Why Is My Dachshund Crying?

Richard Thomas
Over 15 years handling, testing, and restoring pocket, fixed-blade, and Damascus steel knives across hunting and everyday-carry disciplines.

Why Is My Dachshund Crying?

Why do different dog breeds cry, and more specifically, why is your dachshund crying? 😓

In general, dachshunds of all sizes (kaninchen, miniature, or standard) cry when they are separated from their owner because they crave your affection.

Howling, barking, and crying often happen when an owner walks away from their dachshund, as the dog feels anxious and wants to be by your side.

In reality, what dachshunds need most is comfort.

You likely want to know the best way to help them stop crying and become your happiest best friend once again.

We want to share some tips and advice to help reduce the crying of your beloved dachshund 🥰

NOTE: We are not canine health specialists. If you notice that your dog’s behavior is abnormal, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Curing Dachshunds of Separation Anxiety

Dachshunds cry to get their owner’s attention because they may suffer from separation anxiety, which can make it difficult to leave your dog at home (in an apartment) or with strangers.

Very often, dachshunds react when their owner leaves the house, and the barking begins…

If this happens, practice pretending to leave the house. Grab your keys, your bag, and act as if you are heading out.

This sends a signal to your dachshund that you are leaving, but instead of actually going, you return and sit on the couch. Repeat this action several times, then eventually leave the house for a few minutes, and gradually for longer periods.

Each time, this will remind your pup that you will return home, even after you leave.

Words of Love

By speaking to them in comforting and soothing words, you let them know they are okay, and the calm tone of your voice helps them feel less alarmed when you leave.

Avoid making a big deal out of your departure. If you let them know everything is fine, they will start to understand that it is not the end of the world when you leave the house. You will be back!

Give Them Their Favorite Toy

Another comfort method to calm their crying is to give your dog their favorite enrichment toy when you leave.

They will be excited to see the toy, which will ease the pain they feel during separation.

Enrichment toys for pets are a form of comfort that brings back good memories for your dog. While you are away, they can hold onto the toy and remember the fun times you spent playing together.

Toys are also the best distraction method: a happy dog is a dog that is having fun, and the dachshund breed LOVES to play 🥳

Ensure that the toys you buy do not contain small pieces that could detach and pose a choking hazard to your dachshund.

⚠️ Or any other toy that could hurt or cause them pain.

Dachshunds also react positively when left with something that reminds them of your presence. If they have a piece of clothing or a blanket that smells like you, it can help them feel less like they are missing you.

Your Dachshund Is Crying Due to Pain

There is a difference between a dachshund whining because they miss you and a dachshund that is actually in pain.

It is very important to pay attention to how your dachshund reacts when they move and play, and what they seem to avoid.

For example, if they whimper when they lift or put pressure on one of their paws, that is not a good sign.

It is also important to monitor your pet’s eating habits to see if they feel pain after eating, which might cause them to cry.

It can be dangerous if a dachshund is in pain and it is not addressed immediately.

The best solution is to quickly contact your local veterinarian to ask for their advice on whether you should bring your dog in or change their kibble or diet.

Continue to pay attention to your dachshund and note the times of day and moments when they start crying. Keeping an eye on them could be the key to saving their life. 🐶

Use Crying to Your Advantage

For dogs, crying is not just a form of pain or discomfort, but also a method of communicating with you.

You can start by training your dachshund to cry when they need to go outside to do their business.

Start by teaching them which door to use and practice opening it for them. 😜

Similarly, it can be useful to help them learn when to cry or bark at an intruder rather than at your friends…

Many people love dachshunds for their protective and affectionate nature. They make excellent guard dogs that often bark to let you know if someone is approaching, which can be very useful in case of unwanted visitors.

A good way to get your dachshund used to only crying or barking at strangers and not at your friends is to invite your friends over. Take the time to ensure your dachshund gets used to your loved ones, your friends, and especially those who have other dogs.

By inviting your friends and family over, your pet is more likely not to bark or cry, but rather feel comfortable around them.

Give your dachshund time to sniff and play with your loved ones. By taking your dog to the local dog park, you will also help them get familiar with other dogs, so they won’t cry or bark at other dogs as often.

What Dachshunds Do When Stressed and How to Prevent Accidents

Dachshunds cry when they are stressed, but generally not as much.

Instead, they start chewing, digging, or attacking your personal belongings.

This can be frustrating, as not only are they stressed, but you are too after seeing the destructive damage they can cause. 😜

To alleviate this stress, you can:

try a natural method with canine naturopathy
remove objects that are low enough for them to reach.

By raising curtain hems and removing all shoes or precious items from the floor, you will avoid cleaning up an unwanted mess when you return.

Similarly, by closing doors to rooms in the house, you will prevent your dog from eating your other valuables.

Loving Your Dog

Although your little dog needs plenty of love and attention from you, it is important not to give in and satisfy every whim and need.

Dachshunds may cry, but that doesn’t mean you have to make a big deal out of it every time.

They are very intelligent and stubborn dogs, so don’t get confused when they give you their adorable little face (beware of anthropomorphism).

Just like a child, they must understand that you will not always be home to comfort them (and give them their favorite treats).

For your terrier dog to feel your love, setting rules will help them overcome their anxiety.

Final Paw

By following the steps above, your little four-legged love will start to learn that it is okay to be alone for a while.

Furthermore, it can become problematic if a dachshund receives too much love by letting them get away with everything… as they will become more demanding every day and cause more crying than there was at the start.

The DoxieLife Team
💚 – Last modified 05/10/26