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A smiling older man in a cap crouches in a backyard as a tennis ball flies through the air beside a dapple Dachshund. 21 / 36

The Tennis Ball Was Already in the Air. Short Legs, Big Plans.

AI imagedachshundfetchbackyard

A fuzzy yellow tennis ball hangs in midair, frozen just above the grass, and the game is officially on. Grandpa Ray crouches in the backyard in his cap and vest, grinning wide with the satisfaction of a perfect toss. Pickles stands in front of him, low to the ground and ready to launch, her dapple coat spotted in gray, black, and copper. Her mouth is open in an excited pant, and her eyes are locked somewhere just past the camera, as though she has already calculated exactly where that ball will land. A wooden fence, a stack of firewood, flowering pots, and a few garden tools frame the lawn behind them.

Fetch is a great way to burn energy and build a bond, and many Dachshunds love chasing a ball. Because of their long backs, though, it is worth keeping the game gentle. Rolling or tossing the ball low along the ground is better than high throws that encourage leaping and twisting. Short sessions on soft grass are easier on their joints than long, intense games on hard surfaces. Choose a ball sized for small mouths, so it is easy to carry but too big to swallow, and replace it once it starts to come apart. Regular play also helps keep Dachshunds at a healthy weight, which is one of the best ways to protect their spines.

Pickles may have short legs, but her enthusiasm is enormous. One more toss, Grandpa Ray, and she will be off like a rocket.

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