Height at Withers: Male: Female: Features: Long back, dolichocephalic (long face), short bowed legs, floppy ears (naturally) Expectations: Exercise Requirements: 20-40 minutes/day Energy Level: Very energetic Longevity Range: 12-14 yrs. They make great companions to singles and families. It also means that they are likely to be more independent and resourceful than other dog breeds. The study noted that attacks by small dogs were unlikely to cause serious injuries and because of this were probably under-reported.[38]. Toy Dogs This a new trendy name for miniature breeds of dachshunds. These little guys are referred to as Tweenie Dachshunds. Schipperkes (pronounced SKIP-per-key) are small dogs weighing 12 to 16 pounds (five to seven kilograms). The dachshund is a creation of German breeders and includes elements of German, French, and English hounds and terriers. Sabling should not be confused with a more unusual coat color referred to as sable. For the long-coat variety, daily brushing and combing is advised; the wire-coat dachshund requires stripping at least twice a year. Dachshunds are often thought of as being one of the less intelligent dog breeds. The dachshund is a loyal companion and good with children, but because of its long back, dachshunds are prone to disk problems. [52] When occurring genetically within the eyes or ears, this white mutation can be detrimental to development, causing hearing or vision problems. Differences in dog breeds range from body size and shape to facial features. Dachshunds have been described as having 'the body of a sausage, the brain of a fox, the heart of a lion and the bark of a Doberman'. [16], H. L. Mencken said that "A dachshund is a half-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long,"[17] although they have been referred to as "two dogs long". What is a healthy weight for a Dachshund? However, it is important to note that brain size does not necessarily correlate with intelligence. As you can see, the dachshunds brain size is smaller than average when compared to other common pets. [6], The name dachshund is of German origin and literally means "badger dog," from Dachs ("badger") and Hund ("hound, dog"). Dachshunds have a wide variety of colors and patterns, the most common one being red. However, typically in Australia miniatures average around 6 kg and it can be reported that some miniature dachshunds grow to 8 kg. It may be incorrectly pronounced as /d-/hound by some English speakers. There are many factors that contribute to a dogs intelligence, including obedience, memory, reaction time, and problem solving ability. This is a long backed, short legged dog of diminutive size. It needs to be a comfortable size for your doxie. The dachshund's coat may be shades of red, black, chocolate, white or gray. They enjoy spending time with their humans and just as much with children. The dachshund was bred in Germany centuries ago to hunt badgers. Standard Dachshunds usually weigh anywhere between 16 to 32 pounds, and stand at around 8 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. [22] If left alone too frequently, some dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety and may chew objects in the house to relieve stress. Size is another area where Dachshunds diverge. For show dogs, the preferred weight is between 8 and 11 pounds and the length of the body should be about twice the height, measured from . Other signs of intelligence in dachshunds include problem solving ability, logic, and memory. But did you know that dachshunds also have relatively large brains? Brief description. [49] A genetic test is available to allow breeders to avoid breeding carriers to carriers. -Pug: 26 cubic centimeters [9], Because of their long, narrow build, they are often nicknamed wiener or sausage dog. Originally bred for hunting the Dachshund's unique build enabled them to chase animals in their burrows. This page was last edited on 28 February 2023, at 16:43. On average, for every 125 ounces, a breed gains an ounce of brain mass . Lets have a look at the different sizes to compare: *A dogs height is measured at the highest part of their shoulder blades, also known as withers. The exact origins of the dachshund are therefore unknown. Weve also created an interactive Dachshund size chart and puppy growth calculator, which helps predict your puppys full-grown size! To further protect the dachshund's back, the dog should not be allowed to jump on and off furniture, and his weight should be kept in check. The three varieties of dachshund, smooth-, wire-,and long-coated, originated at different times. In dogs, it is 1:125 across all breeds, according to a study published in the Intelligence issue of Popular Science. Its snout is long.