BEND, OR -- The fur will fly in downtown Bend Sunday. After a three-year pause, the Wiener Dog Races return, along with the first ever Running of the Bulldogs. “The Wiener dog races are back! Dachshunds have long bodies and little tiny short legs to run on. And then the Bulldogs are just kind of machines that really weren't meant to run. We're adding the Running of the Bulldogs and that includes watching those amazing English bulldogs with their lips flapping, as well as the French bulldogs racing down the track,”

The Humane Society’s Lynne Ouchida says the race that started as a Bend Oktoberfest event has been a long-time crowd pleaser. “A perfect event for anybody who loves dogs. I don't care if you're a small breed lover, medium or large or even giant breed lover, you will find something fun to be entertained with by these races,” adding they’re for a good cause, “100% of the registration fees go directly to help the animals in our care and spectators are free. But of course, we'd love it if you can help fill our empty shelves of dog treats, or even just a couple of dollars will go a long way to helping the animals at the Humane Society.”

She says the course is about 75 feet long, “So not too long. Of course, these breeds should not be running for extended lengths. You can line up along the edge and cheer on your favorite dog or your favorite breed. It'll be, I guarantee, an afternoon of laughs.”

The Running of the Bulldogs starts at Noon; Wiener Dog Races begin at 1 PM. 

Competitors must be pure bred Bull dogs and Dachshunds, respectively.

Online registration ($20) closes Saturday, September 30th at noon. Late registration ($25) on Sunday, October 1 is from 11am to noon at Troy Field before the races.