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!
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.
Learn more about each finalist below:
Anna McMorrin MP and Cadi
Becky Gittins MP and Mabel
Learn more about Anna McMorrin MP and Cadi
| Owner’s name: | Anna McMorrin |
| Constituency: | Cardiff North |
| Dog’s name: | Cadi |
| Breed: | Working Cocker Spaniel |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | 7 |
| Colour: | Golden |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Whenever we go for a walk along the beach and inevitably end up swimming in the sea together. Cadi is undoubtedly a water dog. She is always full of life and excited by everything around her but when she’s by the sea it’s almost like the puppy inside her comes alive again. It really is the best thing ever, it makes my heart burst seeing it. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Being an MP and having to travel so frequently isn’t the easiest thing for Cadi to cope with, it disrupts her routine and means I don’t get to spend as much time with her as I’d like. As she’s got older it’s definitely become more important to leave her with someone she enjoys being with. Luckily for the both of us, my daughters are able to look after her mid-week now and I actually think Cadi may prefer them to me anyway! |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | There are too many to pick from over the years, so I'll choose one from the past twelve months: being photographed with Cadi for the Royal Photographic Society's 40% Project, celebrating women MPs in Parliament. Coming home to Cadi after a long, difficult day is such a gift. No matter what, I know I'll be met with unconditional love and a furiously wagging tail. So, it felt only right that she was part of my portrait. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Long walks, sea swims, and door-knocking on the campaign trail. Cadi is magnetic when I take her out campaigning, her infectious energy and boundless joy make her so welcoming that she's opened the door to countless meaningful conversations with people I meet along the way. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Cadi should win Westminster Dog of the Year 2026 because she has more energy than a dog half her age and more fans in Cardiff North than most local celebrities. When I think of her what comes to mind is either her tearing across the beach mid-zoomie episode, diving into the sea for her favourite swim, or simply greeting me like I’ve been gone a year when I just nipped to the shops for some milk. I have no shame in admitting she’s more recognisable in Cardiff North than I am, proof of just how many hearts she's won along the way. Beyond the energy and charm, she offers something simple and meaningful, unconditional love and companionship, and the rare gift of making even the hardest days brighter. |
Learn more about Becky Gittins MP and Mabel
| Owner’s name: | Becky Gittins |
| Constituency: | Clwyd East |
| Dog’s name: | Mabel |
| Breed: | Staffy Cross (rescue so unsure) |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | Approx. 8 |
| Colour: | Brindle |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Mabel is a dog that loves her routines and home comforts. Despite being 22kg, she’s a real lapdog and loves nothing more than sitting on the back of your chair, next to you on the sofa, or (less occasionally than we admit) lying between mum and dad in bed. She never misses a meal and has trained her grandad well to this end. If he has forgotten to bring her a few slices of pork from the local butchers, she will kindly walk him over to the fridge and show him where to find her an alternative snack. Since her human sister started weaning, Mabel has taken to ‘queuing’ at the high-chair at mealtimes, so as not to miss out, and to ‘help’ with any spillages caused by her sister. Mabel is solar powered and spends her summer days oscillating between the garden patio and the cool hallway. Despite splitting her week between London and our home in the constituency, Mabel has identified the key sunbathing locations in both places, with a committed routine of strategic lolloping throughout the day. She loves her woodland walks and goes out daily with her dad. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Mabel is now around 8 years old and it’s been nearly 7 years since our little rescue pup found her forever home with us. Mabel doesn’t seem to have noticed her arthritis, though she does feign a limp when she thinks she’s in trouble! Our twice daily walks are now down to one and our soft furnishings are now much safer in her presence than they once were. On the downside, Mabel is certainly becoming more wily as she gets older and has honed her abilities to avoid taking flea and worming tablets to a Houdini-like skill level. We often think she’s swallowed her tablet and then she’ll spit it out or we’ll find it in a slipper or behind a sofa cushion. Due to my job, travel has become a big part of Mabel’s life as she’s gotten older. Since her baby sister arrived, she’s been promoted to the front passenger seat in the car and has enjoyed being her dad’s copilot and offering him directions when needed. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Mabel was ‘head of wellbeing’ in our house during Covid. We’d only had her for 5 months when we went into lockdown and having us permanently home was all of Mabel’s Christmases come at once. We treasured our daily walks and taught Mabel lots of tricks, including how to press a button which said “feed me treats”. With a rescue dog, all of her ‘firsts’ have been important to us. Her first time at the beach, her first holiday, her first time on a paddleboard and a train have all been memorable and special. Mabel treats every ‘first’ with maximum enthusiasm and is always happy to tag along on an adventure. This year saw the most special memory yet, when Mabel met her baby sister for the first time. Mabel had been very attentive to my ‘bump’ throughout my pregnancy but nothing could’ve prepared us for their first meeting. After an initial sniff, just as she’d spent the last few months leaning against my tummy, she very gently backed up to the tiny baby in my arms until she could feel the baby’s foot on her back. This is something she has repeated lots of times in the months that have followed. Showing why staffies deserve the title of ‘nanny dog’! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Ending the day together on the sofa. Mabel does enjoy the finer things in life: the nice pork her grandad gets her from the butchers, her lovely woodland walks, wrapping up warm in her favourite winter coat when it’s cold; but nothing beats snuggling together on the sofa. Mabel is a world class cuddler and loves nothing more than personal space… everyone else’s personal space, that is! We have a busy life with lots of chaos but that time spent on the sofa as a family is our time to decompress. That epitomises our good life. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Mabel is a great example of what a dog can bring to a family. She had a difficult start to life, having been abandoned in a park as a young pup. We rescued her as a young couple, having just moved into our own house, and we’ve all grown up together. Mabel has taught us so much about compassion, responsibility and never judging a book by its cover … as well as teaching us never to leave snacks unsupervised! Though older and more arthritic than she used to be, Mabel brings enthusiasm to everything she does and is always just happy to be involved, in the mix with her friends and family. We think her joy in the everyday things make her a great example to humans and canine pals alike and we hope would make her a great ambassador if crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026! |
Ben Obese-Jecty MP and Leto
Bobby Dean MP and Chester
Learn more about Ben Obese-Jecty MP and Leto
| Owner’s name: | Ben Obese-Jecty |
| Constituency: | Huntingdon |
| Dog’s name: | Leto |
| Breed: | Mixed unknown (rescue) |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | Approx. 5 |
| Colour: | Grey, brown, white |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Everyone being together in the same place. Squeezing between us on the sofa and getting her belly rubbed. Sitting on the bed looking out of the window for squirrels. Turning her nose up at fancy treats in favour of cheap biscuits. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | It has got easier! We rescued a scared and traumatised dog who we should have called Houdini as she was the world’s best escape artist (even jumping over 7-foot fences), but she has become very attached to home comforts these days. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Moving into our new home together and watching her bombing around the new garden, sniffing every inch. She has only seen snow once, but she absolutely adored it, so the other favourite memory is watching her running through and biting the snow. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | It looks like many more years of companionship and getting more grey hairs together. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Because she was found as a traumatised street dog having to scavenge for food and on 10 September she will be in the Mother of Parliaments / Palace of Westminster (as well as being an adored member of the family). |
Learn more about Bobby Dean MP and Chester
| Owner’s name: | Bobby Dean MP |
| Constituency: | Carshalton and Wallington |
| Dog’s name: | Chester |
| Breed: | Goldendoodle |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 5 |
| Colour: | Golden |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Running free in the local park and diving into the river. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | He’s had to move on from walking to heel to walking to pram. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | He was our ring-bearer on our wedding day. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Sunday walks with our happy, growing family. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | He’s the kindest, handsomest boy. But he is feeling a little put out by our new baby arriving – so deserves some attention! |