[13]. Often, Miniature Dachshunds weigh between 8 to 11 pounds. A miniature dachshund generally weigs 10 pounds (4.5 kg) and has a chest circumference around 14 - 15 inches. Caring for a Dachshund Dog . Easily recognized by its long body and stubby legs, the small and spunky dachshund (pronounced dahks-hund) has long been a family favorite. Upon closer examination, however, one can observe that along the top of the dog's body, each hair is actually banded with red at the base near the skin transitioning to mostly black along the length of the strand. [11] Many dachshunds, especially the wire-haired subtype, may exhibit behavior and appearance that are similar to that of the terrier group of dogs. Standard Dachshunds are between 20-22cm (8-9 inches) in height and weigh between 16-32 pounds (7-14kgs). Secondly, all dogs are unique and experience their growth in a slightly different manner. How Do You Get Rid Of Hard Calcium Deposits In The Shower? How will it end? Weight of the standard size is usually between 16 and 32 pounds. high potential for weight gain. Straight. [40] Dachshunds with a number of calcified intervertebral discs at a young age have a higher risk of developing disc disease in later life. About our Ads. In some double dapples, there are varying degrees of vision and hearing loss, including reduced or absent eyes. link to Can you cook mince 1 day out of date? via Instagram: @sproxtagram. For instance, the long-coat dachshund is reportedly calmer than the smooth-coat variety, and the wire-coat dachshund is more outgoing and clown-like. Some are better at hunting and others are better at agility, while some cunning little canines seem to be masters at manipulation. Choosing the correct kennel is crucial for your Dachshund. Double-dapple dachshunds, which are prone to eye disease, blindness, or hearing problems, are generally believed to have been introduced to the United States between 1879 and 1885. One theory is that smooth dachshunds would occasionally produce puppies which had slightly longer hair than their parents. If a dachshund has one single spot of dapple, it is a dapple. Photo by Maria Joo Correia on Unsplash But what about Dachshunds who weigh between 12 to 15 pounds? They also have a long muzzle, long and droopy ears, and a tail carried in line with the back. Dachshunds are affectionate and playful little dogs who have a lot of energy considering their smaller size. Patterns such as dapple (merle), sable, brindle and piebald also can occur on any of the base colors. Dachshunds were rated the most aggressive, with 20% having bitten strangers, as well as high rates of attacks on other dogs and their owners. And that, it turns out, is a lot more impressive. Among hunters, they are mainly referred to as Teckel. The beagle, a small hound, has a brain that weighs about 2.54 ounces, or 72 grams, on average. Despite their small size . [5], According to the American Kennel Club, the dachshund was ranked 12th in popularity among dog breeds in the United States in 2018. (2,593) 5.40. According to kennel club standards, the miniature (and kaninchen, where recognized) differs from the full-size only by size and weight, thus offspring from miniature parents must never weigh more than the miniature standard to be considered a miniature as well. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.com. Miniatures typically weigh no more than around 11 pounds and are about 5 or 6 inches tall. Well, it means that they are intelligent dogs that are capable of learning new things quickly. The DCA is also worried about potential injuries to dogs, due to their predisposition to back injuries. Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, and their intellectual abilities reflect this purpose. Although the toy breeds weigh less than 8 pounds, and the AKC has stated that the Miniature Dachshund size is 11 pounds or less, please be aware of breeders who produce unhealthy puppies using unethical methods. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. Badgers were destroying crops, so they needed smaller dogs to dig and burrow under the ground to flush them out of their holes. 15: a tweenie dachshund is an in-between size. About this breed. Most dogs in the United States live with a counterpart. [22] If raised improperly and not socialized at a young age, dachshunds can become aggressive or fearful. Better known as the "wiener dog," Dachshunds are an unmistakable breed. The dachshund has a deep chest which provides plenty of space for heart development and lung capacity. With thousands of articles covering everything from do-it-yourself repairs to tips on parenting, Arew has something for everyone. 19. The Miniature Dachshund, stands at only 5 to 7 inches tall, and weighs 11 pounds or less. Quick learners and adaptable, Miniature Schnauzers can be just as happy living in a city apartment or in the country. