{"id":47469,"date":"2025-03-02T04:05:13","date_gmt":"2025-03-01T17:05:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/puppytales.com.au\/?page_id=47469"},"modified":"2025-12-02T17:21:50","modified_gmt":"2025-12-02T06:21:50","slug":"finalists-2025","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/puppytales.com.au\/finalists-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Finalists – 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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The Australian Dog of Year 2025
Finalists & People's Choice Voting<\/h1>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Paws have been muddied. Coats have been matted. Our furry offsiders have (once again) proven their mettle.
So in their honour, it\u2019s time to announce the finalists for The Australian Dog of the Year 2025<\/strong><\/em>!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Looking over all of the noble doggos that were nominated, we\u2019re reminded once again of just how incredible our doggos are! Reading through the entries, we\u2019ve seen how Paw-stralians from across our nation have made a difference to others and the communities that they live in, and have helped people through difficult times.<\/span><\/p>

We\u2019ve found ourselves smiling, laughing, and even reaching for the tissues as we\u2019ve read through the beautiful stories of our Aussie fur family and the people they\u2019ve touched. Once again, it\u2019s clear that for many of us, our puppers are our best friends, closest companions, and furry superheroes. We wish we could include all of them as finalists!<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\tKnow who you're voting for already for the People's Choice Prize? <\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRace on ahead to vote by clicking here.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<\/a>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Meet the Australian Dog of The Year Finalists for 2025<\/span><\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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With our tails wagging, we present the Australian Dog of The Year Finalists for 2025!<\/p>

Can I get a WOOF-WOOF?!\ud83d\ude0e \ud83d\udc36 \ud83d\udc15<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Sunday-Rottweiler-web\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Sunday,
Rottweiler<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Fetching Dogs<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Sunday has transformed adversity into a beacon of hope for animals and humans alike. After losing her back left leg as a newborn, she was adopted by Dr. Matthew Breeds, a chiropractor with a deep love for animals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

To enhance her mobility, Sunday underwent groundbreaking osseointegration surgery in 2019, receiving a hybrid cobalt-titanium implant into her tibia. This innovative procedure, led by Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Munjed Al Muderis and Veterinary Specialist Dr. Daniel James, made her the first dog in Australia to receive a human-designed prosthetic implant.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Sunday’s successful recovery has paved the way for similar surgeries in other animals, offering renewed mobility and a second chance at life. Her story stands as a testament to innovation and compassion, inspiring countless others worldwide.

Location: Sydney, NSW<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Ruzie-Australian\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Ruzie,
Australian Kelpie<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Painted Dog Conservation Inc<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ruzie, the ocean-loving surfing dog, began her career in 2023 as a Seagull Patrol Dog, adeptly safeguarding diners’ meals around Sydney Harbour by chasing away pesky seagulls.<\/span> Her dedication to this role was unwavering until her family’s circumstances shifted dramatically.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

When her hu-mum’s mum (Ruzie’s nan) was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer, Ruzie seamlessly transitioned from protecting public spaces to providing steadfast support at home during this challenging period. Additionally, as her canine sister faced a skin cancer diagnosis, Ruzie’s comforting presence became even more vital. Beyond her professional duties, Ruzie has been a constant source of joy, serving as a flower girl at her pawrents wedding and offering solace during life’s most trying times. Her unwavering loyalty and adaptability highlight the profound bond between humans and their canine companions.

