Couple gobsmacked when adopted ‘sausage dog’ becomes another breed

A couple were unable to contain their delight after rescuing what they believed to be a ‘sausage dog’ from a shelter – only to discover a surprising twist several months down the line.

In anticipation of their new arrival, they purchased their dachshund, Mochi, a suitably sized bed, collar and toys, eager for her to settle in with her own belongings throughout the home.

However, as the months passed and their affection for her deepened, they began to sense something wasn’t quite right with their petite pooch.

In footage shared on Instagram, the account @dogsofdancr captured the moment the couple finally realised what had truly transpired when they brought her home all those months ago.

The caption states: “We thought she was a weenie dog. We had decided to go to the pound to look for dogs. We knew we needed a small one and she just sat there sweet and quiet, and she looked just like a weenie dog puppy.”

Yet the footage reveals Mochi, now fully mature, to be considerably larger than a sausage dog, with the owner noting: “Little did we know we got this gorgeous grown-up baby girl dog.”

It is believed Mochi is in fact a crossbreed – though without a DNA test, her precise breed combination remains unknown.

Responding to the footage, one user remarked: “She’s long but not in proportion to be a ween. Head shape, tail and legs are way too different. Sorry but I didn’t see it.”

Another user commented: “She is adorable, and whoever adopted her is very lucky. I’m a cat lady, and for the last five minutes I cannot stop smiling.”

Research from the RVC has challenged the widespread assumption that crossbreed dogs are healthier than their pedigree counterparts.

Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the RVC and senior author of the paper, said: “The popularity of designer crossbreeds, particularly Poodle crosses, has boomed over the past decade in the UK.

“With cute, teddy bear-like features, their aesthetic appeal to many households is clear.

“However, our previous research discovered that many are purchased based on assumed characteristics that are not well evidenced, such as perceptions they are hypoallergenic, good with children and have good health.”

She added: “This study has demonstrated that although the health of designer Poodle crosses is no worse than their parent breeds’, it is also no better.

“This means that owners should still be strongly focused on purchasing from breeders who prioritise health and temperament over looks in their breeding decisions, and not assume their puppy will automatically be healthy due to being a crossbreed.

“Prospective owners should be extremely mindful that the popularity of Poodle crosses means they are at high risk of coming from poor welfare sources such as puppy farms and illegal imports to meet this demand, which could negatively influence their future health and welfare.”