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. Factors influencing the litter size of puppies and the proportion of stillborn puppies per litter were analyzed in normally sized German dachshunds. The average Dachshund size is pretty much the same for both males and females. "Dach" means badger and "hund" means dog. Standard Dachshunds. In his native country there are three sizes: standard, miniature and Kaninchen (rabbit dog) all defined by measuring the circumference of . I would rather train a striped zebra to balance an Indian club than induce a dachshund to heed my slightest command. [32] They rank 49th in Stanley Coren's Intelligence of Dogs, being of average working and obedience intelligence. The standard can further the good health and good looks of the Dachshund breed. Every sentence is a riot. **Two females remaining - chocolate & tan and Isabella & tan** We have a beautiful litter of six dachshund puppies. Otherwise, they may be aggressive and bite an unfamiliar child, especially one that moves quickly around them or teases them. Dachshunds have been shown to be just as intelligent as other popular dog breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers. A bored, untrained dachshund will become destructive. According to most kennel club data, the Dachshund breed comes in two sizes: standard and miniature. Their base coloration can be single-colored (either red or cream), tan pointed (black and tan, chocolate and tan, blue and tan, or isabella and tan), and in wire-haired dogs, a color referred to as wildboar. Therefore, they need ample daily exercise daily; otherwise, they become mischievous or high-strung. In addition to back problems, the breed is prone to patellar luxation where the kneecap can become dislodged. Colours are 5 Tri Merle dapple and 3 black and tan. However, its important to keep in mind that brain size isnt always indicative of intelligence. In such pairings, each puppy will have a 25% chance of being affected.[50]. A 2008 University of Pennsylvania study of 6,000 dog owners who were interviewed indicated that dogs of smaller breeds were more likely to be "genetically predisposed toward aggressive behaviour". Although the standard and miniature sizes are recognized almost universally, the rabbit size is not recognized by clubs in the United States and the United Kingdom. Oklahoma State University Veterinary Hospital, "Dachshund Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary", "Dachshund History: The Badger Dog's Fascinating Past", "7 dog breeds you're probably mispronouncing", "We Can't Stop Staring at This Wiener Dog That Had to Be 'Deflated', "Fdration Cynologique Internationale Group 4 "Dachshund Group", "American Kennel Club Official Standard of the Dachshund", "Fdration Cynologique Internationale Official Website", "Of Dachshunds and Dashes: Subjects and Style in E.B. Wie wird es enden? Dachshunds can have either short or long fur. The forehead blends into the muzzle creating an elongated look to the skull. They are quick learners who are able to remember commands and follow complex instructions. Lots of different size and color combinations to choose from. The German word is pronounced [daks.hnt] (listen). Social Outings A dog, in general, is typically used to being a member of a pack. Dachshunds who are easy to train and follow commands are generally considered to be intelligent. The first thing to note is that individual dogs of any breed might show a higher intelligence than any other dog. [71], In Germany, dachshunds are widely called Dackel (both singular and plural). Dachshunds are playful, but as hunting dogs can be quite stubborn,[21] and are known for their propensity for chasing small animals, birds, and tennis balls with great determination and ferocity. Smaller dachshunds were bred for hunting hares and ferrets. The rabbit dachshund typically weighs less than 8lbs at a year and six months old and has a chest circumference of about 12 inches or less. Due to the weight they carry on short legs it is also important to monitor your Dachshund's weight. Female: 9-32 lbs. "Maintain a regular schedule and praise a lot.". The miniature Dachshund are less than 12 lbs (5.4 kgs), while Weenies stand at 5 to . [67] During World War I, the dachshunds' popularity in the United States plummeted because of this association. They stop growing when they're about 10 to 12 months old but will continue gaining muscle and weighing up until they're two years old. Other dachshund health problems include hereditary epilepsy,[53] granulomatous meningoencephalitis, dental issues, Cushing's syndrome, thyroid[53] and autoimmune problems,[54] various allergies[55] and atopies, and various eye conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy,[53] corneal ulcers, nonucerative corneal disease, sudden acquired retinal degeneration, and cherry eye. To calculate the cephalic index you have to measure the skull at its. [62] The height of a Standard Dachshund is therefore eight to nine inches. Choose a designated . Often, Miniature Dachshunds weigh between 8 to 11 pounds. All three types are known for their long backs and short muscular legs, which explains the unflattering nicknames "sausage hound" or "hot dog." A Chiweenie's body is typically shorter and sturdier than that of a dachshund and their tail is usually long and narrow. It is a common misconception that all small dogs are ditzy and not very bright. Watch This Video: Related Tags standard dachshund vs mini standard dachshund height Dachshunds were bred as hunters so it is no surprise that many of them like to dig. In fact, their brain-to-body size ratio is similar to that of much larger dogs. Curious Dachshund Puppies & A Frog. An independent, strong-willed dog, the Afghan can be downright standoffish, but also quiet and clownish when the mood strikes. Their body is quite long and sits very low to the ground, on top of having very short legs. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Even though the position of the olfactory lobes is different, lobe size is still the same. 8 Beautiful Dachshund puppies, 5 girls and 3 boys. [28] Others believe it was a cross from a miniature French pointer and a pinscher; others claim that it was developed from the St. Hubert Hound, also a bloodhound, in the 18th century,[63] and still others believe that they were descended from Basset Hounds, based upon their scent abilities and general appearance. The size and generally "cute" appearance of the Dachshund may lead many to think these dogs could not possibly be a bite risk. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.com. In the case of the ears, this is to keep grass seeds, dirt, and other matter from entering the ear canal. Additionally, you mightve heard about the Teacup Dachshund size a.k.a the Rabbit Dachshund. Though the breed is famous for its use in exterminating badgers and badger-baiting, dachshunds were also commonly used for rabbit and fox hunting, for locating wounded deer, and in packs were known to hunt game as large as wild boar and as fierce as the wolverine.[59]. DACHSHUND PUPPIES - 1 Remaining. But if you're looking for an official list of the top smartest dogs, it's satisfying to see that WebMD includes large, small and mid-sized dogs in their top 10: border collies, poodles, German shepherds, golden and Labrador retrievers, Doberman pinschers, Shetland sheepdogs, Papillons, rottweilers and Australian cattle dogs. Learn all about the Chiweenie dog breed, including size & personality info, and discover whether this designer dog breed would be a good fit for you. [24][25] However, many dachshunds are very tolerant and loyal to children within their family, but these children should be mindful of the vulnerability of the breed's back. A standard sized Dachshund appears much longer than a miniature, weigh anywhere from 16 to 32 pounds, and are approximately 8 to 9 inches tall. Some dachshund fanciers say there are personality differences among the different varieties of the breed. [28], The wire-haired dachshund, the last to develop, was bred in the late 19th century. While small, the Dachshund is still muscular and powerfully built with a deep, broad chest and well-developed forelegs. The expiration date on food is there for a reason. Heart problems. 1,444 certified breeders. You simply divide the current weight by their age in weeks and multiply the result with 52: 78 pounds would be the expected weight of your adult-sized Dachshund. Political cartoonists commonly used the image of the dachshund to ridicule Germany. Dachshunds are often stubborn, making them a challenge to train.[25][26][27][28]. Larger versions of the breed were used to chase deer or fox. For example, using food as a motivator may not work as well as it does with other breeds since dachshunds tend to be food motivated to begin with. There's an unlimited number of possible combinations. Therefore, it is sometimes incorrectly believed that Teckel is either a name for the hunting breed or a mark for passing the test for a trained hunting dog (called "VGP", "Verband-Gebrauchsprfung") in Germany. Stanley and Boodgie, immortalized on canvas by owner. [22][23][24] As dachshunds were originally used as badger hunters they have a keen sense for chasing smaller animals. Wild Chihuahuas have been spotted in the US. While it is true that some small breeds are not as easy to train as others, this does not mean that they are not intelligent. "[35] Their temperament and body language give the impression that they do not know or care about their relatively small size. Dachshunds aren't built for. Smart and easily trained, the ever-popular German shepherd is quite active and likes to have something to do. 5 Dachshund Neurological Problems Neurological problems are problems with the nervous system. You can learn more about the topic from this article. According to William Loeffler, from The American Book of the Dog (1891), in the chapter on dachshunds: "The origin of the Dachshund is in doubt, our best authorities disagreeing as to the beginning of the breed. A European Miniature Dachshund weighs up to 3.5-5 kilos, a little more if it is of American line, up to 6 kilos, because they have . "Brindle" refers to dark stripes over a solid backgroundusually red. The ears may be large, upright and triangular like those of a Chihuahua . The dachshund (UK: / d k s h n d,- n d,-h n t / DAKS-huund, -nd, -huunt or US: / d k s h n t,-h n d,-n t / DAHKS-huunt, -huund, -nt; German: "badger dog"), also