Brian Leishman MP and Hugo
Douglas Lumsden and Norman
Learn more about Brian Leishman MP and Hugo
| Owner’s name: | Brian Leishman |
| Constituency: | Alloa & Grangemouth |
| Dog’s name: | Hugo |
| Breed: | Smooth Miniature Dachshund |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 8 |
| Colour: | Red |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Hugo likes having his breakfast in the garden and then using his wheels to roam and have a good sniff. He also likes to go for a stroll around the duck pond in his pram. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Hugo has intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). A few years ago, a disc exploded in his back and the debris became lodged in his spinal column. As a result, he is no longer able to walk and therefore requires either a pram or set of wheels to get out and about. I received support from the amazing charity, ‘Pumpkin and Friends’, who helped me source wheels for Hugo so that he could become mobile again and have his independence. I was glad to finally meet Pumpkin and his owner, Tammie, at Westminster earlier this year and was able to tell them how much their support had helped Hugo to continue having a happy, healthy life. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Two months after I got Hugo, my parents-in-law got Hugo’s sister, Flora. As soon as Hugo and Flora saw each other, they recognised each other immediately. They were both so excited to be reunited with one another. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | A good life together for me and Hugo would be to continue our current routine, going for strolls with the pram and playing games together. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Hugo is representing all the dogs with IVDD to show they can still lead a joyful life. In addition, Hugo wants to be an example to other dog owners to show that dogs that have disabilities or develop them later in life can still be happy and independent with the right support and care. |
Learn more about Douglas Lumsden and Norman
| Owner’s name: | Douglas Lumsden |
| Constituency: | Aberdeen South |
| Dog’s name: | Norman |
| Breed: | Cockalier |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 1 (DOB 1/5/25) |
| Colour: | Ruby |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Playing with his yellow ball. He always looks for his yellow egg-shaped ball and if he has this ball, he is happy. He also likes chasing flies and has an incredible knack of catching them. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Norman is still a playful puppy but he is the most affectionate wee guy ever. He loves cuddling up and being near you at all times. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Coming home with Norman for the first time. Norman was tiny but settled into his new home very quickly, to the point where he was in charge very early on. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Happy walks in the park, spending time together and having fun with all the things Norman likes to do. Growing old together. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Norman is such an affectionate dog who loves to be close by; he loves playing and he loves cuddling up. Norman is a key part of the family who always brings a smile to everyone’s face. Norman epitomises what a dog should be; man’s best friend. |
Hannah Spencer MP and Judy
Helen Maguire MP and Lizzie
Learn more about Hannah Spencer MP and Judy
| Owner’s name: | Hannah Spencer |
| Constituency: | Gorton and Denton |
| Dog’s name: | Judy |
| Breed: | Greyhound |
| Sex: | Girlie |
| Age: | 11 |
| Colour: | Blue |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Judy loves to sleep for most of the day (like most greyhounds!) but she loves getting out and about and it’s been an honour to get to take her on visits with me where appropriate. She loves eating toast at Bia, the Irish Cafe in Leveshulme. Judy is from Ireland and always loves reconnecting with her roots! |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | I only got Judy in November. She was used for racing, and then breeding, so she spent a decade in a kennel. When I homed her, I promised her I’d try and give her the life she always should have. So I try and fill her days with lots of new experiences, but lots of naps too! |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | When I was elected, all of my greyhounds came to Parliament with me. I have some beautiful photos of me with all four of my greyhounds. It still makes me smile because there were about 30 photographers and lots of TV cameras and I think all my greyhounds thought everyone was there to see them! Which, of course… they were! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | For my greyhounds, for all greyhounds, I want them to have a safe and secure home where they are kept warm and with food in their belly. To know they are loved, and to have everything they need. My greyhounds taught me so much about patience and kindness, and I feel so honoured to get to share my life with them. Even if it has changed a lot in the last few months! |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Honestly, not to make this too much of a sob story, but I’d really just love to show everyone that giving a second chance to an elderly dog is so worthwhile and very rewarding. I knew when I homed her that she might not have lots of time, but getting to show her the world, and give her a happy home has brought me so much joy. And, of course, because she’s incredibly cute, so gentle, and very sassy! |
