On behalf of myself ZuZu, we're hoping to name her top dog in Westminster Dog of the Year 2025, which is taking place on Thursday 11 September at Victoria Tower Gardens in London.
Zuzu really is the piece that makes our home feel whole. She brings this quiet warmth and togetherness that’s hard to explain but always there. Her playful side keeps us laughing — she’s naturally funny and always knows how to lighten the mood. Whether she’s being goofy or just curled up next to us, she somehow makes everything feel a little brighter. She’s comforting when we need it, full of energy when things feel low and always full of love. She makes us smile and love when we’re feeling down, she picks us up when we’re feeling exhausted and she can turn a bad day into a good one just by running into a room wagging her tail. Zuzu isn’t just our pet but part of our family and truly the heart of our home.
Organised by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, the event has been running since 1992 and is open to all dog-loving MPs and their four-legged friends of all ages, breeds, shapes and sizes – pedigree and crossbreed alike, to compete to be crowned ‘Top Dog’.
This year, Westminster Dog of the Year celebrates dogs as members of the family, highlighting the vital role that dogs play in any household, the importance of the human-animal bond and the joys that dog ownership brings. The event will draw attention to topics such as pet-friendly housing, responsible dog ownership, breeding, training, and socialisation, which can ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives.
We're are also hoping for public support in the Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote which allows MPs and their canine companions seek votes from their local constituents. The award is named in memory of the late Conservative MP and a dear friend of mine, who was a dedicated advocate for the competition and campaigned tirelessly to improve and protect dog welfare throughout his life.
Additional judging will be carried out on the day by representatives from Dogs Trust, The Kennel Club, and this year’s guest judge, 2023 winner Mims Davies MP, who will consider the contestants on their dog-related deeds.
