When someone says “Heads or Tails” there is usually a risk of losing, but with the Heads and Tails 5K Doggie Dash everyone wins. After all, how can anyone lose with a family and doggie friendly run/walk at Garrison Forest School on an October morning?
The 2025 Heads & Tails 5K Run/Walk & Doggie Dash is The Greater Baltimore Chamber of Commerce’s (GBCC) largest fundraiser of the year, with around 450 runners, volunteers and canine companions expected for this timed race taking place on Sunday, Oct. 19. On-site registration opens at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K begins at 9 a.m.
Adults, kids, and doggies of all fitness levels are invited to participate. Custom drinkware from PrintInk and a signature commemorative 5K coin will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in the following age groups: 12 and under, 13-15, 16-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and older.
Highlights in addition to the race include a Pre-Race Warmup, Doggie Dash, Pet Festival, Vendor Village, Hot Breakfast from Apple Spice, Kid’s Korner, Pug Mug Station, a DJ, and more!
The Doggie Dash kicks off at 10 a.m., where leashed dogs and their humans can run, walk, or jog along a short grassy course at their own pace. The event’s Doggie Dash Mascot will cheer them on. All registered “Dashers” and their dogs will get a race bib, plus all participating dogs will receive a Heads & Tails 5K and Doggie Dash branded doggie bandana. Fun pet prizes also will be awarded to the first, second and third place pups.
The first 300 adult runners will receive shirts/bibbs, as will all Kids 5K participants. Every participant will get bottled water, snacks, breakfast, access to the Vendor Village and Kids Korner, and entry to prize drawings for gift certificates, gift baskets, and more.
Registration information is below:
- $55 Oct. 1-19 (one runner; or one runner plus one dog)
- Kids 5K Registration: $25 – Ages 12 and under
- Doggie Dash Half Mile Registration: $25 through Sept. 30; $35 Oct. 1 through Race Day (one dasher; or one dasher plus one dog)
- Kids Doggie Dash Half Mile Registration: $15 – Ages 12 and under (Kids cotton t-shirt can be purchased during registration for $10.)
Teams of five or more will receive a $5 discount – creative themes are encouraged!
Proceeds from the event support the Greater Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and its mission to support the local business community.
Donors can also raise funds for Reed’s Rescue, an organization rescuing older and/or terminally ill dogs from area shelters. They also rescue dogs who have been given up because their owners are facing difficult circumstances, and dogs in danger of decompensating in the shelter environment. Help Reed’s Rescue by donating via the event’s webpage and even win prizes for reaching various fundraising milestones.
“The Heads & Tails 5K & Doggie Dash has something for everyone—serious runners, casual walkers, dog lovers and families looking for a great way to spend a fun morning,” said Heidi Marie Bell, 5K committee co-chair. “It’s a high-energy, dog-friendly event that brings the community together, supports local business growth through the Greater Baltimore Chamber and gives elderly rescue dogs the love and care they need through Reed’s Rescue. Come out and join us!”
Garrison Forest School is located at 300 Garrison Forest Road in Owings Mills.