Learn more about Helen Maguire MP and Lizzie
| Owner’s name: | Helen Maguire |
| Constituency: | Epsom & Ewell |
| Dog’s name: | Lizzie |
| Breed: | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | 4 |
| Colour: | Brown |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Long walks, runs or bike rides. Hanging out with us on the sofa. Chasing after Boris the cat next door. Boris likes to sit on our shed roof, each morning Lizzie goes out to check if he’s there. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | She’s easier now than when she was a puppy. But she’s super easy, a few walks a day, no grooming required and the occasional trip to the vets. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Her lying on her back going to sleep when she was a puppy, like an insect, all my kids then lay beside her with the same pose. Her absolute delight when she runs in sand or long grass and has the zoomies! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Spending lots of time outside and being active. I love it when she tootles off in front of me with her tail up, looking for adventure. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Lizzie is an utterly adorable dog, she comes to greet you every day, she checks you’re still alive when I’m stretching in the morning. You can take her for a 10 mile walk or run and then she’ll chill for the rest of the day, but she’s available for cuddles always. |
Jack Rankin MP and Goose CV
Jessica Toale MP and Bertie
Learn more about Jack Rankin MP and Goose
| Owner’s name: | Jack Rankin |
| Constituency: | Windsor |
| Dog’s name: | Goose |
| Breed: | German Shorthaired Pointer |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 1.5 |
| Colour: | GSP colour! |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Goose is not my dog – but he is a dog who I have a bond with – and huge respect for. Goose is my close family friend Ray’s dog, and as a dog owner of two older beagles, seeing and bonding with a puppy this last year or so has been wonderful. Dogs bring people together, and when I have visited with my own two doggies (Crocus and Bluebell who I entered with last year), seeing how Goose interacted with all the older doggies (he lives with a 6 year old Schnauzer and a 7 year old Bichon / Schi Tzu mix) has been joyful. Goose is very much a creature of habit as a working dog and he loves going training with Ray just as much as playing with the older doggies and learning where he sits in the pecking order! |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | As I said, my own doggies are older and caring for Goose is a different kettle of fish. As a younger dog he has a lot of energy and needs much more mental and physical stimulation than my own two need now. He needs more walks and longer walks and he needs lots of mental stimulation – which is great fun on both fronts as my two are now perfectly happy being chilled at home. Which is a blessing with two young children – but I love getting to live vicariously through Ray and Goose and be part of the younger part of a dog’s life again. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | For my goddaughter’s birthday (Ray’s granddaughter) we had a big party at Ray’s house. It’s not a big house. But there was my family including my two boys under 5, a 14 year old girl and six dogs in the middle of December. It was mayhem but those moments just aren’t the same if you think back on them and imagine the dogs not being a part of it – eyeing up the cake! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | In reality, because of the job I do, it would be very difficult for me to own a dog like Goose. I am away from home a lot for work and I don’t have the time to devote to owning and caring for a dog like Goose. But as I said at the outset, dogs always bring people together. When I walk my girls anywhere, it’s impossible to get home without having chatted to someone else walking their dog. And in the same way as extended friends and family become part of your own family – this includes the four legged ones too. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Goose is a reminder that the right dog belongs with the right owner – but that doesn’t mean that dogs can’t be a special part of your life even if they aren’t your own. Goose is an intelligent boy, and strong and lively. Having Ray and his family and dogs welcome me and my own dogs is part of what makes dog ownership about love and connection. Not just dog to owner, but beyond. |
