We were thrilled to host Westminster Dog of the Year 2025 back in September.
Since its launch in 1992, this much-loved event has provided a platform for The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust to collaborate with dog loving parliamentarians, spotlighting those who champion canine welfare and raise important dog related issues in Parliament.
More than just a competition, Westminster Dog of the Year celebrates the special relationship between dogs and their owners. It also offers Members of Parliament a chance to showcase their work in promoting responsible dog ownership and improving the lives of dogs, no matter their ‘pawlitical’ party!
2025 results
The winner of Westminster Dog of the Year 2025 was Poykee and Sarah Edwards MP.
The runners-up were Mabel and Becky Gittins MP in second place and office dog Lucy with Andrew Snowden MP in third place
The Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote winner was Guide Dog, Jennie, owned by Steve Darling MP.
Message from Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust
Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, explains: "The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is so much more than a canine beauty pageant. The competition is strictly apolitical; judges will be looking for the dogs' good deeds and devotion to their owner rather than policies or opinions. It is a fun filled day out with an important message at its core – helping to promote dog welfare issues and encourage responsible ownership.”
Message from Jannine Edgar, Chief Executive of The Kennel Club
Jannine Edgar, Chief Executive of The Kennel Club said: “Westminster Dog of the Year celebrates the strong bond between politicians and their dogs, and highlights the vital role that our four-legged-friends play within the family, offering companionship and unconditional love. While the competition is a fun and light-hearted event, it also provides an important platform to raise awareness of the actions that need to be taken to promote responsible dog ownership.”
More about why we run this event
The media are invited to attend as politicians showcase their beloved dogs and shine a spotlight on key issues affecting canine welfare. Over the years, the event has raised awareness around vital topics such as the impact of fireworks on dogs, the importance of training and socialisation, and the need to protect access to public spaces for dog walkers across the UK.
As part of the fun, MPs rally support from the public in a bid to win the hearts and votes of dog lovers. Alongside the ‘pawblic’ vote, a panel of judges will assess each canine contender on their heroic deeds and charming personalities before naming the overall winner.
The Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote Award
Returning this year is the Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote Award, presented to the MP whose dog receives the most public votes. This special honour is named in memory of the late Sir David Amess MP, a devoted supporter of the competition and lifelong campaigner for dog welfare.