Otto Held His Post by the Wreath and Waited for the Doorbell
Sitting upright on a cool tile floor, a black and tan Dachshund looks straight ahead with big, serious eyes. Above him a green door holds a wreath of pine, berries, and a plaid bow. To the side, coats and an umbrella hang from wall hooks, a bench holds neatly folded blankets, and a pair of boots sits on the floor beside a potted plant. Pine needles have been tracked onto the tiles.
Dachshunds have a loud bark and a big sense of duty for such a small dog, and many of them take the job of greeting or warning about visitors very seriously. Their long body and short legs are charming, but they also mean the spine should be protected. Avoid letting a Dachshund leap from furniture, and support his back when you pick him up. Daily walks and mental games help keep a smart, stubborn hound happy.
The entryway during the holidays is a busy place, with guests, packages, and open doors. A dog who sits by the door may be waiting for someone, or may simply be on guard. Keep an eye on exits so he does not slip outside, and keep the greenery out of reach, as some holiday plants can irritate a dog's stomach. We will call this watchful gentleman Otto. He sits tall and calm, a doorman in black and tan, ready to announce the next arrival.
