Mini Dachshund

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: March 31st, 2023

About Mini Dachshund

Weight

under 11 lbs

Lifespan

12-15 years

Group

AKC Hound

Best Suited For

Solo owners, families with children, apartment dwellers, active seniors

Temperament

Affectionate, playful, intelligent, stubborn

Comparable Breeds

Miniature Pinscher, Chiweenie, Chihuahua

Height

5-6 inches

Mini Dachshund Basics

Mini Dachshund is taking the world by storm – and having in mind the breed’s many qualities, it’s only to be expected. The Dachshund is one of the most recognizable and loved dog breeds in the world and the same is true for their miniature version. Yup, you heard it right – lovingly called the “sausage dog”, these small puppers can be even smaller! The Mini Dachshund is selectively bred to be smaller in size, but they are actually the same as a regular dachshund – only tinier and cuter. Of course, it’s not all about the looks with these petite charmers. The Mini Dachshund is a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that will win you over in an instant.

Anyone who is looking for a family pet that is loyal, affectionate, goofy, and smart, cannot go wrong with a Mini Dachshund. They have such a wealth of character and having them around can really brighten your day. However, they will require your attention and affection, so make sure you can provide both in ample amounts. Let’s learn more about the wonderful Mini Dachshund before you adopt one.

Origin

The Dachshund is one of Germany’s most popular and recognizable dog breeds. Yet even so, their exact origins are not known for certain. The earliest mentions of the breed date to the early 18th century, when the earliest descriptions of the Dachshund were made. Initially, the breed was not so short and had normal-sized legs. But over time, as its role as a hunting dog evolved, the legs became much shorter due to selective breeding. This meant that the Mini Dachshund could easily slip into badger burrows, cornering the prey during the hunt.

Over time, the breed became loved as a pet as well. When not trained for hunting, the Mini Dachshund proved to be the loveliest lap dog with an affectionate, sweet nature. The breed’s unique appearance became a symbol of Germany, and it is seen as somewhat of a national mascot of that nation – but in no time the breed spread around the globe. Today, the Dachshund is one of the most popular dog breeds in all sizes, miniature included. And its future is looking as bright as ever!

Pedigree

As an old and respected dog breed, with a clearly defined breed standard and hundreds of high-quality breeders across the globe, the Mini Dachshund boasts a top-notch pedigree. Depending on the breeder, a miniature Dachshund can have a lengthy family history, and you can learn a lot about its ancestry. Of course, if a detailed pedigree is not an important factor for you, there’s always the option of adopting a Mini Dachshund and giving a pooch without a home a second chance. You’ll get a loyal friend and you’ll save a life in the process!

Food/Diet

The Mini Dachshund will require a diet specifically formulated for its size and activity levels, with balanced nutrients and made from wholesome ingredients. Kibble that is high in protein, and enriched with vitamins and minerals should be the staple of their diet. Go for formulas that list real meat as the first ingredient on the list, followed by other natural ingredients that are also sources of complex carbs and healthy fats. Of course, in addition to the food’s quality, you will need to pay attention to quantity as well. Portions will have to be perfectly measured according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Feed them too much and too often, and you risk obesity. For a Mini Dachshund, this can be a big issue, especially as it places a lot of pressure on their joints.

Naturally, if you are ever in doubt about the diet your pet needs, do not hesitate to get in touch with a vet. After a thorough exam, they can give you tailored advice on the type of diet your Mini Dachshund requires. That way, you can rest assured that your four-legged best friend is getting the best nutrition you could possibly offer.

Training

A traditional hunting companion, the Mini Dachshund is such a smart doggo – and a quick learner to boot. The Miniature version of the Dachshund was originally bred for the purpose of rabbit hunting, and they had to figure out things fast in order to excel at their job. Still, they do have a bit of a stubborn streak, being so tiny and all, so training can sometimes be a power struggle if you’re inexperienced. But if you start training early on and remember to adopt that alpha attitude, you’ll have no problem showing your Mini Dachshund who is the “hunt leader”. Add to that a few tasty treats and positive reinforcement, and training should be a breeze. You should never use harsh language and punishments – the Dachshund can quickly shut down and refuse to learn.

Weight

The Mini Dachshund – just as its name suggests – is a small breed of dog. They will weigh around 11 lbs on average, and grow to a height of just 5 to 6 inches. These are tiny guys!

