For nearly twenty years, the wire-haired dachshunds have been a part of my life. I couldn't live without them, as I am amazed by their independence of character, their sense of loyalty, the expression of their tender attachment, and their incredible whimsy.

They are now the true kings of the Royal and Military College of Thiron-Gardais, making the garden and the woods their jealously guarded playground... even if they agree to share it with the public. Visitors often tell me that they are touched to see in the rose garden the gravestones of the dogs who accompanied me over the years, Virgule and Dash, who remain close to me, just as they do in my heart.

I must admit, somewhat in a British manner, that my true affection for these four-legged companions also manifests itself in an - overwhelming - collection of mugs, watercolors, dishes, coasters, drawings... This passion for wire-haired dachshunds, and all dogs in general, should soon give rise to a range of "Royal College" products dedicated to my dear companions Mirza and Scoop, such as bowls or collars. For now, I am happy to celebrate my dachshunds by creating colorful socks, an idea that came to me while admiring the socks featuring the corgis of the late Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. My dachshunds are also kings!