Holyrood Dog of the Year

Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust explains: “We are so grateful to all MSPs and pooches of all pawlitical persuasions taking part in Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025. It’s an opportunity for politicians to recognise the vital role that dogs play in so many households as an integral member of the family, no matter how big that family is, whether it consists of adults and children or a human and their dog. We want to work with MSPs to raise awareness of our policy calls so that we can improve dog welfare and ensure that everyone can benefit from the human-animal bond and the happiness that dog ownership can bring.”

Jannine Edgar, Chief Executive of The Kennel Club continued: “Holyrood Dog of the Year celebrates the strong bond not only between MSPs and their dogs, but also the vital role that dogs play as beloved family members. Dogs provide us with companionship and unconditional love, as well as keeping us active, and we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to benefit from the happiness that dog ownership can bring.”

The Holyrood Dog of the Year competition has enabled us and Dogs Trust to engage with Scottish parliamentarians who are passionate about dogs and to identify those who are willing to raise canine issues and policies in the Scottish Parliament.

The media are invited to watch the politicians ‘show’ their dogs and raise awareness of key issues which affect canine welfare. Past issues raised include the effects of fireworks on dogs and the importance of dogs training and socialisation.

In a bid to win the ‘pawblic’ vote, MSPs call for their supporters to vote for their four-legged friends. In conjunction with the public vote, judges also assess the pooches based on their heroic deeds and winning personalities to crown the overall winner.

MSP Name: Tess White
Region/Constituency: North East Region

Dog’s Name:
Kura San
Breed/type:
Flat Coated Retriever
Sex:
Female
Age:
11.5 yrs
Colour:
Black…. Well Black with a Grey muzzle 😉
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Friendly, playful, social; curious; calm; loving; trust
What does your dog bring to your household?
Love, calmness, fun, happiness. She is great for our physical health (daily walks) and mental health (she is always happy and loves cuddles)
Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
Complete trust and endless love
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Strengthen laws to stamp out animal cruelty; where we see it call it out/report it; foster if possible, to give dogs in need a safe space and love to heal; encourage people to adopt shelter dogs before buying puppies.
Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
She’s a very friendly old girl now who still thinks she is a puppy – she is in pain most days with lumbosacral stenosis but never lets it stop her (we have to do that for her). Sadly diagnosed with Lar Par (GOLPP) this year, we know this will be her last Holyrood Dog Show… her last chance to win! But even if she doesn’t, she loves taking part. An adventure 😉

MSP Name: Clare Adamson MSP
Region/Constituency: Motherwell & Wishaw

Dog’s Name:
Sam
Breed/type:
Labrador
Sex:
Male
Age:
3.5 years
Colour:
Black

What personality traits do you value in a dog?  Sam is a very happy and lovable boy with a very waggy tail whenever there are people or treats involved! He is a loving dog who does not hesitate to climb up on your lap and demand a cuddle at any given point. He loves playing with his brother, Frodo, and making everyone around him smile by acting like a typical Labrador. He has the best traits!

What does your dog bring to your household?He helps me get up bright and early and gives our family a reason to get out, exercise and enjoy the beautiful parks across Motherwell and Wishaw. When I get home from a busy day, he and his brother are there to greet me. He is a very important four-legged member of our family, and enjoying walks with him is fantastic for mental health and wellbeing. 

Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.

Sam is a very good boy, who never fails to put a smile on my face. The love of a Labrador is unconditional and I am so lucky to have double the love with Sam and Frodo! Having a pet who lifts the mood of everyone around him is incredibly special.

What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?

Before getting a dog, do your research! Getting a dog is a great responsibility that you have to ensure you are ready for. Research each breed thoroughly to see what type of dog would suit your lifestyle, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
Sam should be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025 because he is adorable, funny and caring, and has brought so much happiness to so many people. He can’t wait to show off his good boy skills to his dog friends, and join them in raising awareness of the fantastic work carried out by Dogs Trust.

MSP Name: Sue Webber MSP
Region/Constituency: Lothian Region

Dog’s Name:
Alfie
Breed/type:
Hungarian Vizsla
Sex:
Male
Age:
3
Colour:Russet Red // Ginger

What personality traits do you value in a dog?
His loyalty, his gentleness, his cheekiness, his bounciness and his friendly nature towards dogs and humans. Then at night he loves to cuddle in on the sofa, very much a Velcro vizsla.