Temperament/Behavior

If you want a tiny pet dog that boasts an incredible wealth of character, the Mini Dachshund will not disappoint. These tiny doggos have so much to offer to every type of owner, and will never fail to surprise you with new aspects of their personality. They are fun and goofy and will bring a smile to your face each day. They are also energetic and love to play, so they make a perfect match for families with children. And best of all, they can also be relaxed and affectionate, forming deep bonds with their owner(s), and showing a fierce and protective side when faced with strangers on their territory. Needless to say, these tiny cuties make great family pets, dogs for solo owners, and even seniors.

Even though endlessly charming, the Mini Dachshund can show a bit of a stubborn side at times, as is common with tiny dogs with big personalities. You should not be surprised to spot freshly dug holes in your yard: the inherent natural hunting instincts of the Dachshund can sometimes float up to the surface. These dogs have an incredibly strong sense of smell (they can pick up a scent that is more than a week old) and if they get a whiff of some critter deep down in the ground, they won’t hesitate to do some digging with their forepaws. Still, all this is a small price to pay for such a wonderful and goofy four-legged friend with whom you can create a ton of lasting and wonderful memories.

Common Health Problems

In general terms, the Miniature Dachshund is a healthy and sturdy breed. Even though they are quite small, they are surprisingly resilient throughout their lives. Of course, no dog is impervious to some health issues throughout their life. The Mini Dachshund can suffer from ear infections and disc and back problems. The former often happens to dogs with large floppy ears like Dachshund’s. To keep this issue at bay you will need to regularly clean their ears and make sure that you visit the vet regularly.

On the other hand, back issues are a known issue of all Dachshunds, due to their long spinal column and short ribcage. Intervertebral disk disease is one health hazard that happens to up to 25% of Dachshunds, especially if they had been handled roughly, or are obese. The disease is, however, treatable, and can be prevented with appropriate care. Other possible hereditary issues that occur less frequently are epilepsy, dental problems, allergies, and thyroid problems.

Life Expectancy

The Mini Dachshund has an average life expectancy ranging between 12 and 15 years. Quite a considerable number, since the average maximum lifespan for most dogs is 15 years!

Exercise Requirements

The Mini Dachshund is a tiny ball of energy. They just aren't satisfied with snoozing and relaxing all day – they want to have fun! Naturally active and inquisitive, they will need a reasonable amount of daily exercise. Plan at least one hour of walking per day, and some playtime in-between. Whether you’ll go out to the park for a game of fetch, play tug of war with your pet, or give them an interactive toy to play with – the choice is yours. Just make sure that they are not cooped up all the time, as that can lead to a variety of behavioral issues, like apathy, anxiety, aggression, and loss of appetite.

Luckily, due to their diminutive size, the Mini Dachshund can thrive in a variety of homes. From tiny houses and smaller apartments, all the way to spacious homes with a backyard – this breed will fit right in. This means that even owners with limited living space can enjoy the company of this wonderful breed. Just make sure that their exercise requirements are always met. If your schedule is too full for daily walks and playtime, then a lazier breed might be better suited for you.

AKC

Thanks to its long and well-preserved heritage, and due to its popularity, it is no wonder that the Miniature Dachshund (just like its standard-sized version) is accepted and registered with many leading global dog breed registries. One of these is the American Kennel Club (AKC) which says that “the word “icon” is terribly overworked, but the Dachshund with his unmistakable long-backed body, little legs, and big personality is truly an icon of purebred dogdom.”

Coat

The Mini Dachshund can have a smooth and short coat or a shaggy and wiry one. Depending on the type, grooming, and care will naturally be entirely different. The short-haired Dachshund is simple to care for ––regular light brushing should be done throughout the week in order to keep their coat tidy and soft. During the shedding season there might be a few extra loose hairs, so keep up the pace with grooming. Avoid excess baths as short-haired dogs can suffer from irritation and skin infections if their skin dries out due to over-bathing.

The long-haired Dachshund will require a bit more work. Make a steady weekly routine of daily brushing and combing, and visit the groomer’s salon at least once per month. A bit of trimming will keep their coat neat and healthy. Of course, shedding will be greater in the season, so be prepared for those loose hairs around the house. Other than this, you will quickly learn that coat care for a Mini Dachshund is not all that complex, no matter the coat type.

