Although short legs are normal for these breeds it is basically the result of abnormal development of cartilage. (dachshund-owner-guide.com)
For instance, bigger canines apparently suffer from cancer more often, which could make sense; large dogs grow more than smaller breeds do, and cancer is rooted in abnormal cell growth. (mnn.com)
If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, you should know that cancer is a disease caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the body. (olddominionanimalhospital.com)