Five Red Dachshund Puppies Moved Into the Row of Rain Boots

Five rain boots stand in a neat row in the hall: olive green, navy, mustard, charcoal and burgundy. In the top of each boot sits a small red Dachshund puppy, with only the head and front paws showing. They look like a row of tiny flowers in tall vases, each with ears dangling at a slightly different angle and eyes fixed on the same interesting thing.

Puppies love any container that fits their bodies, and boots seem to attract Dachshunds especially. The breed was designed to squeeze into narrow places, so a boot may feel like a tunnel. It is a charming sight, but it is wise to keep real boots off-limits as chew toys. Rubber, laces and insoles can be dangerous if swallowed. If you want a safe alternative, offer a puppy a tunnel toy or a rolled blanket he can dive into. Rainy days with a young Dachshund also call for a little planning: short legs sit close to wet ground, so wipe paws and bellies with a towel afterward, and consider a coat for chilly weather. Muddy walks can be saved for when the vet says your puppy has had all his vaccines.

This lineup is a work of art. The boots are anchored, the puppies are balanced, and nobody seems ready to hop out and spoil the arrangement.