I have to admit that ten years ago, when I got my first dachshund, I was ignorant of some of the special back issues that these wonderful little dogs have to deal with.
Unfortunately, it took an incident with our own dachshund back problems to make major changes in ours and our dachshunds lifestyle.
Since then, I've learned a great deal about "wiener dogs" and now have a second little girl who is precious to me.
This time, we're learning as much as possible and sharing it with all our dachshund-loving friends.
Here's what I've found out about preventing back problems in dachshunds and other short-legged breeds.
First, dachshunds are considered a "chondrodystrophic breed" which just means that they have extra short legs and long, delicate backs.
Other breeds with this problem condition include beagles, Pekinese, miniature poodles, cocker spaniels, Pomeranians, basset hounds and the "puddin'" Jack Russell.
And even though they've been bred for it and it makes them all so adorable this is a problem.
Here's how to prevent or reduce the chances of having back problems.
One surprising way is to ditch that collar when you are going for a walk or car ride.
Get a harness instead.
The collar can serve as an anchor point for whipping their body around.
You may be the kindest gentlest dog walker around but what happens when that little wienie dog tries to take off in the opposite direction when you're not looking? Their neck and their delicate vertebra will be twisted.
A harness supports the middle of their back and more pressure is taken on their chest, a strong point for the.
Another very important way is to keep your dachsie in good shape.
In our household, this means nobody gets to eat whatever they want.
In your house, it should mean limited snacks, good healthy food (but not too much), regular walks, and weekly weigh-ins.
There's a lot of complaining and sad looks (from everyone) but remember how bad it feels when you tweak your back.
Now imagine seeing those begging eyes full of pain.
Yeah, it makes me want to put down the snacks, too.
Finally - and the most difficult - NO jumping off furniture.
We now have a ramp to the bed and to the sofa.
It doesn't matter if it's a funny-looking addition to the living room furniture, it's important that there is no launching off of anything.
Switching to a harness is probably the easiest.
Building a couple of ramps may take some time and money.
Losing weight or staying trim is probably the hardest.
But please do these things to protect your precious dogs and prevent dachshund back problems.