Location: Sydney, NSW<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Soldier,
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity:<\/b> Story Dogs<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Soldier is a one-of-a-kind Cavalier whose resilience and determination inspire everyone who meets him. After losing his left eye at 14 months due to an accident, Soldier didn\u2019t dwell on his challenges\u2014instead, he lived up to his name, charging forward with an unwavering spirit.<\/span><\/p>

From excelling in the show ring to conquering the trial ring, Soldier embodies the mantra of \u201cnever give up.\u201d Despite initial doubts from his hu-mum about the difficulty of certain tasks, Soldier is quick to prove her wrong, taking on every challenge with a confident \u201cI\u2019ve got this!\u201d<\/span><\/p>

At 11 years old, Soldier has earned an extraordinary 23 Dogs Australia titles across a range of disciplines, including Rally, Tracking, and Agility. He is only the second Cavalier in Australia to achieve Multi Champion status in both conformation and dog sports.<\/span><\/p>

A shy personality by nature, Soldier\u2019s blossoming confidence and unyielding spirit continue to teach his people invaluable lessons in resilience and love.

Location: Ballarat, VIC<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Bear,
Australian Koolie<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: <\/b>International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)<\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Bear\u2019s journey from a \u201chandful\u201d puppy to a koala-saving hero is nothing short of extraordinary. After being surrendered multiple times, Bear found his true purpose with the Detection Dogs for Conservation team, where his boundless energy and focus became an invaluable asset.<\/span><\/p>

Unlike most dogs trained to detect koala scats, Bear\u2019s exceptional skills allow him to find live koalas resting high in trees. Over the years, Bear has saved over 100 koalas, playing a vital role in search and rescue missions during bushfires, vehicle strikes, and disease outbreaks. His work has been pivotal in efforts like Black Summer, where every koala he saved made a tangible difference to endangered populations.<\/span><\/p>

Beyond his lifesaving work, Bear\u2019s cheerful nature and striking blue eyes bring comfort to those affected by disaster. Featured in documentaries, including \u201cBear, Koala Hero,\u201d Bear\u2019s story highlights the critical importance of wildlife conservation and inspires action to protect Australia\u2019s iconic koalas.

Location: Sunshine Coast, QLD<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Elle,
Border Collie x KoOlie<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Deaf Dog Rescue Australia<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Elle is a remarkable deaf rescue dog who has turned her challenges into opportunities to make a difference in countless lives. Relying on sign language to communicate, Elle competes in agility and obedience competitions, showcasing her incredible bond with her handler.<\/span><\/p>

As a school therapy dog, Elle helps children navigate anxiety, tough days, and behavioural challenges. Students earn reward cards to perform tricks with Elle, improving classroom behaviour while fostering a sense of achievement. She also teaches children how to approach dogs safely and communicate using sign language.<\/span><\/p>

Elle\u2019s impact extends beyond students\u2014she\u2019s a beloved presence in the staffroom, bringing smiles, laughs, and well-timed fur cuddles to anyone who needs them. Whether joining dress-up days or sneaking in a quick game of ball, Elle spreads joy wherever she goes. She\u2019s even part of the school staff photo, a testament to the profound difference she\u2019s made in the school community.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Gold Coast, QLD<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Daphne,
Tibetan Spaniel<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Second Chance Animal Rescue<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Daphne\u2019s story is one of unwavering determination and resilience. At 11 years old, she suffered a severe brain injury after being hit by two cars on Boxing Day 2023. Prognoses were grim\u2014she was not expected to survive, and if she did, she would never walk, see, or eat independently again.<\/span><\/p>

But Daphne had other plans. Just a week after leaving the vet, she began eating on her own, and within months, she was walking, running, and even jumping. She regained vision in her right eye and never lost her signature sassy, stubborn personality.<\/span><\/p>

Before her accident, Daphne was a Pet Therapy dog at Lort Smith. Her pawrent aspires to Daphne returning to this role and inspiring others with brain injuries, showing that recovery is possible. Daphne\u2019s miraculous journey has inspired countless people, including her vets and physiotherapists, who now see hope for dogs with severe brain injuries. She truly embodies hope, love, and determination.
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Location: Melbourne, VIC<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Fly-Border\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Fly,
Border Collie<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Dolly\u2019s Dream<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Fly was a dog whose impact extended far beyond her own life. As a therapy dog, she brought comfort and confidence to veterans, at-risk youth, and children, while also mentoring puppies and easing the fears of nervous dogs at her hu-mum\u2019s dog training school. Her calming presence was a cornerstone of the 2024 Dolly’s Dream campaign, where she helped raise awareness about bullying and safety for vulnerable individuals.<\/span><\/p>