Learn more about Jessica Toale MP and Bertie
| Owner’s name: | Jessica Toale |
| Constituency: | Bournemouth West |
| Dog’s name: | Bertie |
| Breed: | English Bulldog |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 2 and a half |
| Colour: | Tri-colour: Merle, tan, white |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Going to the park in the morning to run around and sniff and then playing fetch. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | He’s still relatively young and has boundless energy for a bulldog. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | We travelled around Europe with our two dogs last summer. Taking them to Italy was the best as everyone referred to them as “bello.” He also met Hugh Grant during the Makerfield by-election, becoming a viral moment! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Morning walks. Evening snuggles. Bertie comes to all my constituency meetings and is loved by everyone in Bournemouth. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Bertie is a loveable bulldog who puts a smile on everyone’s faces. He has put in the hours pounding the pavement in election campaigns and by-elections and is a well-known fixture in Bournemouth. |
Julie Minns MP and Milo CV
Karl Turner MP and Charlie
Learn more about Julie Minns MP and Milo
| Owner’s name: | Julie Minns |
| Constituency: | Carlisle |
| Dog’s name: | Milo |
| Breed: | Cockapoo |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 6 |
| Colour: | Blonde |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Going to bed at 9pm – like clockwork! If I’m still on my computer an hour or two after he’s gone to bed, Milo comes and whines at me to stop working and go to bed. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Milo’s anxiety has eased a bit as he’s grown older. When he was younger he would drool and sometimes vomit when going in the car. Now he channels his anxiety into being ironing board and ladder phobic. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Watching the last episode of ‘The Crown’ and discovering Milo howls along to bagpipes! That and peeing on the vicar’s carpet on his first social outing after lockdown! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Train journeys on the West Coast Mainline between Carlisle and Westminster. A permanent state of alert for intruder urban foxes. Cuddles on the sofa. A deep dislike of cyclists and delivery people (Milo, not me), coupled with an overwhelming belief and enthusiasm that everyone must want to be his friend. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | We got Milo at a time when my daughter’s mental health was not good and I was worried about the emotional impact losing our older dog might have on us. Unfortunately, ten days after bringing Milo home the country went into lockdown and all the puppy socialisation plans went out of the window. Watching puppy socialisation videos on YouTube were no substitute, so having got him to help us emotionally, we found ourselves having to help Milo with his anxiety when the world opened up again! He’s still working on his anxiety, but despite this he’s been my emotional support when our older dog did eventually die, and when my mother and aunt died last year. I can’t imagine life without him either. |
Learn more about Karl Turner MP and Charlie
| Owner’s name: | Karl Turner |
| Constituency: | Kingston upon Hull East |
| Dog’s name: | Charlie William Dylan Thomas Turner |
| Breed: | Bichon Frisé |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | Two |
| Colour: | White |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | He really enjoys being around people, getting belly rubs and eating. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | He needs to become better behaved. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | When we brought him home, he jumped on my head and wrapped himself around me like a headscarf and started licking the inside of my ear. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Travelling with Charlie and having him around for cuddles. He has a very good nature and is very loving. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Charlie is wonderful and a really good companion. Whenever I am sick he always wants to be by my side to look after me. He is very good with children and if he comes to the office during surgery days will sit with willing constituents and tries to offer emotional support. Charlie is also an excellent campaigner as he gets people talking to me! He is also a little bit famous after being in a photo which was printed in The Guardian for the 2024 General Election. |
Kevin Hollinrake MP and Zuzu
Leigh Ingham and Nico
Learn more about Kevin Hollinrake MP and Zuzu
| Owner’s name: | Kevin Hollinrake |
| Constituency: | Thirsk and Malton |
| Dog’s name: | Zuzu |
| Breed: | Labrador Retriever |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | 18 months |
