Celebrating the dogs who make learning brighter, calmer and happier!
Hosted by the National School Dog Alliance (NSDA) and Swansea University, in partnership with the All‑Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Welfare Group (APDAWG)
What’s the Award About?
The NSDA champions happy, respectful and safe relationships between children, adults and dogs in schools. We know just how much a school dog can brighten a day, calm a classroom and change a child’s confidence.
The UK School Dog of the Year Award celebrates these incredible canine partners — the dogs who bring joy and support learning across the UK. This is the only award dedicated to celebrating these remarkable dogs and the schools that support them.
In partnership with All‑Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Welfare Group (APDAWG) and supported by the Pet Education Partnership.
At its heart, the award recognises schools that prioritise canine welfare and make sure their dogs are just as happy, enriched and fulfilled as the children they work with.
Award Categories for 2026
- Primary School Dog of the Year
- Secondary School Dog of the Year
- Special School Dog of the Year
- Education Community Dog of the Year
(for dogs working in wider educational settings)
How to Enter
- Download the entry form from our website.
2. Send your completed form plus a 2–3 minute video or slideshow to:
national-school-dog-alliance@swansea.ac.uk
Your entry should show:
- How your dog works with pupils and who they support.
- The difference they make to your learners and the school community.
- How you prioritise canine welfare, training, enrichment and ongoing assessment
You might like to refer to the Dog’s Trust School Dogs Toolkit for some useful information before applying (https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/professionals/education/school-dogs)
Key Dates
- Entries open: 9 February 2026
- Closing date: 27 March 2026
New for 2026
- Winners’ Reception at the House of Commons – May 2026.
- Celebratory Online Event – June 2026 (open to all entrants!)
