Currently, there are only a few operational dog racing tracks, primarily located in Florida, West Virginia, and Arkansas. However, its popularity has significantly declined over the years. Today, dog racing is still taking place in a handful of states in the United States. The Current State of Dog Racing in the United States From there, the popularity of dog racing spread rapidly, with tracks opening in states such as Florida, Texas, and New York. The first professional dog racing track in the United States opened in California in 1919. The sport gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, with tracks being established across the country. Dog Racing in the United States: A Historical Perspectiveĭog racing has a long and storied history in the United States, dating back to the early 20th century.