What does your dog bring to your household?
Alfie makes us laugh, he loves to be at the centre of attention, in a good way. He welcomes all our visitors to our home, wiggling and showing off as he brings them his “baby”. Alfie takes great pride in guarding the house when we are out and about. Our neighbours regularly comment on how Alfie waits, looking out the window until we get home. Alfie makes sure we all get lots of exercise and fresh air, either on the Water of Leith or up in the Pentlands.

Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
My life has changed completely in the last three years. I would never have imagined that such a close bond would be possible between a human and an Alfie. He knows who the boss is at home (that is Alasdair not me!) and as Alfie gets that wee bit older everything is easier, there is a real connection between us.
I miss him dreadfully when I am away, and I know he misses me too.
We love our walks. His happiness is infectious, and the “stick wiggle” as he trots along beside me makes me beam with pride. The laughs you have with him on walks with his various sticks and zooming around the fields and riverbanks, bounding over to the local fitness guru training in the park, he loves to bond with everyone and becomes their instant friend.

What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Dogs deserve to have an owner that loves and cares for them and puts them first.
Making sure they have regular check up at the Vets, giving them enough exercise and stimulation, along with a loving home that makes them feel safe and secure.
The dogs should be well trained, so they know the rules, have excellent recall and are respectful of other dogs, humans, and their surroundings. Humans should ensure that dogs are kept under close control when in the countryside to respect other animals and farmers.
We need to make sure that dogs are not used for excessive breeding, and I personally do not believe in the use of e-collars.
We also need to make sure that when we get a dog that it has come from a reputable breeder, and that we get that dog chipped ASAP. We need to do all we can to stop dog theft and I will be supporting my colleague Maurice Golden’s private members bill – Dog Abduction Bill – as it progresses through parliament.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
Alfie is loved by so many, it is time that Holyrood Dog of the Year recognised how amazing and wonderful he is and crown him champion!

MSP Name: Lorna Slater MSP
Region/Constituency: Lothian Region

Dog’s Name:
Nova
Breed/type:
Cocker Spaniel
Sex:
Female
Age:
Six
Colour:
Golden
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Love and Loyalty! Nova is never happier than when she is running or being showered with attention.
What does your dog bring to your household?
Nova lights up any room she is in. There is no better feeling than to open your front door after a long day and have the loving face of a dog ready to cover you in unconditional love.

Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
Dogs are so special, they love you no matter what. The joy Nova brings to my team makes all of our days brighter. As a Spaniel she has boundless energy and wants to run all day. She keeps us all active and on our toes as she continues to explore the world.

What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Protecting and restoring our Green spaces is not only important for humans but for the good of our dogs. Nova has enjoyed many a trip to Holyrood Park and longs for the day it is car free so she can enjoy it safely with her four-legged friends (on leads!). She is a keen swimmer so keeping our waters and beaches clean helps protect her when she is ducking and diving in the forth.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
Nova is a star! She brings such joy and happiness to our world that we will never be able to repay. Her smile alone is worthy of the award!

MSP Name: Jenni Minto
Region/Constituency: Argyll & Bute

Dog’s Name:
Jim
Breed/type:
Border Collie
Sex:
Male
Age:
Eight
Colour:
Black & White
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Affection and a sense of fun - yes, dogs do appreciate play and have a sense of humour! Also being well behaved with people and animals. I think that comes from having trust in their owners and knowing that we care for them and will look after them.
What does your dog bring to your household?
Jim’s affection at the end of a busy day is a real de-stress! But he’s a hard taskmaster - getting us out walking four times a day, rain, hail or shine. If he was human he would be a well-being counsellor.
Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
Jim is one of the family, and never happier when we are all together. And the same goes for us. In the evening he waits loyally at the window for me to come back from Parliament. Once he has his pack rounded up Jim sits happily waiting for ear rubs. Then he’ll remember that we all need exercise and begin agitating for an evening walk.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
We need to be kind - and to convert kindness into legislation. We must work to end cruel puppy farming and irresponsible breeding and trading. The abuse of animals must be discovered and punished. Organisations supporting abandoned animals, or those given up because owners can no longer look after them or afford to feed them, should be supported.
Finally, as responsible dog owners we need to set an example and demonstrate each day the best ways to look after our dogs and enjoy their company.
Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
As a failed sheepdog, Jim might have been abandoned - or worse. But a shaky start in life hasn’t held him back. He’s a smart, affectionate and handsome boy and a great advert for human/canine companionship.

