Photos: Wiener Dog and Small Dog Races ‣ Hardly Raining

2026-08-23 Hardly Raining

The annual Wiener Dog and Small Dog Races returned to Emerald Downs on August 23, 2026. In a tense photo-finish, Wiener Dog finalist “Pete” (trained by Sheri Runyon of Hoquiam) beat out “Frank E Furter” by a narrow white muzzle. In the Wannabe category—for other small dogs under 20 pounds—2025 champion “Arlo the Long Boi” (trained by Jamie Jensen of Auburn) successfully defended his title.

Wiener-Dog champion "Pete," looking sleepy after his win. (photo: Lisa Hagen Glynn) — Wiener-Dog champion “Pete,” looking sleepy after his win.

Wannabe champion "Arlo the Long Boi" and family. (photo: Lisa Hagen Glynn) — Wannabe champion “Arlo the Long Boi” and family.

Crowd favorite “Mary Poopins,” who uses a wheeled cart, competed again this year. Poopins’ trainers (Dave and Brenda Sizer) maintain a social-media account that advocates for animals with disabilities.