Puppies

The puppy stage is when you lay down the foundations for the upbringing of a happy, well-behaved dog. If you want your Mini Dachshund puppy to grow up into a friendly pooch with a lovely personality, you will have to get to work almost immediately. First things first, however, since in the first few days and weeks a puppy will require your constant care and protection. When they are still puppies, Mini Dachshunds are very cute but very fragile. You will have to shelter them from eager hands and large crowds. This could stress them out and cause trauma later on. But, as soon as the fragile period is over, you should start socialization. And that means that you will have to introduce the puppies to friendly strangers and dogs, other pets if you have them, and children that are old enough to play safely with them. When socialized on time, your dog will grow up to be friendly and easygoing in all kinds of scenarios.

Keep in mind that without socialization you risk a number of behavioral issues in your pet’s adulthood. Issues such as nippiness, resource guarding, lashing out, anxiety, aloofness, and depression can all emerge as a consequence of improper socialization early on. Likewise, basic training should be started as early as possible. Young dogs soak up all that information with ease, so use the period to your advantage and teach your pet where to go potty, how to walk on a leash, and other essentials.

Photo credit: Tori555/Shutterstock, Shedara Weinsberg/Shutterstock, James Player/Shutterstock

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects humans and can be manifested in a variety of ways, most of which are related to challenges with social skills, communication, and interaction with the world itself. While the many sides of the autism spectrum are well understood and documented, there’s a lot that remains a mystery, such as the question if autism is specific to humans – or more precisely: can a dog be autistic?Canine autism is still not officially recognized in veterinary medicine in the same way it is in humans, however, there are some behaviors in dogs that can resemble traits associated with autism in humans, leading some pet owners and veterinarians to use the term "autistic" in order to describe them more specifically. Here is all that you need to know about this complex topic.Can a Dog Be Autistic?Some dogs may exhibit behaviors that are similar to those seen in autistic individuals. For example, some dogs may exhibit repetitive behaviors. This might include excessive licking, tail chasing, pawing, or pacing. In fact, they get so repetitive that it quickly becomes abnormal. Besides all this, some “autistic” dogs can have difficulties with social interactions. In these cases, they might be less responsive to social cues, avoid eye contact, or prefer being alone. Similarly, some dogs can have overwhelming sensitivity to various stimuli. This means that certain dogs might be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch – things that seem ordinary in most cases. These behaviors could be due to various factors, including genetic predispositions, developmental issues, or environmental influences. Some dogs may also be affected by canine-compulsive disorder (CCD). Similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans, dogs with CCD engage in repetitive behaviors that are difficult to interrupt. This can contribute to autistic behaviors. The same goes for dogs with sensory processing disorders. In such cases, they might have abnormal sensory processing, making them overly reactive or unresponsive to certain stimuli. Ultimately, though not well-defined, certain neurodevelopmental issues could lead to behaviors reminiscent of autism. Either way, in the case that your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. Working with a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist can help you address problematic behaviors and deal with them efficiently. After all, autistic dogs can be as happy and normal as all other pets. Providing mental and physical stimulation through toys,  puzzles, and regular exercise is very important, however, as it ensures that they remain happy and active. 

Why Do My Betta Fish’s Fins Look Ripped?

