many offer home visits or group classes focused on stopping destructive behaviors.
Maintaining Healthy Chewing Behavior
Keeping your dachshund’s chewing habits in check takes a mix of exercise and good dental care. Both satisfy their instincts and help keep your home intact.
Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Dachshunds need daily exercise to burn off energy. Shoot for at least 30 to 45 minutes a day, split into shorter walks or play sessions if that’s easier.
Walking isn’t your only option. Try these activities too:
- Hide-and-seek with toys or treats
- Fetch in a fenced yard
- Puzzle toys that dispense food
- Training sessions with new tricks
Keep their mind busy. Rotate toys every week and use puzzle feeders so they have to work for their meals.
A tired dachshund is way less likely to chew up your stuff. Regular play breaks up the day and keeps boredom at bay.
Routine Dental Care for Dachshunds
Dachshunds can have dental problems, so start brushing their teeth young. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs.
Daily dental care should include:
- Brushing with dog toothpaste
- Offering dental chews or toys
- Checking for gum issues
Watch for these dental warning signs:
- Bad breath
- Red or bleeding gums
- Trouble eating
- Lots of drooling
Schedule a professional cleaning with your vet every year. Vets can remove tartar that brushing can’t handle and check for breed-specific issues, like overcrowded teeth.
Dental-friendly chew toys do double duty—they satisfy chewing urges and help clean teeth. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal when you shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dachshund owners run into plenty of chewing challenges. These questions cover training, age-related chewing, and how to manage this sometimes frustrating habit.
What are effective methods to discourage chewing behavior in dachshunds?
Give your dachshund lots of chew toys made for dogs. Rotate them often so your pup doesn’t lose interest.
Spray things your dachshund likes to chew with a bitter-tasting deterrent. It won’t hurt your pet, but it sure makes things less appealing.
Whenever you catch them chewing something off-limits, swap it for an approved toy and praise them when they use it. Timing is everything here.
Stick to a regular exercise routine. A tired dachshund is way less likely to chew out of boredom or pent-up energy.
Why do dachshunds engage in destructive chewing, and how can it be managed?
Dachshunds chew a lot as puppies, mostly to ease teething discomfort. Tossing them a frozen chew toy can really help soothe those sore gums.
Boredom or anxiety often triggers destructive chewing. Try puzzle toys or regular playtime to keep their minds busy.
Some dachshunds chew just to get your attention. If that happens, keep calm and avoid making a big deal out of it.
Set up a dog-proof area when you can’t keep an eye on them. That way, they don’t get the chance to chew on things they shouldn’t.
How can you train a mini dachshund to stop chewing on inappropriate items?
Work on the “leave it” command during your training sessions. Begin with treats, teaching your dachshund to ignore things on cue.
When your dachshund picks the right toy, reward them. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with these little guys.
Punishing them after the fact doesn’t work. Dachshunds just don’t make the connection between old chewing and new discipline.
Clicker training can help mark the exact moment your pup makes a good choice about what to chew. It’s a handy tool if you’re up for it.
At what age do dachshunds typically outgrow their chewing phase, if at all?
Chewing peaks between 3-6 months when they’re teething. Usually, things calm down after about 8 or 9 months.
Some adult dachshunds still chew, though. If you skip training, that habit might just stick around for life.
By the time they’re 1 or 2 years old, most dachshunds settle into more mature chewing habits. But honestly, every dog is a bit different.
What strategies can prevent a dachshund from chewing objects while left alone?
Set up a safe space with a crate or pet gate before you leave. This keeps your dachshund out of trouble and helps them feel secure.
Take your dachshund for a solid 20-30 minute walk before heading out. Burning off some energy can really help curb destructive chewing.
Leave a mix of chew toys with different textures and challenges for them to explore. Stuff a Kong with frozen treats for extra-long entertainment.
Automated treat dispensers or puzzle toys can keep your dachshund busy while you’re gone. It might not solve everything, but it sure helps.
What are the recommended ways to discipline a dachshund that bites or chews excessively?
Focus on interruption, not punishment. Try a sharp “no” or a quick clap to snap your dachshund out of chewing something they shouldn’t.
Right after you interrupt them, hand over an appropriate toy. This way, your dachshund starts to figure out what’s okay to chew.
If your dachshund starts mouthing or nipping during play, pause and step back for a moment. Taking away your attention shows them that gentle play keeps the fun going, but rough behavior? Nope, that stops everything.
Skip physical punishment altogether. It only ruins trust and can actually make your dachshund fearful or even aggressive—definitely not worth it.