| Colour: | Black |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Zuzu loves nothing more than a relaxed weekend back home in North Yorkshire. We will take her for a long walk by the river, where she is able to run free and bring out her inner-gun dog energy, to be followed by a calm evening in our local pub, where she can get all the fuss and attention she could ever want from the regulars (and also some food if we’re eating). |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | In many ways, caring for Zuzu has remained relatively the same as she has gotten older. She has always been quite mischievous and has always managed to steal a sandwich or two and raw eggs with their shell on. So, we still have to keep a firm eye on what she’s getting up to and making sure she’s not eating anything she shouldn’t be or that can be harmful to her. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Looking back, it is hard to pinpoint a single favourite memory. Zuzu reminds me of a classic Yorkshire girl every time we go out for a walk, as her love of rabbits and hares on the beautiful countryside shines through. She has such a calm demeanour about her but as soon as she spots something, she locks in and wants to go see it up close. This has always made us laugh and smile. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Zuzu is an amazing companion and is constantly on the move with me as I do my work as an MP, and she never complains. Whether it’s down here in the hustle and bustle of London, out on the campaign trail securing votes or relaxing in a gorgeous North Yorkshire pub at the end of a day in the constituency, Zuzu is always so happy to be a part of it. I would not change this for the world. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Zuzu carries herself with grace and composure with a cheeky sparkle in her eye. She’s the perfect blend of composure and mischief, charming everyone she meets with her warm, affectionate nature. Unfailingly loyal and unshakably calm, Zuzu brings a sense of peace and comfort wherever she goes. Friendly with everyone, she has an intuitive, almost therapeutic presence that lifts moods and soothes hearts. And yes — she’s undeniably beautiful, inside and out. A true standout, Zuzu is the kind of dog who leaves a lasting impression without ever needing to try. |
Learn more about Leigh Ingham and Nic
| Owner’s name: | Leigh Ingham |
| Constituency: | Stafford, Eccleshall, and the villages |
| Dog’s name: | Nico Ingham |
| Breed: | Cavalier King Charles |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 5 (he will be 6 in December, so he gets extra spoilt with Christmas too) |
| Colour: | Tan and white (known as Blenheim) |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Nico's favourite job is hyping up any child within a five-metre radius. He'll whip them into an absolute frenzy of excitement, then completely run out of battery within ten minutes and need a lie-down. Honestly, Nico, same. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | It hasn't, if anything the royal treatment has escalated with age. Nico has never once been "just a dog." He is, and remains, the reigning king of the household, and everyone else is staff. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | When he was small enough to carry around like a precious little parcel, chin resting on my hand, body along my arm. He's a full-grown king now and still fully believes he fits. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | A steady supply of sausages, scenic walks, and quality time with his favourite person in the world: my dad, better known in this household as "The Sausage Man." |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Look at him. Cute, polite, impeccably dressed, and a devoted children's entertainer with a professional-grade weakness for sausages and crisps, Nico has spent five years proving that being royalty is a full-time job. Vote Nico, and help this king finally get the crown to match the attitude. |
Louise Sandher-Jones MP and Nugget
Melanie Onn MP and Misty and Murphy
Learn more about Louise Sandher-Jones MP and Nug
| Owner’s name: | Louise Sandher-Jones |
| Constituency: | North East Derbyshire |
| Dog’s name: | Nugget |
| Breed: | Half American Cocker Spaniel and half Toy Poodle |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | 6 |
| Colour: | Black |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Nugget’s absolute favourite thing is a tummy scratch. Otherwise, she just loves being with her family (her “grandparents” are her favourite) or chewing her toy squirrel. Her mission in life is to eat the cat’s food, which is bad for dogs, and she loves a good wallow in a really muddy pond. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | I don’t think it’s because she has got older or if I have got older but perhaps our walks aren’t as long or frequent now. