Search launched for Britain's best dogs and the people behind them

A nationwide search has begun to find Britain's most deserving dogs and the people who help keep them happy, healthy and entertained. The inaugural Peamutt Butter Awards 2026, launched by dog treat brand Peamutt Butter, will celebrate outstanding dogs, owners, groomers and trainers from across the UK. Organisers are seeking nominations across six categories, including Dog Hero of the Year, Man's Best Friend Award, Dog Trainer of the Year and Dog Groomer of the Year.

The awards will also recognise owners who go the extra mile to keep their pets mentally stimulated through the Enrichment Champion Award, while the Nuttiest Dog Walk Award will celebrate the UK's funniest, muddiest and most adventurous canine outings. Winners in each category will receive a year's supply of Peamutt Butter products, including the company's Peamutt Squeezy and Peamutt Balls treats.

Entries will be narrowed down to a shortlist in November, before finalists are announced in January 2027. Winners will be crowned in February, with three standout stories progressing to a public vote to decide the overall Peamutt Butter Top Dog Award.

The overall winner will receive a prize package worth more than £320, including a Pets at Home gift card, a Peamutt Butter bundle, a year's National Trust membership and additional prizes from the brand's partners.

The judging panel will include dog trainer and Peamutt Butter ambassador Janey Baker, Richard Duerr from Peamutt Butter and Oakley, winner of the company's 2025 Hunt for Peamutt competition.

Richard Duerr, managing director of F Duerr's & Sons, makers of Peamutt Butter, said: "Dogs are brilliant. They make us laugh, get us out of the house, cause plenty of chaos and somehow become a massive part of the family. There are thousands of brilliant stories out there, from dogs doing amazing things to the trainers who go above and beyond for them. We want to hear them all.

"We always say every dog has its price. Peamutt Butter tends to do the trick in our house, but every owner has their own secret weapon. We can't wait to hear what gets the nation's dogs sitting nicely, coming back when called or finally giving up the sock."

Janey Baker added: "One of the things I love about dogs is that no two are the same. They all have their own personalities, quirks and ways of keeping us on our toes.

"From incredible acts of bravery to hilarious dog walks that don't quite go to plan, everyone has a story about a dog in their life. The Peamutt Butter Awards are an excellent chance to share those stories and truly celebrate man's best friend, so we encourage everyone to enter."

Entries are free to enter online and open to dog owners, trainers, groomers and anyone wishing to nominate a deserving canine or human counterpart.