Type of Dogs With Short Legs

Lots of smaller dog breeds have proportionally short legs, but certain breeds, both large and small, sport disproportionately short legs. These vertically challenged pups all share an extra gene. The National Human Genome Research Institute traces the genetic mutation responsible for short-legged breeds back to when modern dog breeding began 300 years ago.

  1. Basset Hound

    • Originally bred in France to assist small game hunters, the basset hounds has a keen sense of smell and strong hunting instincts Though he weighs upwards of 50 pounds, a basset hound does not exceed 14 inches tall at the shoulder; his body is long and sturdy like a submarine, while his short legs keep him close to the ground.

    Dachshund

    • Dachshunds are one of the most well -known short-legged breeds. The miniature variety weighs less than 11 pounds and stands 5 to 6 inches at the shoulder, while the standard variety weighs between 18 and 32 pounds and measures 8 to 9 inches ̶0;tall̶1; at the shoulder. Both varieties feature shortened legs. Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany for their tenacity and determination in flushing out pests and small vermin.

    Corgis

    • Corgi is a general term used to describe two canine breeds: the Pembroke Welsh corgi and the Cardigan Welsh corgi. Originally bred as farm dogs and cattle herders, the easiest way to differentiate the lookalike breeds is by their tails, or lack thereof. Pembroke Welsh corgis are tailless while Cardigan Welsh corgis sport long, fluffy tails. Sturdy and strong, corgis won̵7;t be swinging from the trees with a height of 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder and a weight between 25 and 38 pounds.

    Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

    • A wiry-coated, medium-sized breed with a short stature, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is a French scenthound whose prized game is rabbit. He weighs between 25 and 42 pounds and measures 13 to 15 inches at the shoulder. A fairly recent addition to the AKC, the American Kennel Club officially recognized this breed in 1991.

    Terriers

    • The short-legged Scottish terriers, the Scottish, Skye, cairn, Dandie Dinmont and West Highland white terriers were first bred for their small-game hunting skills. Standing less than 12 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 25 pounds or less, these terriers with elongated bodies and short legs are perfect for those who appreciate a clever nature and inquisitive spirit.