Our annual, nationwide competition recognizes heroes on both ends of the leash. Congratulations to the 2025 Hero Dog winner Sgt. Bo!
15th Annual Hero Dog Awards winner, Sgt. Bo. Once a stray, Sgt. Bo’s journey from loneliness to heroism is a powerful story of hope and love.
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.
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
Meet the hero dogs from past years and discover their inspiring stories
