Dachshund Racing

The Board of Directors of the Dachshund Club of America, Inc. (“DCA”) first addressed the growing problem of Dachshund racing at Greyhound tracks and in other commercial settings in 1995. The problem arose as a result of a Miller Lite commercial which depicted two racing Dachshunds, and the problem was further compounded when the Miller Brewing Company undertook a public relations campaign sponsoring Dachshund races at Greyhound tracks. DCA was and is greatly troubled by any possibility of an association of Dachshunds with Greyhound tracks, which have historically been related to the mistreatment and the death of thousands of dogs. DCA therefore requested that Miller discontinue sponsoring Dachshund races at any sporting event, and also discontinue any future use of the commercial that depicted them. DCA notified its members of its new policy and counseled its members not to participate in these events.

DCA continues to maintain that racing is bad for the breed by encouraging the breeding of dogs for that purpose rather than as examples of the breed standard recognized by the American Kennel Club. Racing also encourages the misuse of dogs not suited for this activity: Dachshunds are not designed to be a racing breed, but rather to go underground.

Those who wish to participate in performance or companion activities with their Dachshunds are encouraged to pursue activities sponsored by the American Kennel Club such as Earthdog, Field Trials, Rally, Obedience and Agility. These venues all provide opportunities for Dachshunds and their owners to excel at sporting activities without encouraging the exploitation of the breed by those who might not have the best interest of the dogs at heart.

For information about AKC performance and companion events, go to: akc events