Wiener Dog Racing Is For Real
Photo by Kojirou Sasaki on Unsplash
First introduced as a parody in a beer commercial, wiener dog races (also known as Dachshund races) have evolved into a serious sporting event with a national championship involving over 100 dogs and attracting a crowd of 10,000.
The competition is limited to dachshunds, a breed of small dogs with long bodies and short legs. Race courses are usually 25 or 50 yards (23 or 46 meters) in length on various surfaces. Multiple heats may be run, with winners advancing to subsequent rounds until a champion is determined.
Usually organized as part of community events, festivals, or fundraisers, most dachshund racing is very informal. Many dogs never really run the course, choosing instead to engage with other dogs or their owner. Food or toys are often used to coax them to the finish line.
The Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals at the Los Alamitos Race Course in Orange County, California, is probably the most prestigious wiener dog event. Held each year in mid-July, it involves with around 100 dachshunds running in 10 trial heats of 50 yards each, with the winning wieners advancing to the championship race.