More than her roles, Fly was a soul dog\u2014a steadfast companion who helped her person navigate personal mental health challenges. Together, they built a thriving business, recognised as Australian Small Business of the Year in 2024.<\/span><\/p>

Since her sudden passing six months ago, Fly\u2019s absence is deeply felt, yet her legacy endures. Her love, the lives she touched, and the inspiration she provided continue to fuel the business journey. Fly\u2019s memory remains a beacon of hope, resilience, and purpose.
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Location: Central Coast, TAS<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Panda,
Standard Poodle<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Animal Welfare League NSW<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Panda has transformed his pawrent\u2019s life. Diagnosed with autism during a difficult transition from high school to university, his pawrent faced overwhelming challenges and a loss of direction. Panda brought purpose and joy back into their life.<\/span><\/p>

Before 18 months of age, Panda earned five ANKC titles, including his Australian Championship, showcasing his intelligence and drive. Training and competing together helped his pawrent build confidence, form friendships, and navigate the world with independence.<\/span><\/p>

Panda\u2019s intuition is extraordinary. Without being trained, he developed his own tasks to help his pawrent in stressful situations, such as leaning in for body pressure or encouraging soothing pats to provide emotional regulation.<\/span><\/p>

Panda is more than a champion; he\u2019s a heart-and-soul companion. The bond they share has not only changed his pawrent\u2019s life but also highlights the profound impact dogs can have on our emotional and mental well-being.

Location: Sydney, NSW<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Artemis\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Artemis (Arte),
Labrador Retriever<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Lort Smith<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Artemis, affectionately known as Arte, is a reclassified Guide Dog whose gentle nature and fun-loving personality make her an exceptional Therapy Dog. Arte works alongside her pawrent in a counselling practice, supporting children navigating emotional or behavioural challenges.<\/span><\/p>

Arte plays a vital role in therapy sessions by helping kids feel at ease. Whether sitting close or placing her paw on a child in distress, Arte provides comfort and aids in co-regulation. Her own experiences with anxiety allow her pawrent to discuss coping strategies in a relatable way, empowering children to better understand and manage their own feelings.<\/span><\/p>

Arte\u2019s impact extends beyond the counselling room. Her book, <\/span>Arte\u2019s Anxiety Disappears<\/span><\/i>, shares her journey and practical advice, helping children build resilience and emotional awareness. Arte is not only a beloved family member but also a beacon of hope and comfort, making a profound difference in her community.
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Location: Melbourne, VIC<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ice,
German Shepherd<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: <\/span><\/strong>LifeFlight Australia<\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ice is an extraordinary Assistance Dog who has transformed her pawrent\u2019s life. Living with narcolepsy, being wheelchair-bound, and managing life with one arm comes with challenges, but Ice has removed those obstacles entirely. She intuitively senses when an episode is approaching, preventing her pawrent from moving until it\u2019s safe.<\/span><\/p>

Ice enables her pawrent to live independently, from gardening and pruning trees to working with confidence, knowing she\u2019s always there. Her visits to hospital even brighten the days of other patients, thanks to her natural charm and ability to spread joy.<\/span><\/p>

At the local obedience club, Ice is a star. She\u2019s known for stepping in when someone\u2014dog or human\u2014needs a little guidance, and her calming presence makes classes enjoyable for everyone. A mix of clown and caretaker, Ice\u2019s antics always have a purpose: putting smiles on faces. She\u2019s more than a helper; Ice has given her pawrent a reason to truly live again.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Brisbane, QLD<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Digger,
Golden Retriever<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: <\/b>Smartpups<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Digger is a remarkable service dog whose unwavering support has transformed the life of his young human, Brock. Digger provides essential assistance, instinctively sensing when Brock feels anxious or overwhelmed and offering comfort and reassurance in those moments.<\/span><\/p>

