Grandpa Hank Dropped the Tailgate to Rest. Pretzel Had Something to Say.
The tailgate of the old silver pickup is down, and Grandpa Hank has settled onto it in his blue plaid shirt, worn jeans, and trusty brown suspenders. His grey beard frames a soft, crinkly smile as he looks down at Pretzel, his dapple Dachshund, who has planted herself right beside him on the scuffed truck bed. Pretzel's nose is tipped up toward his face, her speckled coat a patchwork of silver, chocolate, and tan. Behind them, a chicken-wire garden fence holds back potted greens, and flat green fields stretch toward a hazy horizon.
Dapple is a coat pattern, not a separate breed, and it gives Dachshunds those striking mottled patches. Whatever the coat, Dachshunds are bold, loyal little hounds that were originally bred to follow badgers into burrows, which explains their big voices and stubborn streak. Their long backs need some care: owners are usually advised to keep them at a healthy weight and to limit jumping off high surfaces like truck beds, couches, and stairs. Lifting a Dachshund down with support under both the chest and hindquarters is a simple habit that protects the spine. Ramps and steps can help at home, and your vet can give advice tailored to your dog.
Some afternoons don't need a plan. A lowered tailgate, a view of the fields, and a small dog who thinks you hung the moon are plenty. Hank and Pretzel seem to know that better than anyone.
