The Velcro dog: Long, low and full of heart

Active Amber loves to run and to visit the ducks at Rover’s Run at Red Stone Park in Highlands Ranch.
Amber is a fascinating mixed breed, a 10-year-old mashup of Labrador retriever and dachshund or what is called a “dachsador.”
With a long body, low belly, short legs and a slight deformity to her front leg she was born with, Amber is perfect in her own way. At 35 pounds, she leans more towards a lab than dachshund in head shape, with a soft golden coat, gentle amber eyes and a heart that glows from within.
Amber’s mom Emerald is 100% dachshund and was found pregnant wandering the streets of Texas. Amber joined Jill Vick and her then young children Lauren, Catie and Curran in December 2015 thanks to their math tutor, who was also a rescue caregiver for the Wyoming Dachshund and Corgi Rescue. The rescue takes dachshunds, corgis and mixes of each from owner surrenders, strays and shelters from Texas, Colorado and Wyoming. The caregiver selected an 8-week-old puppy named Amber for Jill not knowing the significant meaning the new pet would have in Jill’s life.
Jill’s mom, who had passed away not long before, had gifted her with amber jewelry and amber-colored artwork. The earthy, warm stone has a reputation for healing and protection. When first introduced to the dog, it was not just love at first sight; it felt a little more meaningful to Jill. “Amber is a beautiful, affectionate dog who got me through difficult times. She was always there and was good support,” said Jill.
While the story of Emerald and her litter is unknown, the Dachsador is a relatively recent hybrid breed that emerged during the late 20th century. By crossing Dachshunds and Labradors, breeders intended to blend the Labrador’s friendly nature and intelligence with the Dachshund’s lively spirit and compact size.
Dachsadors are wonderful companions that are increasing in popularity. Known for their energetic and playful personality, they are a combination of the best qualities of both parent breeds. Dachsadors inherit the dachshund’s unique body shape and hunting instincts while gaining the labrador’s sweet and eager to please personality, especially with young children. When not active, they are mild mannered and cuddlers. Dachsadors are not known for excessive barking and are generally welcoming to strangers.
Dachsund means “badger dog” in German. Just as dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers in small underground tunnels, Amber loves to burrow in blankets. She does not let her bad leg stop her. She enjoys her walks at The Retreat Park, watching the ducks at Rover’s Run at Red Stone Park and racing Jill up the stairs. She is trusting and will sit in anyone’s lap. “Amber is the Velcro doggie who will always stay by your side,” said Jill.

“Velcro doggie” Amber snuggles in Jill Vick’s lap on the outside patio of The Exchange Coffee House.

Lauren Vick, then age 12, with Amber and her cuteness at 8 weeks old.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Jill Vick