Trained to assist with critical tasks, Digger helps Brock navigate everyday life with greater independence. Whether guiding him through crowded spaces or tracking him if he becomes disoriented, Digger\u2019s skills are invaluable and have significantly improved Brock\u2019s quality of life.<\/span><\/p>

Beyond his direct support, Digger has made a meaningful impact on his community, raising awareness about the vital role of service animals and the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. His dedication and partnership embody the true spirit of service.<\/span><\/p>

Digger is more than a companion\u2014he is a life-changing partner who empowers Brock to face the world with confidence.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Brisbane, QLD<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Harvey-Labrador-web\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Harvey,
Labrador Retriever<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Guide Dogs Tasmania<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Harvey is an extraordinary Guide Dog whose unwavering dedication has transformed his pawrent\u2019s life. From preventing accidents to building confidence, Harvey\u2019s work has brought independence, safety, and immense joy.<\/span><\/p>

Known for his impeccable style with collars, bandanas, and outfits, Harvey balances his playful personality with an unmatched focus when it\u2019s time to work. The moment his Guide harness goes on, he switches from \u201ccrazy dog play mode\u201d to a diligent professional, guiding his pawrent with precision and care.<\/span><\/p>

Beyond his guiding role, Harvey has mentored countless dogs in training through his family\u2019s volunteer work with Guide Dogs TAS. His calm and patient nature has helped prepare future Guide Dogs for their important roles.<\/span><\/p>

Recently retired due to health challenges, Harvey continues to bring smiles and love to those around him. With five years of outstanding service and a legacy of mentorship, Harvey is truly deserving of recognition.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Hobart, TAS<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Saxon-English\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Saxon,
English Cocker Spaniel<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Dog Rescue Newcastle<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Saxon is a remarkable dog whose intuitive nature and gentle presence have transformed lives. Arriving during a time of overwhelming anxiety and grief, Saxon instinctively learned to calm his pawrent during panic attacks by providing grounding pressure, helping her regain the ability to function and reconnect with the world.<\/span><\/p>

At just two years old, Saxon became a Delta Therapy Dog, bringing comfort to residents in a local dementia ward. His visits every fortnight brighten lives in ways only a dog like him can. Saxon\u2019s journey doesn\u2019t stop there. Through training and competing in obedience and scent work, he and his pawrent have built a bond rooted in trust and growth. They\u2019ve found a supportive community and are now preparing to track injured wildlife.<\/span><\/p>

Saxon\u2019s true gift lies in the joy, connection, and courage he inspires, making him not just a companion but a partner in healing and hope.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Newcastle, NSW<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Gordon,
Labrador Retriever<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: <\/b>Country Fire Authority<\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Gordon is a lifesaving companion and a true hero for his hu-mum, demonstrating extraordinary dedication and intelligence. Despite having no formal training, Gordon instinctively understands how to assist his hu-mum, who lives with an acquired brain injury (ABI) and dynamic disabilities.<\/span><\/p>

Gordon\u2019s incredible abilities include guiding his hu-mum in the dark, navigating her through disorienting public spaces, and alerting others when she needs help. His quick thinking has saved her life multiple times\u2014whether guiding her to safety during a heatstroke episode, helping her out of a river when she was stuck, or ensuring her family is alerted when he barks on command.<\/span><\/p>

In addition to his life-saving instincts, Gordon is a powerful advocate for invisible disabilities, showcasing the vital role dogs play in providing independence and support. Playful and goofy when not working, Gordon is loved by all who meet him. His loyalty and selflessness make him a shining example of the bond between humans and dogs.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Central Highlands, VIC<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Wally,
Shih Tzu x Maltese<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Dachshund IVDD Support Australia<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Wally is a symbol of resilience and joy, inspiring everyone he meets. After spinal surgery left him unable to walk, Wally embraced life with a set of wheels, proving that determination can overcome any challenge. His adventures, shared through social media, from beach runs to acupuncture sessions, show that disabilities don\u2019t limit worth\u2014they amplify character.<\/span><\/p>

