2025 Wienerdog Nationals

Race brackets will be filled on the day of the race as participants check in. 

Heats will be two dogs at a time, while the next two dogs wait by the track. 

One handler will hold their dog at starting line while the other handler will go past the finish line where they will call the dog. 

At the go signal, the handler will release the dog. No assistance from the handler is allowed. 

The first dog to cross the finish line wins. Dog must cross the finish line without assistance from handlers. 

Judges will proclaim the winner of the heat. 

Decision of the judges is final. Any arguing with the judges is grounds for removal from the race. 

Pre-registration grants the ability to compete on race day. It DOES NOT mean automatic entry. The races are capped at 128 dogs. Of the registered dogs, it is a first come first serve basis. 

There is no entry fee. One entry per person. Each dachshund must have 2 handlers for the race. One handler present must be at least 18 or older.

By registering, handlers attest they own the dog or have permission from the dog's owner to enter and handle the dog. 

Check-in time for the event is between 2:00 pm and 3:30 pm at Headwaters Park West. Any dog failing to check in by 3:30 pm may be replaced by an alternate. The event begins at 4:00pm. 

Only dachshund breeds are allowed to compete. 

All dogs must be on a leash except during competition. 

All dogs competing must be up to date on rabies and distemper/parvo (a combined vaccine often abbreviated as DHLPP) shots.  Proof of vaccinations will be required at registration.

Handlers are allowed to bring a toy (or the like) to “tempt” the contestant, but that toy must not intentionally interfere with the performance of the competing contestant. 

Employees of the radio stations, promotional sponsors, and the members of their immediate families are ineligible to participate in this contest. 

Winners are responsible for any prize obligation (taxes, etc.) and must meet all eligibility requirements. 

Participants consent to allow GermanFest Committee of Fort Wayne Inc. the use of their name, voice and or likeness for promotional advertisements for the event with no monetary or other compensation. 

By registering, participants waive any and all claims of liability against GermanFest Committee of Fort Wayne, Inc. for any personal injury or loss, which may occur from participation in the contest or from the use of any prize. 

Winners must be 18 years of age and be able to produce proper identification to claim a prize. The winner is responsible for all taxes, insurance, title and any additional fees. 

No cash or substitute prize will be awarded in lieu of the advertised prize. Prizes are non-transferable. If a winner cannot accept the prize offered, he/she shall forfeit the prize, and another winner will be selected. If a winner does not meet eligibility requirements, another winner will be selected. 

By registering, participants consent to allow organizers of the Wienerdog National to contact them via text message and email. All fees and charges that are incurred will be the responsibility of the participant(s). 

By registering for the Wienerdog Nationals, participants agree to the above rules/agreements, FamilienFest Rules & Etiquette, as well as any additional rules/agreements, which may be implemented.