Could Your Dog Be Westminster's Next Champion?

This year's Westminster Dog of the Year competition saw a heartwarming victory for Poykee, a 13-year-old Keeshond owned by Labour MP Sarah Edwards. The annual event, organised by The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, not only celebrates the bond between dogs and their owners but also raises awareness about dog welfare and responsible ownership.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Poykee, a Keeshond, won the Westminster Dog of the Year 2025 competition.
• The event is organised by The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust.
• This year's runners-up were rescue dog Mabel and Labrador Lucy.
• The competition promotes dog welfare and responsible ownership.
• The Sir David Amess Public Vote awarded guide dog Jennie as a special winner.

The Westminster Dog of the Year Competition

The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is an annual event held in Victoria Tower Gardens, located near the Houses of Parliament in London. This competition not only highlights the bond between pets and their owners but also addresses significant issues in dog welfare. It serves as a platform for Members of Parliament (MPs) to engage with experts and discuss topics such as responsible dog ownership, training, and breeding.

Poykee: A Star in the Making

Poykee, the 13-year-old Keeshond, has been a loyal companion to Sarah Edwards, the Labour MP for Tamworth. Edwards expressed her delight at Poykee's win, stating, "It's really amazing. I was hoping that we had a chance." The preparation leading up to the event included ensuring Poykee showcased his unique personality. Edwards mentioned, "We’ve been out and about in Tamworth talking to people and thinking about how we can promote the fabulousness of dogs."

The Importance of Preparation

Edwards noted that their preparation involved not just training and grooming Poykee but also demonstrating his character. This aspect of dog ownership is vital, especially when it comes to presenting a pet in a competitive environment. The connection between a dog and its owner plays a pivotal role in competitions like these.

Runner-Up Highlights

While Poykee took the top spot, the competition was fierce. The runners-up included:

• Mabel: A rescue dog who captured the hearts of the judges and was owned by Becky Gittins, Labour MP for Clwyd East.
• Lucy: A Labrador owned by Andrew Snowden, Conservative MP for Fylde, who secured third place.

The Significance of Rescue Dogs

Mabel’s participation and second-place finish highlights the importance of rescue dogs in our communities. They often have unique stories and can serve as excellent companions and therapy animals, promoting the message of adoption and responsible ownership.

The Sir David Amess Public Vote

In addition to the competitive judging, the event featured the Sir David Amess Public Vote, which allows the public to participate in choosing a winner. This year, the honour went to Jennie, a six-year-old guide dog owned by Steve Darling, the Lib Dem MP for Torbay. The public vote is named after Sir David Amess, a long-time advocate for animal welfare who tragically lost his life in 2021. His own dog, Vivienne, won the competition in its previous edition.

Honouring a Legacy

The inclusion of the public vote serves to honour Amess's legacy and his passion for dogs. It also engages the community, allowing them to celebrate the incredible contributions that dogs make to our lives.

Conversations on Dog Welfare

The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is more than just a fun event; it fosters discussions around crucial topics related to dog welfare. MPs have the opportunity to engage with experts and address various issues, including:

• Pet-friendly housing policies
• Responsible dog ownership practices
• Best practices for breeding and training
• Socialisation for dogs in different environments

Expert Insights

Jannine Edgar, the chief executive of The Kennel Club, congratulated Poykee and Sarah Edwards, noting the strong competition this year. "There was strong competition this year, with some truly heartwarming relationships between dogs and their owners," she remarked. This reinforces the event's goal of celebrating the bond between dogs and their humans.

The Role of Dogs in Society

Claire Calder, head of public affairs at Dogs Trust, emphasised the significance of events like this one. She highlighted that they provide an opportunity to promote key messages around animal welfare and responsible dog ownership. "Events like this are more than just fun – they're a chance to highlight the connection between people and their dogs," Calder stated.

Dogs as Family Members

As pets, dogs have a crucial role in families across the UK. They offer companionship, emotional support, and often encourage physical activity through walks and play. The Westminster Dog of the Year competition reinforces the idea that dogs are not just pets; they are cherished family members.

Looking Forward: What Happens Next?

The win for Poykee brings attention to the ongoing discussions about dog welfare and the responsibilities of pet ownership. As MPs continue to advocate for better policies, the hope is that events like this will lead to meaningful changes in legislation that benefit both dogs and their owners.

Future Competitions

As we look ahead to future Westminster Dog of the Year competitions, there will likely be a continued emphasis on rescue dogs and the importance of adoption. The stories of dogs like Mabel remind us of the countless animals waiting for loving homes.

Conclusion: The Bond Between Humans and Dogs

The Westminster Dog of the Year competition serves as a reminder of the unique bond between humans and their canine companions. As we celebrate the joy that dogs bring into our lives, it is essential to continue advocating for their welfare and the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. With the success of Poykee and the conversations sparked by this event, there is hope for a future where all dogs receive the care and love they deserve.

As we reflect on this year's competition, consider how you can promote responsible dog ownership in your community. What steps can you take to support local shelters and advocate for animal welfare? #WestminsterDogOfTheYear #DogWelfare #CompanionAnimals

FAQs

What is the Westminster Dog of the Year competition?

The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is an annual event that celebrates the bond between dogs and their owners, while also addressing important issues related to dog welfare and responsible ownership.

Who won the Westminster Dog of the Year 2025?

Poykee, a 13-year-old Keeshond owned by Sarah Edwards, Labour MP for Tamworth, won the Westminster Dog of the Year 2025 competition.

What is the Sir David Amess Public Vote?

The Sir David Amess Public Vote is a segment of the Westminster Dog of the Year competition where the public can vote for their favourite dog. This year, the winner was Jennie, a guide dog owned by Steve Darling, the Lib Dem MP for Torbay.

Why is dog welfare important?

Dog welfare is crucial for ensuring that dogs receive proper care, training, and socialisation. It also promotes responsible ownership, which benefits both dogs and their owners in the long run.

How can I support dog welfare in my community?

You can support dog welfare by adopting from local shelters, volunteering with animal rescue organisations, and advocating for responsible pet ownership in your community.