Weiner dog running has come a long way from its backyard beginnings. The sport was first formalized in the 1970s, with the first national championship held in 1974.
The first national championship was a small affair, with only a handful of participants. However, it marked the beginning of a new era for weiner dog racing.
Weiner dogs are naturally suited to racing due to their short legs and long bodies. This unique physiology allows them to reach high speeds, making them ideal competitors.
In fact, some weiner dogs can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.
Training and Preparation
Training for a wiener dog to run requires a gradual build-up of endurance. Start with short, 10-minute jogs, three times a week, to prevent overexertion.
As you progress, increase the duration by 5 minutes every week, allowing your dog's cardiovascular system to adapt. This will help prevent overexertion and reduce the risk of injury.
Before each run, ensure your wiener dog has had a nutritious meal and plenty of water to avoid stomach upset. A well-balanced diet, rich in protein and complex carbohydrates, will provide the necessary energy for your dog's runs.
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Becoming the Fastest Dachshund
To become the fastest Dachshund, it's essential to start by joining a kennel club, like the Burlington County Kennel Club, and obtaining AKC/PAL numbers. This will give you access to AKC performance events.
Getting your Dachshund accustomed to running is crucial. In 2016, the author's Dachshund, Nugget, ran the 300-yard CAT course like a pro and earned his CA title.
You can also introduce your Dachshund to Fast CAT, which involves chasing a lure over a 100-yard course. Nugget was a natural and finished 2nd nationally for Dachshunds in 2017.
To achieve top times, your Dachshund needs to be in top physical condition. Nugget's top times ranged from 21.8 to 22.17 mph.
Dachshund Household
I've had the pleasure of knowing a household with an impressive number of Dachshunds, and it's a great example of what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.
Nugget, the star of the show, has earned over 30 titles in various dog sports, including obedience, Rally, dock diving, agility, and tracking.
Their household is now home to 11 Dachshunds, with Nugget being the only smooth one, and two terrier mixes that rule the small barn by the house.
Everyone in the household has been trained to participate in multiple sports, with impressive results, including master and senior Earthdog, Master Rally legs, 6 TD titles, and 5 CD titles.
It's worth noting that the Dachshunds in this household have all earned Fast CAT titles, with three just earning BCAT and four earning DCAT.
Racing and Events
Wiener dogs are natural-born athletes, and their short stature and long bodies make them well-suited for racing.
In fact, some wiener dogs can run up to 25 miles per hour, which is impressive considering their size.
Their short legs may make them look slow, but they can accelerate quickly and reach high speeds in a short distance.
Wiener dogs have competed in various racing events, including the annual Wiener Dog Racing World Championships, where the fastest dog wins a year's supply of hot dogs.
These events are often held for fun and to raise money for charity, and they're a great way to see wiener dogs in action.
Watch Nugget
Watch Nugget, the country's fastest Dachshund, is a canine athlete you won't want to miss. He'll be running against the clock to beat out the nation's other speedy canines.
The event takes place in Orlando at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. This is a unique opportunity to see Watch Nugget in action.
Tune into ESPN2 at 12 p.m. ET on December 25 to enjoy the fun. Don't miss out on the excitement of watching Watch Nugget compete.
Races in Vergas
Vergas hosts several exciting racing events throughout the year. The city is home to the Vergas Speedway, a 3/8-mile dirt track that hosts stock car racing events.
The Vergas Speedway is known for its fast-paced action and close competition. It's a popular destination for racing fans in the region.
The speedway has a long history, dating back to the 1950s. It has been a staple of the local racing scene for over 60 years.
The track's unique layout and surface make it a challenging and exciting place to watch or compete in a race.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Dachshunds hop when they run?
Dachshunds may exhibit a hopping gait when running due to a common condition called patellar luxation, where the knee cap slips out of place. This can cause them to "skip" or "hop" to get it back into place.
Are Wiener dogs athletic?
Yes, Dachshunds are surprisingly athletic, despite their tendency to gain weight. They require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy
Can Weiner dogs go on long walks?
While Dachshunds can walk about 1 mile without issue, their exercise needs vary, and a veterinarian's guidance is recommended to determine safe walking distances for your individual dog. Consult a vet to ensure your Weiner dog's walks are enjoyable and healthy.
Sources
- AKC Weekly Winners (akcwinners.com)
- world-famous ultra running weiner dog (trailrunnermag.com)
- Wiener Dog races to be run in Vergas (dl-online.com)
- How Fast Can a Dachshund Run [Everything You Need to ... (medium.com)
- Melbourne holds first ever Sausage dog running race (dailymail.co.uk)
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