The Dachshund...

From the book The Dachshund or Teckel

by Herbert Sanborn, pub.1949

This little dog with ten inch clearance

Presents a ludicrous appearance,

His legs are bowed, his feet turn out,

He gives us much to laugh about.

He's two dogs long, a half dog high,

In spite of which he's quick and spry;

So at his funny build don't smirk -

It's perfect for his special work.

For Dachshund plays a hero's role

In going down a badger's hole;

A badger is a savage fighter,

A vicious scratcher and a biter.

And folks who call him "dash-hound" show

Their ignorance and do not know

That dox-hoont is his proper name

In Germany from which he came.
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I really like the introduction to the poem also;

'The voice of the poet is heard interpreting for the mute masses their wonder & respect ... illustrating a change of heart toward him that contrasts favorably with an attitude of a period where he was tolerated under the sobriquet "badger dog"... & although the poem may not in certain respects be quite up the standard of the linguist; it radiates good-will and attests to the recently aquired favor of the dog.'

Breed specific literature (propaganda) is humorous & invariably represents the particular breed as;

• The original breed; whose roots can be traced back to _________. (fill in ancient civilization here)

• Imbued with great nobility (usually involves having protected kings somewhere in its history), heroism, & steadfast devotion.

• The most useful breed to mankind, making far-reaching contributions to humanity.
  
• Possessing the best temperament to be found in a dog. Anywhere.
  
  I once worked at a dog-registry & I've never forgotten the deadly seriousness with which things like official color designation or kennel name were discussed.