The Kennel Club has announced the five extraordinary finalists for The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award 2025.
The prestigious award celebrates the special bond between dogs and their owners and highlights the incredible impact dogs have on our lives.
The public is now invited to vote for the most inspiring canine hero, with the winner to be crowned at Crufts on 9 March.
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Hero Dog Award 2025 finalists
Blood-giving dog – Sharwood
Sharwood, an eight-year-old Gordon setter from Bedfordshire, has donated an incredible 22.5kg of blood, helping save the lives of over 160 critically ill pets. His owner, Sue Mitchell, describes him as “amazing”.
Extraordinary working dog – Baloo
After suffering life-changing injuries in 2018, police dog Baloo lost a leg but found a new purpose. She now supports officers' mental health through the ‘Oscar Kilo’ wellbeing programme, inspiring many with her resilience.
Epic walkies dog – Louis
Nick Johnson and his dog, Louis, walked the entire English coastline in memory of Nick’s late wife, raising over £60,000 for cancer research. Louis provided companionship and strength through every step of the 3,000-mile journey.
Rescue hero dog – Tilly
Abandoned as a puppy, Tilly overcame the odds to become a therapy and assistance dog, helping her owner Emily manage anxiety and providing comfort to people in care homes, schools and prisons.
Child’s champion – Rosa
Pomeranian Rosa has been a lifeline for eight-year-old Rozalyn, who cares for her autistic brother. Rosa has helped Rozalyn regain confidence and happiness, transforming her young life.
The public can vote for their favourite Hero Dog until 4pm on 9 March. Crufts 2025 takes place from 6-9 March at the NEC Birmingham, celebrating the extraordinary role dogs play in our lives.
Main image: The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award 2025 finalists. From left: Tilly and Emily, Sharwood and Sue, Louis and Nick, Rosa and Rozalyn, Baloo and Mandy/ Credit: The Kennel Club
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