An adorable dachshund duo who love getting their teeth into their work
There’s a treat in store for Lorna Cowan this month when she meets Rudy and Louis, two miniature dachshunds who are pet food taste testers.
FOR many, one of life’s greatest pleasures is trying new recipes and sampling different delicious dishes. Aromas, flavours, enticing ingredients – even thinking about good food is enough to make your mouth water.
Imagine if your job involved giving your opinion on new, tasty products. This dream is a reality for two miniature long-haired dachshunds called Rudy and Louis.
Working for Pets Choice, a UK pet food manufacturer, they have the enviable task (among other dogs, at least) of being taste testers.
Pet owner Camille Ashford, who lives in Lancashire, explains.
“Rudy and Louis act as taste testers for any new innovations that Pets Choice develop. We receive samples of the products and the boys simply give their verdict.
“They aren’t the type of dogs to wolf down just anything, so if they seem to like it, I’d say the food definitely has got legs.”
Five-year-old Rudy and nine-yearold Louis regularly give their expert opinion on new food and flavours.
“Whenever we get a visit from someone from Pets Choice, they come bearing gifts and treats, so the boys are always super excited.
“Both dogs are often found rummaging in any bags brought along.”
Pets Choice, who create an array of different wet and dry pet food products and treats, welcome all feedback.
“We tell them about the dogs’ reactions, whether the treat was accepted, whether it was wolfed down or just sniffed at and, of course, when
a product is point blank refused,” Camille continues.
“We also give feedback on the size of the treat and whether the dogs struggled with the texture or if they were eager for more. I can also give my opinion on how the treat looks and smells.”
Rudy and Louis are usually given a few treats throughout the morning, and any main meal to be tested will take the place of their dinner.
“We switch food gradually, so we don’t upset their tummies.
“As you can imagine, the dogs thoroughly enjoy their important role, but we always make sure they don’t get overfed.
“Our dogs have to remain healthy, but at the moment they are scoffing down Webbox Natural dry food. They love the turkey with wholegrains and vegetables flavour.
“That said, they’re also partial to Webbox Natural chicken, too, which comes with sweet potato, green beans and red pepper for extra deliciousness.”
When not patiently waiting to see what’s been put in their food bowls in the kitchen, both dogs like to play outside.
“Rudy appears to be chilled out and he loves to nap, but there’s one word that can turn him into a turbo-speed sausage, and that word is ‘squirrel’.
“Even just starting to say the first couple of letters is enough to set him off barking or running into the garden to ensure a squirrel isn’t causing havoc and stealing the birdseed.
“He’s even attempted to climb one of the trees in search of one.”
And what about Louis?
“He just wants to play ball all day every day,” Camille says. “It’s the first thing he thinks about when he wakes up and he never seems to tire.
“Louis is getting on a bit now and has played ball so much that his teeth haven’t fared very well.
“When he was younger he had to get around four teeth removed, then he’s lost more thanks to constantly playing ball. When he smiles, you just see these front fangs.”
The dogs, as you’d expect, are the family’s pride and joy.
“Small dogs have such huge personalities, and Rudy and Louis love each other so much.
“They are for ever stopping what they are doing to give each other a quick kiss.” ■