Wendell the Giant Dachshund

Will Wendell Find Someone To Love Him?

In a village filled with picture-perfect homes and playful pets, Wendell stands out – literally.

He's a giant dachshund, and his size has always made him feel like he doesn't belong. But Wendell isn't interested in being just another show dog; he wants a real friend and a family who will love him, flaws and all.

Will Wendell find someone to love him and become his forever family? And will Wendell learn to accept himself just as he is?

Meet Our Dachshund Family

Wendell The Giant Dachshund

Wendell is a giant, wiggly dachshund, much bigger than most. While many dachshunds are the size of a loaf of bread, Wendell is more like a squishy furry watermelon.

Standard dachshunds like Wendell are rare in the United States, and his story began when his mom traveled all the way from Europe.

When he was a puppy, a little white stripe appeared on his nose like a surprise sticker, and it has been part of his charm ever since.

Wendell is gentle, loving, and full of energy. He enjoys belly rubs, zoomies in the snow, and long cuddles with his family. He never says no to food and loves sharing snacks and adventures with CJ and Melodie.

Wendell is a loyal friend with a big heart, and he always finds a way to make the people around him feel loved.

Wendell loves having a puppy sister to play with, run with, and explore the world with. He also loves the extra cuddles that come with being a big brother.

Playing in the snow with Melodie is one of his favorite things about having a sister. Melodie loves the snow as much as Wendell.

Wendell says Be Brave. Be Kind. Be You.

Melodie The Friendly Dachshund

Melodie was adopted from a foster group after being rescued from a very scary home, and she quickly learned she was finally safe.

She is a Shaded Red Standard Dachshund. Not as giant as Wendell, but still a very big dachshund with a huge spirit.

She is tough, energetic, and loves to play with Wendell. Their games of chase are fast like lightning.

Melodie has an incredible nose for exploring and never turns down a chance to sniff out something new.

She loves her dog toys, especially when she can show them off with a proud little prance.

Meeting new people is one of her favorite things. She climbs into laps for kisses and sometimes gives tiny, silly puppy nibbles on faces.

She adores cuddling with CJ and Wendell, and some of her happiest moments are when the kittens curl up beside her.

Melodie brings joy and courage everywhere she goes, and she always finds a way to make new friends on her adventures.

Our Story

The Beginning Of Wendell's Journey

Wendell the Giant Dachshund began as more than just a story—it was inspired by real-life moments of love, self-discovery, and embracing what makes us unique. When we first met Wendell, we knew he was special. He was bigger than most dachshunds, and at first, that made him stand out in a way that wasn't always easy. But as we got to know him, we realized that the very thing that made him different was exactly what made him extraordinary.

From Inspiration to Book

Wendell’s journey of self-acceptance became the heart of our book, Wendell the Giant Dachshund Finds His Family. Through his adventures, he learns that being different isn’t something to be ashamed of—it’s something to celebrate. His story isn’t just about a dog finding a home; it’s about anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t belong, reminding them that they are perfect just as they are.

Lessons From Wendell

At the core of Wendell's story are values we hold close:

🐾 Embrace Who You Are

Just like Wendell, we all have something unique to offer the world. The things that make us different make us special.

🐾 Consider The Source

When facing unkind words, we remind kids (and adults!) to ask: Is this coming from someone who loves me? Is it meant to help me? If not, it’s not worth believing.

🐾 The 5-Second Rule of Kindness

Before commenting on someone’s appearance, ask yourself: Is this something they can change in five seconds? If not, it’s better left unsaid.

🐾 You are Loved

Wendell wants everyone to know that they are valuable, worthy, and loved—exactly as they are.

More Than a Story— A Movement

Wendell the Giant Dachshund is more than a book series; it’s a mission to teach kindness, confidence, and self-love to children everywhere. We want every reader to walk away knowing that their differences are their strengths and that kindness has the power to change the world.

Through books, community outreach, and meaningful conversations, Wendell’s journey continues. And we’re so grateful you’re here to be part of it.

Be Brave. Be Kind. Be You.

Wendell The Giant Dachshund

Programs For Schools & Organizations

From STEM curriculum to character development presentations, we bring hands-on growing education and life skills training directly to your classrooms and teams. Our programs combine food security education with social emotional learning that creates lasting impact.

Education That Grows With Your Students

Programs For Schools & Organizations

Connect With Us

Whether you need educational resources, want to book a speaking event, or are curious about our AI consulting services, we're here to help you succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Growing Questions Answered

Here are some of the most common questions we get, and we're always here to help if you have more!

Yes, let's discuss your specific needs. Also we can do virtual events for a more cost saving approach for schools outside of Ohio.
We focus on anti-bullying, self acceptance, kindness, and confidence. Using Wendell’s story, students learn practical lessons like the 5 Second Rule of Kindness and how being different can be a strength.
For Central Ohio schools, we waive speaking fees and organize a simple book preorder before the event so the school has no additional out of pocket costs. Submit the contact form and we will guide you through the process.
Each visit is customized to the school’s needs. Many schools host a student assembly where we share Wendell’s story and talk about kindness, confidence, and being comfortable being yourself. Some schools read the books with their classes during the week leading up to the event and include related activities or STEM projects inspired by the Wendell The Giant Dachshund series. Students also have the chance to meet and gently interact with Wendell the Giant Dachshund and his sister Melodie the Friendly Dachshund.
Wendell’s story shows children that feeling different is something to embrace. The program turns that message into practical habits around kindness, confidence, and treating others well.
Programs are best suited for Kindergarten through 5th grade, though we can adjust the format for preschool groups or middle school audiences when requested.