In June 2004, the OG Clicks Dog came into my life, Franki a miniature dachshund. If you’re not familiar with the term OG, it’s slang for someone who is incredibly exceptional, authentic, or “old-school”, all of which she certainly is! Franki was a gift to me from my husband who researched local miniature dachshund breeders and ensured, he selected one from a reputable individual versus a puppy mill. I credit her long life to his wise puppy purchasing (and a lot of love).
In the early 2000s, miniature dogs were quite popular. In 2001, the movie Legally Blonde debuted, where lawyer-hopeful Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) played shepherd to a chihuahua by the name of Bruiser. Paris Hilton, at the height of her pop culture relevance was frequently seen in Page Six and on The Simple Life with her teacup chihuahua, Tinker Bell being toted in a purse. This was the catalyst for my carrying Franki in a small black purse-like dog carrier everywhere! Because I started taking her places with me as soon as she was fully vaccinated, she was quickly acclimated to being in public and was very well behaved. It is key to socialize your puppies early on and to this day, I can take her any place and she is quiet, polite and well adjusted.
Another fond experience I have with Franki was launching the Buffalo, NY Dachshund Meet Up Club in the early 2000s. For a year or so, I organized meetups for local dachshund owners, which was another means to socializing my pup. For years later, even after stepping away as the organizer, Franki and I remained members of the Buffalo Dachshund Club and attended annual events that brought numerous wiener dogs together. I know this time in various environments, with numerous dogs, is why she has such a great level of comfort in public places.
As a senior, 16-year-old dog now, Franki still goes out, instead of in her bag or on a leash, now she regularly travels in a doggy stroller. She enjoys walks around the neighborhood and on the Loveland bike trail. At home, Franki is treated regularly to many unique dog enrichment feeder toys and puzzles that keeps her spirits up and her brain exercised. Franki is remarkably close with her sister, Maci, and I think having a younger sibling also has attributed to her long lifespan. I cherish every day with Franki, she is an amazing dog!
If you would like to check out some of my favorite enrichment toys that I use with Franki, visit the Clicks Dog Training Pinterest site.
UPDATE:
RIP sweet Franki
April 24, 2004 - June 27, 2020
