2026 Nominations are now open!
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.
Baloo, a retired police dog, was the winner of The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award competition at Crufts 2025.
READ MORE ABOUT BALOO'S STORY HERE
Nominations are now open for the 2026 award, our five categories are:
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.
If you own, are partnered with, or know of a dog that is an everyday hero, has changed a life, brought happiness or allows someone to live their day-to-day life more easily, please nominate them for The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award 2026 below.