See Spot Run: Local Races Where Dogs Are Welcome

It’s time to grab life by the leash and head outdoors with the family’s best friend because the District has some fun run’s planned this fall that even Fido can join in. Whether you have a serious runner in your clan or just a couple of lazy day joggers or walkers it doesn’t matter because there is a race for everyone–with two legs…or four.

Photo: Terri Grigsby via flickr

The Weiner 500 Dachshund Dash
On your mark, (just don’t really mark it, Buster!), get set, go! It’s time for the annual Oktoberfest and Weiner 500 Dachshund Dash to benefit the Washington Humane Society. All breeds are welcome to watch this Dachshund-only or Dachshund-dominant race where our furry friends shine and steal the spotlight. Costume contests for all dogs let them show off their tricks and get a little run or walk in at this fun, family-friendly event.

When: Sept. 26, 1 pm-5 pm
Yards Park
355 Water St., SE
Online: ontap.com

Photo: Jason Kositarut via flickr

D.C. Walk for the Animals
What better way to teach the tiny tykes responsibility and community involvement than getting them excited and into the annual DC Walk for the Animals. Geared for all ages and breeds this event has games, prizes, musical sits, face painting for the non-four-legged friends and doggie pools for the family pet to cool off in after the morning walk. It’s a great time for the whole family unit to get outside and get active while helping out a good cause.

When: Sept. 26, 10 am-2 pm
Where: Kingsbury Center
5000 14th St., NW
Online: DCWalkfortheAnimals.com

Photo: rcannon100 via flickr

Strut Your Mutt
Raise money for your local animal welfare group or for Best Friends Animal Society to help Save Them All by walking with your mutt and strutting your stuff or taking part in the 5k (with dog or without) run. The annual event has photos, contests, goodies and much more for the little ones, big kids and our fluffy, furry companions that we just can’t live without. Show them you care by taking a walk.

When: October 10, (5k at 10 am, Walk at 10:30 am, Festival ends at 2PM)
Black Hill Regional Park
20930 Lake Ridge Dr. (Boyds, Md)
Online: Bestfriends.org

Photo: Peter Mooney via flickr

Doggie Fun Run
Everyone loves to run in Rock Creek Park with its shaded paths full of abundant trees and scenery. The Doggie Fun Run at Rock Creek Part this November 1^st is a great way to get outdoors and do something active with the whole family. The challenging course has some steep hills that four-legged buddies will enjoy while keeping pace with their owners. This 5k course after the Doggie Fun Run will get tongues wagging too and not just about the opportunity for costumes for you and your tail-wagging buddy. Just don’t forget to bring along a doggie “disposal” bag to keep the other runners and park patrons happy. No messy dogs allowed on this run/walk.

When: Nov. 1 (Doggie Fun Run at 8 am, 5k Dash at 8:30 am)
Rock Creek Park
16^th and Kennedy Sts., NW
Online: capitalsprints.com

Is there a particular race that you like your pooch to tag along to? Tell us in the comments section. 

—Victoria Mason