Savannah Wiener Dog Races

Get ready for the cutest competition of the year! The 2025 Savannah Wiener Dog Races are hitting the track on Saturday, October 11, at the vibrant Plant Riverside District, presented in partnership with Savannah’s Waterfront. Watch these spirited dachshunds dash for glory in a fun-filled event the whole family will love.

It’s more than just a race – proceeds support Savannah’s Waterfront, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving the rich history, enhancing the beauty, and promoting business collaboration along our historic riverfront. Join us for tail-wagging excitement and help make a difference in the heart of Savannah!

Race Details
Races begin at 11:00 a.m. in Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, 400 West River Street.

Registration/check-in opens at 9:00am and will close at 10:45am or when all heats are filled.

Entry fee is $25.00. New this year – Savannah Wiener Dog Races T-Shirts! Pre-order when registering.

Dogs will be grouped by weight. Weight classes are up to 7 lbs, 8 – 14 lbs, and 15 lbs and over. Dogs must be 25 lbs or less to participate.

Fastest run certificates will be given to the winners of each heat. Then the winners of each heat will compete in a final race for the grand prize!

The grand prize winner will receive a special trophy as well as a 2-night stay certificate from the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District.

Judges determine the winner of each race. Ruling of judges is final.

Official line judges will determine the winning dog in each heat.

Dachshund-mix dogs may race in our special “Almost A Wiener” heat, but are ineligible for the grand prize trophy run.

In addition to the races, there will be a Doggy Parade and Costume Contest! Best dressed dogs and their owners will compete for first, second and third place prizes. Registration is free for the costume contest.

Savannah Wiener Dog Races T-shirts available for $25 each. Pre-order with your race registration.

Participation Rules
All owners must submit current rabies vaccination record for their dogs.

All racing dogs must be accompanied by 2 people: Owner and assistant to be of service to dog at starting gate and finish line. Owners may coax runners with toys, chews or verbal cues. No dog whistles, balloons or breakable items are allowed.

Dogs must be on leash at all times except while racing. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dog. Relief areas will be available with plastic bags, should you forget to bring your own. Water will be available for dogs.

All owners must sign a media release, as well as a consent waiver releasing all organizing parties and others from all liabilities associated with canines interacting with other canines and people. Savannah’s Waterfront and Plant Riverside District are not responsible for any injuries, human or canine, emotional or physical. Please consider the demeanor of your dog before deciding to participate in the races. If your dog is not friendly toward kids or other dogs, please do not participate in this event. We want happy hounds and humans!

Owners will be responsible for bringing participants to the staging area when their heat is called.

Owners and assistants are not permitted on the race course until announced for their race.

All participating dachshunds must be registered and/or checked in before 10:45AM on race day.