How Long Does a Dachshund Hold a Grudge?
Ever wondered if your Dachshund remembers when you accidentally forgot their walk or gave them a late treat? These little dogs may be small, but their personalities are full of surprises. Many owners notice that Dachshunds can act a bit distant or moody after feeling upset.
But how long does a Dachshund hold a grudge? Understanding their behavior helps you know what’s really going on behind those expressive eyes and how to make things right when your furry friend seems a little hurt.
Understanding the Dachshund’s Personality
Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers. This means they were designed to be independent thinkers who could make quick decisions without constant guidance. That same independent streak shows up in their everyday behavior — they’re confident, sometimes stubborn, and always aware of what’s going on around them.
Because of their sharp intelligence, they remember routines, sounds, and even moods. (To explore more about their temperament and independence, learn more here.)
When something upsets them, they don’t just forget it right away. Their loyalty makes them sensitive, and they may take a bit of time before forgiving what they see as unfair treatment.
Do Dachshunds Really Hold Grudges?
While dogs don’t hold grudges the same way humans do, Dachshunds can remember negative experiences for a while. They associate certain actions or tones with feelings of discomfort or sadness.
For example, if you raised your voice during training, your Dachshund might remember that moment and act wary around you for a day or two. (To better handle such training moments positively, this guide explains effective ways to build trust.)
This isn’t a grudge in the human sense — it’s more of an emotional memory. They recall the feeling of being upset and may show it through behavior changes like ignoring you, avoiding eye contact, or being less playful.
Signs That Your Dachshund Might Be Upset
When a Dachshund feels offended or hurt, they often express it in clear but subtle ways. You might notice that your dog stops following you around or refuses to respond to your usual commands. Some may ignore their favorite toy or turn their head away when you try to pet them.
Others may sulk in their bed or act stubborn when it’s time to go for a walk. These behaviors are their way of saying, “I didn’t like that.” It’s important to recognize these small signs so you can respond with patience rather than frustration.
How Long Does a Dachshund Stay Upset?
The length of time a Dachshund holds onto a negative feeling can vary based on their personality and the situation. Some Dachshunds bounce back within a few hours, while others might stay distant for a couple of days.
Generally, they do not stay angry for long periods unless the issue repeats or they feel unsafe. If you show kindness, maintain a calm tone, and offer positive interactions, they usually forgive quickly. Consistency in care and affection reminds them that they can trust you again.
Factors That Affect How Long a Dachshund Holds a Grudge
Several things influence how quickly your Dachshund forgives. Their age, temperament, and past experiences all play a role. Younger Dachshunds may move on faster, as they’re still learning how to respond to emotions. Older dogs, especially those who’ve had stressful pasts, may take longer to trust again.
The way you handle the situation also matters. If you approach your Dachshund gently, avoid shouting, and offer reassurance, they’re more likely to let go of their bad feelings sooner.
The Importance of Trust and Communication
For a Dachshund, trust is everything. These dogs form deep emotional attachments to their owners and can sense changes in tone, body language, and energy. When that trust feels broken — whether through harsh scolding or unintentional neglect — they need reassurance before feeling secure again.
Talking to your Dachshund in a calm, soothing voice and spending quality time together helps rebuild that connection. Over time, they learn that even if something upsets them, your bond remains strong.
How to Make Peace with a Grumpy Dachshund
When your Dachshund seems to be holding a grudge, the best thing you can do is show understanding. Give them some space at first, and then slowly reintroduce affection through gentle touches and treats.
Avoid forcing interaction; instead, let them come to you. Engage in positive activities they enjoy, like short play sessions or a favorite walk route. Consistency in these positive moments helps remind your dog that they are loved and safe, and soon enough, their mood usually improves.
Preventing Hurt Feelings in the Future
You can minimize future grudges by focusing on gentle training methods and clear communication. Dachshunds respond best to positive reinforcement — rewarding good behavior rather than punishing mistakes. (To make your training routine more effective, learn more here.)
Use treats, praise, and a calm voice to guide them. Avoid loud corrections or scolding, as these can make them fearful or defensive. Setting consistent routines also helps your Dachshund feel secure. When they know what to expect, they’re less likely to react negatively to changes or misunderstandings.
How Dachshunds Show Forgiveness
Dachshunds have their own unique ways of showing forgiveness. When they’ve moved past being upset, you’ll notice them following you around again, wagging their tail, or bringing you their favorite toy.
They might curl up next to you or nudge your hand for attention. These are their signs of reconciliation — a way of saying everything is okay again. Because they are loyal and loving by nature, forgiveness usually comes naturally once they feel reassured and understood.
Building a Strong and Loving Relationship
The more time you spend understanding your Dachshund’s emotions, the stronger your connection becomes. Learning their signals, respecting their space, and showing patience during tough moments go a long way.
Remember that every dog has its own personality, and what works for one may not work for another. By staying calm, kind, and consistent, you help your Dachshund feel safe enough to forgive quickly and trust deeply. Over time, you’ll see fewer moments of tension and more joyful companionship.
Final Words
So, how long does a Dachshund hold a grudge? Usually, not very long — especially if they feel loved, safe, and understood. While they may remember moments of hurt, their forgiving nature and loyal heart soon take over.
These dogs thrive on positive attention, gentle communication, and trust. By treating your Dachshund with care and empathy, you’ll find that any hard feelings fade quickly, leaving behind a bond filled with warmth, affection, and mutual respect.
FAQs
Do Dachshunds hold grudges?
Dachshunds don’t hold grudges like humans, but they can remember when something upsets them. They may act distant or moody for a short time before forgiving.
How long do dogs keep grudges?
Most dogs don’t stay upset for long. They usually move on within a few hours to a couple of days once they feel safe and loved again
What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?
The 7-7-7 rule means giving a new dog 7 days to adjust, 7 weeks to learn routines, and 7 months to fully feel at home and bonded.
How long can dogs hold poop for?
On average, adult dogs can hold their poop for about 8 to 10 hours, though it’s healthier to let them go out every 6 to 8 hours.
