5-Year-Old Dachshund Wins 'Best In Breed' In 2009 Westminster Dog Show

Festivites for the Westminster Dog Show are over and Stump, a 10-year-old Sussex Spaniel, won the coveted "Best In Show" award. But more than one dog steps away as a winner at the Westminster. And Valerie Diker and her dog Jessie should know! This five-year-old long-haired Dachshund and his happy owner stopped by to talk about winning the Westminster Dog Show 2009's Best of Breed for long-haired Dachshunds.

The long, low sturdy body of the Dachshund, developed in Germany three centuries ago, is a perfect example of form following function. With a prominent forechest and front legs that can dig, the Dachshund tenaciously and efficiently goes underground to hunt badger and other den-dwelling animals. He is a versatile hunter and his instincts help him to excel in conformation, earthdog, obedience, agility and tracking events.

Bright and affectionate, the Dachshund is a wonderful, loyal pet. This unique breed comes in three Varieties - Longhaired, Smooth, and Wirehaired - competing separately; and in each variety, two sizes: miniature and standard, which are shown together.

Dachshunds are versatile hunters and their instincts help him to excel in conformation, earthdog, obedience, agility and tracking events. Bright and affectionate, the Dachshund is a wonderful, loyal pet

For more infotmation on the Westminster Dog Show visit, www.westminsterkennelclub.org.

VIDEO AND MORE PICTURES AFTER THE JUMP...