 MSP Name: Emma Roddick
Region/Constituency: Highlands and Islands

Dog’s Name:
Sparky
Breed/type:
English Bull Terrier
Sex:
Female
Age:
3
Colour:
White
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Joy
What does your dog bring to your household?
Energy, unconditional love, and appreciation. I don’t live with Sparky – she is my sister’s dog – but we spend time together now and again and she’s made it into a few official shots.
Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
I love seeing Sparky; she is always so boisterous and looks at me like I have all the answers.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
We can’t trust that everyone is going to be good to animals or legislate as if that’s the case. It’s better for good owners to have to prove it than risk bad owners hurting dogs.
Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
She came all the way from Alness to support her aunt Emma and constantly reminds me that I need to find time in my life to have a dog of my own one day.

MSP Name: Craig Hoy MSP
Region/Constituency: South Scotland

Dog’s Name:
Roma
Breed/type:
Black Labrador
Sex:
Bitch
Age:
10
Colour:
Black
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Roma is a brilliant natured Lab. She loves food and can’t wait for her next walk. She is keen on swimming and is generally a great companion.
What does your dog bring to your household?
I don’t live with Roma she is a friend's dog but she is great to be around and is very friendly.
Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
I know Roma through Ian (her owner) and I like to spend time with her.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Be proactive in including animal rights in legislation in Holyrood and be tougher on the sale and purchase of dogs.
Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
There is no other dog like Roma, she deserves it!

MSP Name: David Torrance MSP
Region/Constituency: Kirkcaldy

Dog’s Name:
Buster
Breed/type:
Golden Retriever
Sex:
Male
Age:
8
Colour:
American Mahogony
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
I value each dog for their own special quirks and traits – just like with children, you don’t get to choose what you end up with! But a well-looked after dog will usually be a happy dog, and that’s the best trait in a dog, in my opinion. Other than that, I like a dog with a sense of humour, or with funny little quirks – the flip of an ear when listening to something, a funny bark when they’re hungry, the way they roll in the snow or sand.
What does your dog bring to your household?
Buster brings loads of love, affection and companionship. He lights up every room he enters with his bright smile and warm eyes. We love to listen to his joyful steps as he trots around the house. He is a sweet boy and we couldn’t live without him!
Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
Buster and I have spent the last eight years together, and I love him more and more every day. As every season passes, I reflect back on the memories we’ve made and delight in every new adventure – walks in the snow, runs along the beach, holidays up in Aviemore. Our dogs are only with us for a few short years – but for them, it is their entire life. It’s my aim to fill his life with the best memories – belly rubs, long walk and plenty of table scraps.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Walk, walks and more walks! Not only is it essential for the health of your dog, it does wonders for your own physical and mental health. Our dogs have the potential to live happy and healthy lives well into old age if they’re kept in the best possible shape. Alongside regular exercise, a healthy diet and regular visits with the vet will set your pet up for a happy and healthy life.
Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
Not only does he light up our family’s day, he is an integral part of my community, what with his involvement with my Scout group and as he joins me on my visits to various organisations throughout my constituency. Wherever he goes, he is loved by everyone.

