Doxies are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be imaginative and tough.That assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.You need to be the top dog.

Each dog will deviate in degree, of course.  There are submissive Doxies though fewer than other breeds, on average.Some will try to persist on having their own way at all times, much like most terriers.But training can reform their demeanor, especially if you start when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward you, a family member, or strange people and animals.Gnawing the lead during training is one mild manifestation.

Discourage it by stepping on the lead close to the dog's head.Then with the other foot, slowly pull the lead down to the ground closer and closer to the collar.Take care not to stress their neck, as they are prone to spinal problems.  When they have released the leash, praise them lavishly.

To discourage excess barking or snapping or biting a squirt bottle comes in handy.  When your dog shows this behavior, give him a little squirt against the muzzle.  Avoid the eyes.  That startles your dog and it is unpleasant besides.Repeat, if needed, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a competitor.Being consistently firm is favored to counter-aggression.

If your Doxie persists, seperate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will sometimes try to shout or whine its way out of punishment.Assign your dog rugged chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he's in the "time out" box.

Follow the negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.  Look for instances of good behavior and praise it lavishly.Use a modest number of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different end result of its own course of action in terms of your response.Doxies are clever.  With persistence, they will catch on.

For instance, one may become assertive during fetch by refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between genuine willfulness and a mere desire to play a different game, tug.  Make the difference clear by using a rope for tug, which they love.

It is necessary to tread a fine line, though, because tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or tranquil dog will help.  Aggression is partly caused by the frustration of pent-up energy with no positive outlet.

A friend can be a big help here.Heave the ball to a friend several feet away, along the ground.When the Dachshund gives chase, make sure the partner is the first to get the ball.Repeat the exercise a few times, then let your Dachshund win.

With patience and a little creativity, you can channel your Dachshund's aggression into more positive directions.

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