Toby wriggled as Kiki brushed his fur. ​​

“Hold still, Toby!” Kiki said. “You need to look handsome. Today’s a big day!”​

It was a big day for Toby. Today was the annual Oktoberfest celebration at the community center. There would be German food, songs, and dances. And, best of all for Toby, there would be a Dachshund race!​

Toby was proud to be a Dachshund. Some people called him a hot-dog dog. He didn’t mind that. Hot-dogs were tasty! In fact, they were Toby’s favorite snack. Kiki used hot-dog pieces to train Toby to run fast. He was ready to win the race!​​

While Kiki brushed Toby’s fur, Mom brushed Kiki’s hair. She braided it with ribbons for her dance costume. It was a big day for Kiki too.​

Finally, the family was ready. Mom loaded them all into the car and they were off. When they got to the community center, Toby could smell all kinds of smells. Pretzels, mustard, schnitzel, and sauerkraut. Mmmm!​

Kiki’s dance was first. Toby sat with Mom while Kiki went on stage with the other kids. She smiled and waved at Toby, and he wagged his tail. The music started and Kiki twirled. Her skirt spun out around her like a pinwheel.​

After the dancing, they walked to the racing field. Kiki gave Toby one last brush and a big hug. Then she pinned a number to his collar, and he panted with pride. ​

Kiki and Mom sat on the sidelines. Toby was lined up next to the other dogs. He had never seen so many Dachshunds in one place before! ​

​“Ready, set, go!” Toby ran as fast as he could. He pictured hot-dogs at the finish line. His little legs churned as he headed down the field.​

Toby crossed the line first. He was tired but happy. Kiki ran over and he jumped in her arms. Mom was there too, petting his ears.​

“Yay, Toby!” Kiki said. She gave him a hot-dog as a reward. It was a good reward, but the best reward was the smiles on the faces of his family. What a day!​