Each year, Dachshund Adoption Rescue and Education (DARE) partners with Florida Wiener Dog Derby to host our annual wiener dog races at Doxapalooza. And here’s the best part — it’s not just for purebred dachshunds! Dachshund mixes and small dogs under 35 lbs can join in the fun, too.

Race heats are determined by sign-up, but space is limited. Heats you MAY see at Doxapalooza include:

• Dachshund Puppies
• Dachshund Young Adults
• Dachshund Adults
• Dachshund Seniors
• Cart Dogs
• Special Needs Dogs
• Dachshund Mixes
• Other Small Dogs (under 35 lbs)

Get ready for the best dog chase game ever! At Doxapalooza, your pup can experience the thrill of lure coursing — a safe, fast-paced chase game that’s just as exciting for spectators as it is for the dogs. DARE is proud to partner with…

SwiftPaws creates innovative, easy-to-use at-home lure coursing systems that bring out your dog’s natural chase instinct in a safe and enriching way.

Courteous Canine is a top-rated Tampa dog training company offering classes in basic obedience, agility, lure coursing, and dock diving.

Let your dog give it a try at our dog-friendly Florida event. All dogs are welcome — from small dachshunds to large breeds, every pup can join the fun!

Q: How much time will my pet have on the course?

A: In a single-play session, your pup will have up to two minutes to run the course twice.

Q: Can my pet run the course more than once?

A: Yes! If your pup enjoys the course, additional play sessions will be available for purchase, subject to lure course availability. Please be sure to give your pup plenty of rest in between play sessions.

Q: Will I get to be on the course with my pet?

A: Yes! Owners must be on the course with their pup. Once on the course, you will keep your pup leashed until the lure operator instructs you to remove the leash so the play session can begin.

Q: Is the speed adjustable?

A: Yes. The speed can be adjusted to meet the needs and abilities of your pet. Our professional lure course operator will do just that as your pet runs the course at Doxapalooza.

Q: What if my pet trips on the line or grabs the lure?

A: SwiftPaw’s system is set up to sense if there is a disturbance to the system (ie: your pet steps on the line or grabs the flag) it will automatically cut power when it senses this.

It’s time to unleash your pup’s style! One of the most popular events at Doxapalooza is our annual dog costume contest, where dogs and their humans hit the runway in their most creative outfits.

Whether you dress for this year’s theme or create your own unique look, we can’t wait to see your imagination at work. You might even break into song as you strut your stuff — because anything can happen at Florida’s biggest dachshund festival!

Bring your best outfit, your biggest smile, and get ready for applause, tail wags, and some amazing photo ops. All dogs are welcome!

Does your dog love giving kisses? Then this is the event for you! At Doxapalooza, our dog kissing contest is all about showing affection — the pup that gives their human the most kisses in the set timeframe will take home the win (and bragging rights).

So get ready to pucker up — your dog might just be crowned Best Kisser at Doxapalooza! All dogs are welcome — dachshunds, dachshund mixes, and pups of every size and breed.

Capture the magic of Doxapalooza with a professional mini pet photo session with a themed background in the beautiful Keel Farms gazebo. This is your chance to get high-quality portraits of your pup (and you!) to remember the day forever.

What’s Included:

• Mini photo shoot in Keel Farms’ gazebo
• Digital photos perfect for sharing on social media — included in your session fee
• Option to purchase high-resolution images and prints for just $10 each

All photos will be posted online after the event, so you can view, share, and select your favorites.

One of the best parts of Doxapalooza is our vibrant vendor market, filled with small businesses, pet-focused brands, and unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.

From dachshund-themed goodies and handmade crafts to treats, accessories, and must-haves for you and your pup, there’s something for everyone to discover.

Be sure to check out our full vendor lineup and plan your must-visit booths!

A longtime favorite at Keel Farms’ Sangria Nights and festivals, Sisimito serves up flavorful Mexican-inspired favorites straight from the farm’s food truck. Bring your appetite and grab something delicious while you enjoy a full day of Doxapalooza fun!

Sample Menu ==>

Cool off and relax at The Backyard Bar, where you can sip on beer and wine crafted right here at Keel Farms. Don’t forget to grab your commemorative Doxapalooza wine or beer glass — the Backyard Bar will gladly fill it with a standard pour of your favorite drink.

Want to enjoy a sit-down meal? The Keel Farms Patio and Tasting Room will be open during Doxapalooza, serving their famous upscale pub-style dishes and fresh beverages. The patio is now air-conditioned year-round for comfort — but if it’s one of those perfect Florida fall days, the space can be opened up to let in fresh country breezes.

Please note: Dogs are welcome only on the patio, making it the ideal spot for a relaxing, dog-friendly lunch.

Things can get busy, so reservations are recommended.