Have you noticed a ragged or torn fin on your betta fish? Don’t panic! Ripped fins often look bad, but they are a common struggle betta fish keepers face.This guide will explore the potential causes of betta fin damage, from environmental stress to rough tank mates. I’ll also share treatment options to help your betta look and feel great again and preventative measures to reduce the risk of future problems.Why Do My Betta Fish’s Fins Look Torn?There are several reasons you may notice damage to a betta fish’s fins, all of which require your prompt attention. An actual tear, split, or bite is the result of a physical injury. However, one other condition is often confused with a tear – fin rot.This condition results from poor water quality and excess stress levels, weakening the fish’s immune system. It’s commonly seen in bettas that are adopted from a pet store setting due to the small containers they are kept in and the overstimulating environment. The most significant visual difference between fin rot and a torn fin is the presence of black, brown, red, or white edges to the fin. You may also see small fuzzy growths or white spots on the fin.If you suspect your fish is suffering from fin rot, you will need to act quickly, as the condition becomes more difficult to treat the more it progresses. This includes quarantining the fish if they are in a community tank, cleaning the tank to prevent further problems, careful maintenance of the hospital tank, and the use of medication for more severe cases.4 Common Causes of Torn FinsFin damage or tears result from physical damage. However, this damage could have occurred from several different causes. The first step in helping your betta recover is to identify what happened. Here are a few of the most common causes of torn fins in betta fish:Tank DecorationsTake a moment to look at the decorations in your betta’s tank or aquarium. Run your fingers along the edge and feel for sharp or rough surfaces. Items like fake plants, decorative sculptures, rocks, and driftwood can snag your fish’s delicate fins as they brush against it while swimming past. Additionally, other tank features like heaters and thermometers may develop sharp edges if they are older and have suffered some wear and tear.Rough Tank MatesBettas are commonly known as aggressors but aren’t the only fish species that can get rough with others. Occasionally, even species known to be gentle community fish can bully others in the same aquarium. In these situations, the damage results from the aggressor biting your betta’s fins.There are several reasons why your fish may become aggressive towards one another, including:Poor water conditions causing stressLack of space for the number of fishFood availabilityTerritorial behaviorsIllness or diseaseThe behavior may also result from pairing your betta fish with incompatible tank mates. Not all fish species can live together peacefully.Improper Water ConditionsBetta fish can become stressed quickly from changes to their water conditions, lowering their immune systems and putting them at risk of damage to their fins. This is the result of stress caused by their environment. Check the conditions of your aquarium, including lighting, temperature, and pH balance.Something as simple as allowing the water temperature to drop too low can trigger damaging behaviors. When experiencing cold temperatures, for example, betta fish will often try to burrow into the aquarium gravel as a survival mechanism. The gravel can easily damage their fins during this process.BoredomWe have all seen the small, decorative fish tanks often marketed to betta fish. While these can be found on the shelves of almost every big box pet store, they aren’t suitable for proper betta fish care. If this is the first time you are hearing this, don’t blame yourself – there is a lack of education in the pet space relating to a betta’s needs. You purchased a product marketed specifically for betta fish, which is a well-meaning decision.Unfortunately, these little tanks lack the space needed for your betta to swim around comfortably, leading to boredom and increased stress. As your betta struggles with this feeling of boredom, they may start to bite and damage their fins.Will Torn Betta Fins Grow Back?Yes! If your betta’s fin damage is the result of a tear or bite (not fin rot), it can heal. But first, you will need to identify the cause of the damage and make changes to the aquarium to prevent it from happening again.

Handsome Rescue Cat Hamlet Runs His Own Hotel

Move over, Fido! Who needs a guard dog when you have a feline overseeing the place? At least, that’s how the owners and employees of New York City’s Algonquin Hotel seem to believe…Since the 1930s, the hotel lobby has been carefully supervised by a one-of-a-kind employee. But don’t let his small size fool you – the Algonquin Cat, as they are lovingly called, is an important fixture of the hotel with a long history that most are unaware of.The tradition began when the hotel’s owner, Frank Case, welcomed a stray orange tabby cat named Billy into the hotel. It wasn’t long before Billy could be seen walking the hotel’s elegant halls with his head (and tail) held high. Before long, he was renamed Hamlet (a more literary name suitable for a cat with such big responsibilities), and a legend was born.Since that day, the hotel has never been without a feline greeter. All boy cats that serve in this role are orange tabbies named Hamlet while all girl cats are ragdolls named Matilda. The best part? In honor of the first Hamlet’s origin story, all the hotel’s resident cats are rescues.Today, Hamlet the 8th continues to rule the hotel lobby, an incredible step up from the feral cat colony he once called home.When he’s not working, Hamlet is pampered with daily brushing, fashion show benefits, birthday parties, and other perks. Plus, of course, the steady stream of attention that he receives from the many cat lovers who come to see the hardworking kitty.Just a couple of years ago, the hotel underwent a refresh. The oldest continuously operating hotel in the city was starting to look a little worn. In addition to focusing on maintaining the historic architecture and feel of the hotel, the redesign also focused on finding new ways to accommodate Hamlet VIII and the many cats that will follow in his paw prints.A small cat house was installed by the reception desk. “The idea is, hopefully, he likes it in there so the guests can see him when they first walk in, but he also feels safe,” explained Sara Duffy, a principal at the architecture and interior design firm Stonehill Taylor who carried out the hotel’s refresh.The cat-friendly accommodations didn’t end there. A bookshelf in the hotel’s lounge features cat-friendly nooks and ladders, allowing him to easily move around the room while visiting with various guests. A daybed by the window creates the perfect place for Hamlet VIII to relax and soak up the sun’s rays.“He likes to be up high and look down, to observe but not be pet all the time. But sometimes he likes to come down and participate,” said Duffy when asked about the lounge’s design features.If you’re interested in visiting Hamlet VIII while in New York, the Algonquin Hotel is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues at 59 West 44th Street. Or you can read more about these legendary cats in the book Matilda, the Algonquin Cat.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?

