Hero Dog Award winner Sgt. Bo at a children's event.
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Celebrate Ordinary Dogs that Do Extraordinary Things

For 15 years, our nationwide competition has invited dog owners across America to nominate their canine heroes. Whether they’re service dogs helping people with disabilities, therapy dogs bringing comfort to those in need, or family pets who have shown unexpected bravery, we honor them all.

Meet the Heroes

Thank you to all five of the finalists chosen from an extraordinary group of 25 courageous canines representing the heart of the Hero Dog Awards — bravery in action, healing paws that bring comfort and second-chance stories that prove hope is never lost. 

2025 Hero Dog

Sgt. Bo

Superpower: Providing comfort.

Category: Therapy Dogs

Finalist

Donald

Superpower: Intuitive guidance and life-saving protection.

Category: Service and Guide / Hearing Dogs

Finalist

Harrison

Superpower: Tracking down evidence.

Category: Law Enforcement & First Responder Dogs

Finalist

K9 Ultra

Superpower: Seamlessly transitioning from play-mode to mission-mode.

Category: Military Dogs

Finalist

Lieutenant Dan

Superpower: Spreading joy and confidence with every smile.

Category: Emerging Hero and Shelter Dogs

Join Us as a Sponsor

Join us as a sponsor of this year’s Hero Dog Awards to honor the country’s most heroic canines and align your brand with their inspiring stories. Sponsors receive recognition and marketing benefits throughout the nomination and voting rounds starting, as well as during the gala on January 9, 2026.

Hero Dogs Hall of Fame

2024 Hero Dog Winner Bo, Law Enforcement / First Responder Dogs

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2023 Hero Dog winner Maverick, Therapy Dogs

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2022 Hero Dog Winner Ethan, Shelter Dogs

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