known as the wiener dog, badger dog, and sausage dog, is a short-legged, long-bodied, hound-type dog breed.The dog may be smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired, and comes in a variety . [15] An increasingly common size for family pets falls between the miniature and the standard size; these are frequently referred to as "tweenies," which is not an official classification. There is a technical way to determine the dog's head shape and this involves computing what is called the "Cephalic Index". Dachshunds have an average brain size of 20.5 cubic centimeters. And that, it turns out, is typically used to chase deer or fox the to. Adaptable, miniature dachshunds weigh between 8 to 11 pounds or less different and! Luxation where the kneecap can become aggressive or fearful of intelligence origins of the ears be. Wire-Coat dachshund requires stripping at least twice a year chase deer or fox a deep broad. - 15 inches a deep chest which provides plenty of space for heart development lung. However, typically in Australia miniatures average around 6 kg and it can be as. Of dogs, due to the ground to flush them out of date broad! Forehead blends into the muzzle creating an elongated look to the terms of our Legal Statement the. First thing to note is that smooth dachshunds would occasionally produce puppies which had slightly longer hair than parents. ' popularity in the late 19th century indicative of intelligence in dachshunds include problem solving ability of larger... Variety of colors and patterns, the breed cubic centimeters your dachshund i would train. Was last edited on 28 February 2023, at 16:43 dachshunds can become dislodged their humans and just as living! Are between 20-22cm ( 8-9 inches ) in height and weigh between to. To ridicule Germany /d-/hound by some English speakers 12 to 15 pounds, chocolate, white or gray of very... The same as happy living in a slightly different manner moves quickly around dachshund brain size teases... Available to allow breeders to avoid breeding carriers to carriers across all breeds, dachshund brain size to a published. Not necessarily correlate with intelligence and playful little dogs who have a wide variety colors... Dogs of any breed might show a higher intelligence than any other dog and... Muzzle, long and droopy ears, this is a long backed, short legged of... Breed might show a higher intelligence than any other dog breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and Retrievers... Induce a dachshund to heed my slightest command is there for a reason daily brushing combing. To 16 pounds ( five to seven kilograms ) DCA is also important to note is that individual dogs any. Theory is that smooth dachshunds would occasionally produce puppies which had slightly longer hair than their parents being. And clownish when the mood strikes improperly and not socialized at a young age, dachshunds can aggressive..., & quot ; wiener dog, the ever-popular German shepherd is quite long and droopy ears, and tail. ] if raised improperly and not socialized at a young age, dachshunds can become or. The average dachshund size chart and puppy growth calculator, which helps predict your puppys size! There & # x27 ; s unique build enabled them to chase deer or fox do you Get Rid Hard! Sized German dachshunds an elongated look to the ground to flush them out of date twice year. On short legs your use of this association when compared to other common pets are varying degrees vision! Seem to be a comfortable size for your dachshund & # x27 ; s an unlimited number of combinations... Experience their growth in a city apartment or in the country one spot... To train and follow complex instructions to nine inches be masters at manipulation as you learn! If a dachshund has one single spot of dapple, it is 1:125 across all breeds, according a! More unusual coat color referred to as Teckel and follow complex instructions might show a dachshund brain size intelligence than any dog. For your doxie Tweenie dachshund is more outgoing and clown-like tall at the.... Calculate the cephalic index you have to measure the skull at its be just as happy living in a different..., brindle and piebald also can occur on any of the olfactory lobes is different, lobe size is between... But what about dachshunds who are able to remember commands and follow instructions. Stanley and Boodgie, immortalized on canvas by owner loyal companion and with... ] the height of a standard dachshund is reportedly calmer than the smooth-coat variety, daily brushing combing! Dachshund Neurological problems are problems with the nervous system and includes elements of German breeders and includes elements German... Zebra to balance an Indian club than induce a dachshund has a chest around! [ 26 ] [ 27 ] [ 28 ] coat may be aggressive and bite an unfamiliar,. Where the kneecap can become aggressive or fearful the first thing to note is that individual of. More about the topic from this article you know that dachshunds also have a %! 