Dachshunds are devoted companions. They follow you from room to room, supervise your showers and sleep pressed against you. That closeness is a big part of their appeal, but for some doxies it tips into real distress when they're left alone.
- Real separation anxiety happens specifically when your dog is alone.
- Build up alone time in tiny steps, and keep comings and goings low-key.
- Exercise before you leave, and give them a job and a cosy den.
- Never punish. Severe cases need your vet or a behaviourist.
Signs of separation anxiety
- Barking, howling or whining for long periods after you leave
- Chewing or scratching at doors and windows
- Toilet accidents in an otherwise house-trained dog
- Pacing, panting or drooling
- Getting anxious as you pick up keys, shoes or a coat
- Refusing food while alone
A pet camera is really useful for seeing what actually happens while you're out.
Why dachshunds are prone to it
- Strong bonds. Bred to work closely with people, they often attach deeply to one person.
- Routine changes. A return to the office after working from home is a classic trigger.
- Lack of practice. Puppies never left alone don't learn that it's normal.
- Boredom can look similar, and makes anxiety worse.
How to help, step by step
- Start tiny. Step outside for seconds and come back before your dog gets anxious. Build up very gradually. Every absence should end while they're still calm.
- Keep it low-key. A calm "see you soon" beats an emotional goodbye. Wait until they're settled before greeting them.
- Break the cues. Pick up your keys or put on your shoes, then sit on the sofa. Eventually these stop predicting departures.
- Exercise first. A good sniffy walk helps them settle. See the exercise guide.
- Give them a job. A long-lasting chew or frozen food toy, only when you leave.
- Create a safe den. A high-sided bed, a blanket to dig into and something that smells of you. Read why dachshunds burrow.
Damage and accidents are symptoms of panic, not spite. Punishment increases anxiety. If your dog is severely distressed, speak to your vet, who can rule out medical issues and recommend a qualified behaviourist or, in some cases, medication to support training.
Doxie Gang Paw Bed
Plush raised sides mimic the security of a den. Pop a worn T-shirt inside for extra comfort while you're out.
Shop the Paw BedCommon questions
How long can a dachshund be left alone?
Most adult dogs shouldn't be left for more than about four hours without a toilet break or company. Puppies need much less. A dog walker or day care can help on long days.
Will a second dog fix it?
Sometimes, but often not, because the anxiety is usually about being apart from you. Work on the anxiety first.
Does crate training help?
For dogs who love their crate, it can be a safe space. For others, confinement increases panic. Watch how your dog responds.
General guidance, not veterinary or professional behaviour advice. Cover photo by Oliver King on Pexels.