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | My favourite memory with Nugget is a family holiday to Norfolk. She always has the capacity to find joy in simple things but watching her discover sand and sea for the first time was very special. She is not a particularly athletic dog but watching her racing around like a loon on the beach was very special! |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Nugget does not like getting up early so a good life together sees us have lots of lie-ins. A good walk to do the rounds followed by a decent morning nap would then be on the cards. After an afternoon snooze, she then likes a good walk in the woods with a wallow in the mud. A perfect evening for Nugget is then lying on the sofa watching TV and she likes an early night – she will judge you if you are up past 9pm. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Nugget has not necessarily distinguished herself in any way. She knows no commands, would be no use as a guide dog, and hasn’t demonstrated much talent in search and rescue. However, she has exemplified being a pet dog and companion in her own quiet way. She came into my life after a difficult moment and has faithfully been there for me ever since. She rarely causes issues, stoically puts up with train, tube and car travel and will wait patiently in a restaurant or play calmly with young children. She is, of course, exceptionally cute but whilst I am sure there are more accomplished dogs, I would challenge anyone to have a more devoted, faithful or sweet-natured companion as Nugget. |
Learn more about Melanie Onn MP and Misty and Murphy
| Owner’s name: | Melanie Onn MP |
| Constituency: | Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes |
| Dog’s name: | Misty and Murphy |
| Breed: | Golden Retrievers |
| Sex: | Misty – Female, Murphy – Male |
| Age: | Misty – 6, Murphy – 3 |
| Colour: | Golden |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Misty and Murphy are creatures of habit and absolutely thrive on their routines. Morning walks are non-negotiable, particularly if there is the possibility of finding a muddy puddle. They both love inspecting lunch boxes in the hope that somebody has accidentally packed an extra sandwich. Murphy’s greatest joy in life is carrying a tennis ball everywhere he goes. Misty enjoys greeting friends and family with her trademark "talking", making sure everyone knows how pleased she is to see them. They are happiest when all the family are together, preferably with plenty of fuss, tummy rubs and treats involved. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Misty is still full of energy and enthusiasm, always ready to join in whatever is happening and keen to be at the centre of the action. She continues to love adventures and is just as playful and spirited as ever. Murphy is still very much in his energetic young adult phase. Caring for him means lots of exercise, endless games involving tennis balls, and accepting that retrieving is apparently a task reserved for humans rather than retrievers. Having both of them together has taught us that every dog is completely different, even within the same family. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Helping Misty through the birth and care of her puppies will always be incredibly special to me. Looking after her during that time created a bond that is difficult to put into words and watching her become such a gentle and attentive mum was wonderful. Seeing Murphy grow from one of those tiny puppies into the cheerful, ball-obsessed character he is today has been a joy. One of our favourite sights is watching them run together with a single tennis ball between them, looking like a perfectly synchronised pair of chariot horses charging across the fields. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | A good life together is simple. It means long walks, muddy paws, wagging tails, plenty of laughter and lots of time spent outdoors as a family. It means having space to run, good food, affordable veterinary care when needed, and all the love and attention that dogs deserve. Dogs give so much back, but they rely entirely on us to provide a happy, secure and healthy life. For us, a good life means that Misty and Murphy are not just pets, they are very much part of the family. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Misty and Murphy are the perfect mother and son team. They are experts at finding water in even the driest conditions and should probably be consulted in any future drought planning strategy. They are highly skilled in food waste reduction, capable of detecting abandoned snacks at remarkable speed, and can clean sticky fingers and faces without being asked. Their paws look like little cookies from underneath and smell faintly of popcorn (they have popcorn pawsies). They are stubborn, affectionate, fun loving and completely uninterested in retrieving anything at all. They dislike flags, umbrellas and anything that flaps unexpectedly, but they love tennis balls, tummy rubs, muddy adventures and meeting new people. Most importantly, they bring smiles wherever they go. They have already won plenty of admirers on their Westminster walks, and their wagging tails have become familiar to local workers and residents alike. |
Peter Kyle MP and Dante
Sarah Dyke MP - DT DOG
Learn more about Peter Kyle MP and Dante
| Owner’s name: | Peter Kyle |
| Constituency: | Hove and Portslade |
| Dog’s name: | Dante |
