MP and her dog aiming for top spot in competition

* Becky Gittins MP with her dog Mabel are looking for support in the competition.

Clwyd East MP Becky Gittins and her rescue dog Mabel are hoping to be named top dog in Westminster Dog of the Year 2026, which is taking place on September 10 at Victoria Tower Gardens in London.

Mabel came agonisingly close to getting her paws on the coveted trophy last year, finishing in second place. This year, Becky and Mabel are hoping to go one better by taking top spot.

Organised by Dogs Trust and The Royal 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.

This year will see 16 other MPs and their dogs competing for the top prize.

For 2026 Westminster Dog of the Year celebrates 'A Good Life Together and A Lifetime Commitment', recognising the special bond between dogs and their owners and the lifelong commitment that helps dogs thrive. 

The event shines a spotlight on the importance of responsible breeding and puppy buying, positive training and socialisation, and responsible dog ownership - all of which play a vital role in giving every dog the opportunity to enjoy a happy, healthy life.

The pair are also hoping for public support in the Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote, in which the MPs and their canine companions seek votes from their local constituents. The award is named in memory of the late Conservative MP, who was a dedicated advocate for the competition and campaigned tirelessly to improve and protect dog welfare throughout his life.

Becky Gittins said: “Mabel had a difficult start in life, abandoned in a park as a young pup before we rescued her nearly seven years ago. Since then, she’s become a huge part of our family – teaching us plenty about compassion, responsibility and never judging a book by its cover… as well as the importance of never leaving snacks unattended!

"Now around eight years old, and a little more arthritic than she once was, she still approaches everything with the same enthusiasm – whether that’s a woodland walk, an adventure, a cuddle on the sofa or patiently queuing beneath her baby sister’s high chair at dinner time."

* For more details of all the MPs and dogs entered for Westminster Dog of the Year, and to vote for Becky and Mabel in the Pawblic Vote, visit the Westminster Dog of the Year website at: https://www.royalkennelclub.com/events-and-activities/events/westminster-dog-of-the-year/