Nominations for 2025 are now closed.
The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award is presented to one very special unsung canine hero at Crufts each year. The award – supported by The Kennel Club Charitable Trust – celebrates the unique relationship people have with their dogs and the important role man’s best friend plays throughout our lives and in society.
Nominations are now closed for the 2025 award, but you can read about our five categories below:
Extraordinary life of a working dog
For those who have shown extraordinary qualities working in the army, police force, RAF, airport, search and rescue etc.
Hero support dog
Celebrating all support and assistance dogs, from guide dogs, hearing dogs, medical detection dogs and autism assistance dogs to support dogs, including therapy dogs or pets who provide emotional support.
Best friends
Celebrating a pet dog who has seen its owner through the hardest times, as well as the happiest.
Child’s champion
Recognising a dog that has supported and had a positive impact on a child's life (17 years and under).
Rescue dog hero
For a rescue dog who has overcome adversity and gone on to improve the life of its owner/s.
We want to celebrate and share the amazing stories of how dogs give back to us every day of our lives. There is one finalist per category and an overall winner, decided through a public vote, which will be announced in the main arena at Crufts. The winner and the runners up will receive generous donations from The Kennel Club Charitable Trust for their nominated canine charity, to help to make a positive difference for dogs.
Find out more about our amazing previous finalists and winners on our YouTube Channel.
Nominations for the 2025 Hero dog award are now closed, details on the finalists should be available in February 2025.
Nominations for 2025
The annual Kennel Club Hero Dog Award celebrates the unique relationship people have with their dogs, the important role man’s best friend plays throughout our lives and the support they give us in the face of adversity. The Nominations are now closed, more information will be available in February 2025.