Britain’s unsung canine heroes are being sought for a national award celebrating dogs whose bravery, loyalty and companionship have changed lives.
Nominations opened today, 1 October, for the Crufts Hero Dog Awards 2027, with organisers introducing a new format giving any dog with an extraordinary story the chance to win.
From dogs serving in the armed forces, police and search and rescue teams to much-loved companions helping their families through difficult times, the awards will recognise the many ways dogs support people.
Separate entry categories have been removed for 2027, opening the competition to working dogs, assistance dogs and family pets alike.
Five finalists will each receive a £1,000 donation for their chosen charity and a medal presented live at Crufts. The overall winner, chosen by a public vote and named “The People’s Champion”, will receive a further £2,000 for their chosen cause.
Another five entrants will receive an Honourable Mention and a £100 charity donation.
Jannine Edgar, chief executive of The Royal Kennel Club, said: “Crufts has evolved to become so much more than just an event and revamping the Hero Dog Awards allows us to celebrate and showcase the extraordinary year-round bond between dogs and their owners.
“Every dog has a unique story, and by removing separate categories this year, we are opening the floor so every single canine hero has an equal chance to shine.
“Whether they are working on the front line, assisting someone with daily challenges, or simply bringing quiet comfort to a family, these dogs change lives every day, and we want to give them the national platform they deserve.”
The launch comes as the family of the most recent winner, Staffordshire Bull Terrier Asha, shared how she continues to make a difference to teenager Logan’s life.
Logan, who has cerebral palsy and mitochondrial disease, uses a wheelchair full-time and needs ongoing medical care. Asha provides emotional support and daily companionship, remaining calmly by his side.
The pair received their award from Paralympian Jessica-Jane Applegate MBE in the bp pulse LIVE arena at Crufts, alongside a donation to their chosen charity, West Wales Poundies.
The following day, Logan took Asha into school, where the entire unit lined the corridors to clap and cheer as they passed through together.
His mother, Donna, said: “The love that Logan and Asha received from the community when they won their award was completely overwhelming and something we will treasure forever.
“Through all of this, Asha hasn’t changed one bit. She’s still the incredible girl she’s always been, quietly by Logan’s side, looking after him, keeping him company and being there whenever he needs her.”
Nominations close on 31 October 2026 and can be submitted through the Crufts website.
Finalists will be announced in early 2027, ahead of the final at Crufts, which takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 4 to 7 March.
Finalists will be announced in early 2027, ahead of the final at Crufts, which takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 4 to 7 March.