| Breed: | Catahoula Leopard Dog |
| Sex: | Male |
| Age: | 4 |
| Colour: | Brown and white |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | A bone from the local butcher, Canham’s, or an exploration inside a cafe, restaurant or kitchen for crumbs of food. He’s very into food! He also stops at the constituency office every time we walk past on a weekend when it is closed, hoping to see the staff and get a cuddle. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Life has taken a gentler pace, with a walk along Hove promenade preferred to a romp along the South Downs. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Dante sitting in a chair in a restaurant like a prince and people thinking he was human. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Going to bed early after a delicious, healthy meal. Me sleeping on the edge of the bed while Dante spreads out. Then waking up to licks and kisses. Bouncing out of bed for a stroll around the park in the sun and walking along Hove promenade to the cafe for food via treats at the various shops along the way. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Dante keeps me happy, level-headed, grounded and active in a life that constantly pulls me to meetings, stuffy offices, travel and paperwork (lots of paperwork). He reminds me that things I do are for the long term and as we grow old together I hope the work I do in Parliament will impact many, many families with dogs and help keep everyone healthy, happy and growing old together with love. |
Learn more about Sarah Dyke MP - DT DOG
| Owner’s name: | Sarah Dyke MP |
| Constituency: | Glastonbury & Somerton |
| Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust former rescue dog? | Rescue dogs so often just need someone to give them a fair chance. Dogs Trust does extraordinary work matching dogs with the right homes, and I think there's something fitting about a rescue dog representing Westminster — a reminder that second chances matter, for dogs and for people alike. |
| What little habits or routines do you think make dogs happiest? | Consistency, in my experience, matters more than anything grand. A regular walking schedule, the same feeding times, a familiar spot to settle in the evening — dogs thrive on knowing what comes next. |
| How do you think caring for a dog changes as they grow older? | It becomes less about exercise and excitement and more about comfort and patience. Older dogs often need gentler routines, more thought given to joints and diet, and owners who are attentive to the small signs that something's changed. But what doesn't change is the loyalty and companionship — if anything, that tends to deepen with age. |
| What do you think owners can do to ensure they have “a good life together” with their dog? | Listen to them. Dogs communicate constantly through body language and behaviour, and owners who pay attention build a much stronger bond. Beyond that: give them structure, treat them with patience, make time for them even on busy days, and remember that a dog's wellbeing — like a person's — depends on feeling secure and valued. |
| Why should you and your Dogs Trust former rescue dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Because a rescue dog winning would be proof that dogs who've had a difficult start can go on to have wonderful lives, and that they've got just as much personality, loyalty, and charm as any dog with a pedigree. We'd be proud to fly the flag for Glastonbury & Somerton and for every dog still waiting for their own second chance. |
Tracy Gilbert MP and Bea
Learn more about Tracy Gilbert MP and Bea
| Owner’s name: | Tracy Gilbert |
| Constituency: | Edinburgh North and Leith |
| Dog’s name: | Bea |
| Breed: | Miniature Dachshund |
| Sex: | Female |
| Age: | 10 months |
| Colour: | Brown |
| What little habits or routines make your dog happiest? | Coming into the constituency office, being with her colleagues (best friends) and chicken. |
| How has caring for your dog changed as they’ve grown older? | Learning their own habits. |
| What is your favourite memory with your dog so far? | Taking her to the polling station. |
| What does “a good life together” look like for you and your dog? | Long walks and sharing food – for a long time. |
| Why should your dog be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year 2026? | Bea has taken working in politics in her stride. From greeting visitors and offering moral support during long days, to reminding everyone to enjoy the simple things in life, Bea has become a much-loved member of the team. Bea isn’t just a pet, she’s a four-legged colleague, a source of endless joy, and a reminder that behind every busy day in politics are real people who appreciate a friendly face (and a wagging tail). She would be a very worthy Westminster Dog of the Year 2026 because she represents everything we love about our canine companions: loyalty, kindness, character and the ability to make everyone around them laugh! She has the personality of a Great Dane, packed into a much smaller (and much lower-to-the-ground) package. |