In his local community, Wally is a source of smiles and lessons. Children are drawn to his cart or pram, learning empathy and adaptability through his story. For adults, Wally fosters conversations about disability awareness, extending his impact beyond pets to people.<\/span><\/p>

For his pawrent, who lives with chronic health conditions, Wally is an anchor of positivity. His unshakable zest for life and tail-wagging spirit lift her on tough days, reminding her to celebrate life\u2019s small wins.<\/span><\/p>

Wally\u2019s courage and boundless love make him a deserving candidate for Australian Dog of the Year.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Central Coast, NSW<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Princess Evie,
English Cocker Spaniel<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: DACS Inc<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Princess Evie brought love and joy into every moment, making the ordinary extraordinary. From beach runs and Bunnings trips to cuddles on the couch, Evie\u2019s days were filled with happiness, leaving her family with cherished memories of her sweet, playful spirit.<\/span><\/p>

Tragically, 2024 brought unimaginable loss when Evie suffered a fatal attack at a pet boarding facility. Her devastating loss highlighted a critical gap: the lack of regulation in the pet boarding industry, particularly in the Northern Territory and beyond.<\/span><\/p>

In her honour, <\/span>Evie\u2019s Bark<\/span><\/i> was founded to advocate for stricter regulations and reforms in pet care. The initiative petitions for inclusion in the Animal Welfare Act, recognising pets as sentient beings and family members, not mere property. Through <\/span>Evie\u2019s Bark,<\/span><\/i> her legacy shines brightly, raising awareness and inspiring change to protect pets across Australia. Evie\u2019s story is one of love, advocacy, and hope for a safer future for all furry companions.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Darwin, NT<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Fonz
Jack Russell Terrier<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Delta Therapy Dogs<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Fonz is a dog who brings joy, comfort, and connection to everyone he meets. An ex-show dog, Fonz found a new purpose with his pawrent when he began training at two years old. Now an approved Delta Therapy Dog, Fonz has been spreading smiles for three years at a local aged care facility, brightening the lives of residents with his gentle and loving nature.<\/span><\/p>

Beyond aged care, Fonz participates in Paws for Pressure events, visiting universities and workplaces to ease stress during exams or high-pressure situations. His presence brings calm and comfort to those who need it most.<\/span><\/p>

Fonz\u2019s talents don\u2019t stop there. He competes in Rally and Trick Trials and is a dedicated member of the Deer Bush Dog Training Club, where his pawrent has been a life member for over 20 years. Fonz embodies service, skill, and companionship, making him a perfect candidate for these awards.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Sydney, NSW<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Orca,
Dalmation<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Charity: Search and Rescue Canines SA<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Orca is a hero in training, preparing for urban search and rescue missions that will save lives. His keen sense of smell, agility, and unwavering dedication equip him to navigate challenging environments and locate those in need during critical situations.<\/span><\/p>

Beyond his professional training, Orca\u2019s presence brings joy and comfort to everyone he meets. Whether at a training session, a Christmas Pageant, or simply interacting with his community, Orca\u2019s friendly nature and infectious energy leave a lasting impression.<\/span><\/p>

On a personal level, Orca has transformed his pawrent\u2019s life, bringing joy, loyalty, and resilience every day. He also raises awareness about the vital role dogs play in emergency response teams, showcasing their incredible capabilities and importance.<\/span><\/p>

Location: Adelaide, NSW<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Vote for Your Favourite in the People\u2019s Choice Prize<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Want to get in on some of this a-paw-rable action? We\u2019re inviting you to vote for your favourite finalists!<\/p>

The People\u2019s Choice will receive:<\/p>