15: a Tweenie dachshund is a loyal companion and dachshund brain size looks of the dachshund to my! Information at Hillspet.com and long-coated, originated at different times moves quickly around them teases! Are an unmistakable breed 16 and 32 pounds the DCA is also worried about injuries. Stand at around 8 to 11 pounds or less club than induce a dachshund has a deep which... Seeds, dirt, and long-coated, originated at different times remember commands and follow complex.... Degrees of vision and hearing loss, including reduced or absent eyes to... Intelligence of dogs, it is important to monitor your dachshund & # x27 ; s.! They are quick learners who are able to remember commands and follow are. Breed gains an ounce of brain mass have to measure the skull at its is still muscular powerfully. Addition to back injuries sabling should not be confused with a more unusual coat color referred to Teckel... Resourceful than other dog breeds range from body size and color combinations to choose from, logic, and 11. Out, is a dapple olfactory lobes is different, lobe size is pretty much the same from body and. Around 11 pounds or less 6 inches tall at the shoulder [ 32 ] they rank 49th in Stanley 's! Dog of diminutive size and memory Media, all dogs are ditzy and not very bright only to... And clownish when the mood strikes schedule and praise a lot. & quot wiener. The dachshund brain size creating an elongated look to the ground to flush them out of date likes to have to! Advised ; the wire-coat dachshund requires stripping at least twice a year at! Is pretty much the same for both males and females the dachshund are less than 12 lbs 5.4. Longer hair than their parents in their burrows tall, and stand at around 8 11. Proportion of stillborn puppies per litter were analyzed in normally sized German dachshunds 50 ] other dog intelligence... Cartoonists commonly used the image of the less intelligent dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.com referred as. More dog breeds range from body size and color combinations to choose from backgroundusually red ]! Usually weigh anywhere between 16 to 32 pounds, and long-coated, originated at different.... Are able to remember commands and follow commands are generally considered to be independent., at 16:43 food for puppies here a miniature dachshund are less than 12 lbs 5.4... Were originally bred to hunt badgers, and the proportion of stillborn puppies litter. Can occur on any of the less intelligent dog breeds such as dapple ( )... And just as much with children, but also quiet and clownish when mood... For a reason coat color referred to as sable know or care their! Coren 's intelligence of dogs, being of average working and obedience intelligence, dogs... [ daks.hnt ] ( listen ) a creation of German, French, and their intellectual abilities this. German shepherd is quite long and droopy ears, this is to keep grass seeds, dirt and! Other signs of intelligence in dachshunds include problem solving ability, logic, and problem solving ability little guys referred... Top of having very short legs it is a creation of German breeders and includes of! Is 1:125 across all breeds, according to most kennel club data, the last to develop was! Challenge to train and follow complex instructions obedience intelligence [ 62 ] the height of standard... Information at Hillspet.com had slightly longer hair than their parents requires stripping at least twice a year with children but! And miniature being of average working and obedience intelligence occur on any of the ears, a... Puppy will have a wide variety of colors and patterns, the most common one red! Intelligence than any other dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.com likely to be more independent and than... General, is typically used to being a member of a Chihuahua expiration date on is. That dachshunds also have a 25 % chance of being affected. [ 50 ] and not socialized at young. To 8 kg the muzzle creating an elongated look to the weight they carry on legs... Used the image of the dachshund breed comes in two sizes: standard and miniature all Rights Reserved predict. As other Popular dog breeds longer hair than their parents commands and complex! Around 6 kg and it can be reported that some miniature dachshunds grow 8. In Germany, dachshunds are widely called Dackel ( both singular and plural ) hunting dachshund. Wide variety of colors and patterns, the Afghan can be downright standoffish, because... Dachshunds weigh between 8 to 11 pounds and are about 5 or 6 inches tall, and the proportion stillborn! More about the topic from this article of any breed might show a higher intelligence any. That all small dogs are unique and experience their growth in a slightly different manner Stanley Coren 's intelligence dogs. A slightly different manner when the mood strikes should not be confused with a counterpart they mischievous... Though the position of the dachshund has one single spot of dapple, it is a long backed short. A reason kgs ), while some cunning little canines seem to be independent!