When the celebrations begin and the fireworks are brought out, they can become a source of anxiety and fear for many dogs, and it is not uncommon for them to run away in panic. If your pet happens to run away because of fireworks, it can be a distressing experience for sure – both for you and them – but it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and take action to find them as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know in order to locate your pet quickly and to prevent any future escapes.What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?Fireworks are a big part of festivities such as Fourth of July, New Years Eve, and even smaller celebrations, such as people’s weddings and birthdays. Often, you cannot prevent this, as fireworks can be released by neighbors or at the town square. And even if you are near your pooch, one moment can be enough for them to bolt off. Here is what to do if that happens:#1 Stay calm:First of all, it is essential to stay calm and composed. Keep a level head, as panicking won’t help you think clearly or act effectively. Take a few deep breaths and start your search methodically.#2 Check your home and immediate surroundings:Dogs often don’t go far at first. Thoroughly search your home, yard, and nearby areas. Look under porches, in bushes, and any hiding spots they might find comforting. #3 Call and listen:Walk around the neighborhood calling your dog’s name. Pause and listen for any sounds of movement or barking in response. Sometimes, a frightened doggo may be nearby but too scared to come out immediately.#4 Use a familiar scent:Leave out your dog’s bedding, favorite toys, and some pieces of your clothing. The familiar smells can lure them back home. Placing their food and water outside can also help. Remember that dogs have super powerful noses and will pick up scents with ease. To help broaden your search, you can also inform your neighbors about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and your contact information. Neighbors can keep an eye out and may have already seen your pet. Similarly, you can post about your missing dog on local social media groups, such as Facebook community pages, Nextdoor, and other neighborhood forums. Include a clear photo, a description, and your contact details. The more people are aware, the better the chances of finding your dog. If enough time passes, you can also visit the nearby animal shelters, rescue organizations, and vet clinics. Bring a recent photo of your dog with you or easier identification. Leave your contact information and check back regularly.Another great idea is to make flyers with a clear photo of your pooch, a fitting description, and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighborhood, in local businesses, and public areas. This traditional method can still be very effective.Preventing Your Pet Runs Away Or Gets Lost Due to FireworksOnce you find your pet it is important to take steps to prevent this from ever happening again. Here are some basic steps to take:#1 Secure your home and your yard: Ensure that your house and yard are secure. Check for any weak spots in the fence, or find areas where your pet could escape. #2 Microchip:Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the information is up-to-date. In addition to a microchip, your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

Can You Use Dog Flea Products on Cats?

Final Thoughts – Safe Flea Prevention for CatsWhile flea prevention is an important step to keep your cat safe and healthy, you must ensure that the products you are purchasing are made for use on cats. Many dog flea prevention products include highly toxic chemicals to cats, making them potentially life-threatening.If you suspect you have recently used the wrong flea treatment on your cat, wash the area immediately with soap and water to remove as much of the product as possible. Call your vet for an immediate emergency appointment or make your way to the nearest emergency clinic. These products can be lethal, and time is of the essence.For those concerned about the risks of fleas and flea-transmitted diseases, highly effective products are available that are safe for your kitty. When shopping, read the packaging carefully to ensure it says it is made for use on cats. If you are still unsure, ask your veterinarian for recommendations.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Veterinarians Warn About Rise in Deadly Parvo Cases

As loving pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our pets safe. From buying the best food we can afford to keeping their vaccinations up to date – we understand that our furry family members rely on us to care for them. Unfortunately, some illnesses make this more challenging. One example is the risk of deadly canine parvovirus (also known as parvo) in puppies. While there is a vaccine to protect dogs from the disease, there is a window of time before your puppy has received the complete series of vaccinations needed to be effective. It is highly contagious and spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, further increasing the risk during the curious stage of a puppy’s life. The disease was first discovered in 1978. It quickly spread, causing concern among veterinary professionals and dog lovers. During the pandemic, another concerning increase in cases was seen. Now, in 2024, veterinarians in several locations are sounding the alarm. In April, vets in Kansas City released a statement after The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City faced 20 cases in a week. At the same time, San Antonio Animal Care Services warned dog parents in the city that they, too, were seeing a rise in cases. Since that time, the areas of concern have continued to grow.What is Parvo? You may be wondering what parvo is and why veterinarians are so worried about the increase in cases. Canine Parvovirus is a disease that impacts a dog’s stomach and small intestines, disrupting their ability to digest food and absorb much-needed nutrients. It can also impact the lymphatic system, bone marrow, and heart. It is highly contagious and, when contracted, often severe or fatal. “Without treatment, up to 90% of animals will die,” explained Chief Veterinarian Melia Washington of The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City. “Even with treatment, we only tell people it’s a 50/50 shot.” Traditionally, treatment focuses almost entirely on supportive care, relying on the puppy’s ability to fight the virus naturally. However, in May 2023, the USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment, which experts hope will change the outcome for many dogs. What are the Warning Signs? If your puppy does contract parvo, time is of the essence. The sooner you see a veterinarian and start treatment, the better their chance of survival. Watch out for these common warning signs: Vomiting Diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea)Loss of appetite Sudden high feverLethargyDepressionYou should seek veterinary care if you notice signs that something is “off” in a young puppy, especially if it occurs before the puppy has completed all recommended puppy vaccines. Puppies are vulnerable, and a minor illness can turn life-threatening very quickly when left unaddressed. How Can You Keep Your Puppy Safe? The most important step in keeping your puppy safe from canine parvovirus is to ensure that you stick to the recommended vaccination schedule. Puppies should receive vaccines at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and the vaccine will not be fully effective until all three rounds have been administered. Socialization is crucial for puppies, but you must take extra care before they are fully vaccinated. Avoid high-risk locations like dog parks, kennels, and doggy daycares. If your puppy is being introduced to other dogs, ensure the other dog is fully vaccinated. The best way to socialize a young puppy with other dogs is to do so with dogs you know, like those owned by family and friends. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions or are unsure if a situation will be safe for your puppy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People?

Does your playful pup turn into a little velociraptor anytime they are around guests or even family members (especially children)? It’s a common struggle with herding dogs, but it doesn’t have to continue frustrating you for the rest of their lives! Herding dogs were bred with strong instincts to manage and control the movement of livestock. While that behavior is helpful when working in the fields, it can translate into unwanted nipping in everyday life. In this article, we’ll explain why herding dogs nip and, more importantly, how to train them to show their affection in a more acceptable way. What are the Personality Traits of a Herding Dog? Before focusing on this specific problem behavior, let’s take a step back and start at the beginning. What is a herding dog, and what personality traits are they most known for? Dogs classified in the Herding Group were bred specifically to gather, herd, and protect livestock. This means that they were bred with instincts that would help them perform their jobs safely and effectively. Some of the more common herding breeds include: Australian Cattle Dog Australian Shepherd Bearded Collie Belgian Malinois Border Collie Collie German Shepherd Dog Old English Sheepdog Pembroke Welsh Corgi Shetland SheepdogThese dogs are athletic and agile, allowing them to work with livestock on any terrain. They are also incredibly smart and can learn to follow even the most subtle hand movements. This means they are highly trainable but also have high exercise needs. Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People? Okay, these dogs are highly intelligent and full of energy – but how does that translate to nipping? If this is your first time living with a herding dog, you may be concerned that your dog has aggressive tendencies after seeing them nip at peoples’ ankles. You may be relieved to learn that this isn’t actually a sign of aggression. When your herding dog nips at someone’s feet or heels, they are tapping into their natural instincts. They are attempting to herd that person, just as they would with livestock in the field. Understanding this can help you view their behavior in a different light. The herding behavior is more likely to be triggered when someone mimics livestock in their eyes, running or playing around. Children are often on the receiving end for this reason, which can create a concerning situation.

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