MSP Name: Mark Ruskell
Region/Constituency: Mid-Scotland and Fife

Dog’s Name:
Bert
Breed/type:
Greyhound
Sex:
Male
Age:
12 and a half
Colour:
Brindle
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Easy going gentle nature, tolerance (of cats, hens and other animals!), playfulness (at times), good communication and responsiveness.
What does your dog bring to your household?
Bert has been a constant and much loved companion in our family since he found his ‘forever home’ with us a decade ago. As a busy family he has slotted in so well to our lifestyle with his easy going and very adaptable nature. He is just as happy joining us for lazy days around the home and garden as he is going on active holidays in the caravan around Scotland. Bert lives in a household with a cat and hens but always shows calm around other animals. He loves cuddles and attention from everyone and enjoys meeting new people who come to visit. We all enjoy different aspects of his character and my youngest son still loves playing tuggy and chase games with him even though Bert is getting a lot older now. Bert sees it as his duty to clear away any uneaten food around the house and his long nose needs watched around dining tables. Overall he’s become a constant and steady part of our life over the years and been there through the challenges we have dealt with together. He’s helped our boys grow up and is still adored by everyone.
Tell us about the bond you have with your dog.
As a rescue ex-racing greyhound Bert still had physical and some behavioural challenges when we first got him. But over time he’s grown to become more trusting and less anxious, that has been a process of healing that I have been through with him. I think I have developed a deeper level of understanding with him as a result and sometimes sharing a glance is all that we need to communicate. He’s always the first to greet me when I come home from a busy day in parliament and we can sometimes be found having a snooze on the sofa together.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
I’ve realised the importance as Bert has got older of having effective pet insurance and regular contact with his vet so we can keep on top of problems early on and get advice on diet, exercise and other issues.
It’s important that dog owners understand the law and their responsibilities, it is never the dog’s fault if problems arise- it’s always the owners. Dogs need to be effectively controlled especially around livestock. Not everyone feels comfortable around dogs and they can cause problems, so proper control including microchipping and even remembering to pick up dog poo is critical. Training and understanding how children interact with your dog is also important.
Thinking about the dog’s whole life and care is needed, initiatives such as the Dogs Trust’s ‘Canine Care Card’ are important to ensure a dog’s welfare is considered if the owner passes away. There is much we can do as individuals to support re-homing initiatives and pet food banks. Bert originally came through the Scottish Greyhound Sanctuary who continue to do wonderful work.
As MSPs we can all look at ways to improve the life of dogs through tightening the law. I’ve been concerned about issues such as canine fertility clinics, unlicensed breeding, dog thefts and electric shock collars as well as greyhound racing. We need to set the right protections and responsibilities in law to keep dogs healthy and safe.
Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
Bert won the HDOTY Public Vote in 2017 and I’m entering him again as his story and journey has now inspired me to take action in the Scottish Parliament to tackle the injuries and deaths of other racing greyhounds. The Greyhound Racing (Offences) Bill will, if passed, effectively become ‘Bert’s Law’ as it seeks to end the racing practices which resulted in his leg injuries during his racing career. Bert shows that with love and care injured racing greyhounds can be rehabilitated, but that we also need to protect them from harm too.

MSP Name: Christine Grahame MSP with Dog Name: Summer (9yo KCC Spaniel)
Region/Constituency: Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale Constituency

Why have you chosen to enter with a Borders Pet Rescue rescue dog?
I want to highlight the important work of local rescue centres in helping dogs like Summer by picking up the pieces left by irresponsible and cruel breeders. Summer was used for intensive breeding for years until she no longer could be when she was cast aside. Borders Pet Rescue have given her a second chance at life, and, despite her difficult past, she is now a friendly, happy dog who’s now being properly cared for and loved. I have long been a supporter of Borders pet Rescue as well as campaigning against irresponsible breeding, having recently introduced my Welfare of Dogs (Scotland) Act (2025) to tackle this, and hope entering with Summer will raise further awareness around the issues with this and the importance of prospective dog owners doing their due diligence when getting a dog so they don’t further feed in to this cruel trade. Summer is currently still looking for a suitable permanent home, alongside her companion dog Buzz, which I hope will be found soon, more details here: https://borderspetrescue.org/adopt-a-pet/summer-cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-dog/

What personality traits do you value in a dog?
A good temperament. Dogs have so much love to give and seeing their individual personalities come out is always a joy.

What do you think dogs bring to a household?
The right dog for the right household quickly becomes a much loved member of the family. They bring companionship, entertainment and a lot of joy to those who have them.

What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
I think one of the most important steps in this is the first step is to ask yourself why you want a dog, if it is the right time and you know what this will involve. Source your dog from an ethical, responsible breeder or rescue centre. Do not buy online or from the back of a van. If you are getting a puppy ensure they are properly bred with checks done for health issues and receive the best start in life, being kept with their mother for long enough and appropriately cared for and socialised. Research the breed and make sure you choose a dog that is well matched for your lifestyle. Be realistic with yourself about whether you have the time and resources to care for a dog for the rest of their life. Take time to consider the decision and never, ever buy on impulse. Reputable rescue centres will of course always make sure you are matched with a suitable dog and provide support in the rehoming process, so I would always encourage prospective owners to consider a rescue dog.

Why should you and your Borders Pet Rescue rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
To recognise the fantastic work done by local rescue centres like Borders Pet Rescue and to highlight the need to put irresponsible breeders out of business. Summer has had a rough start in life but, thanks to Borders Pet Rescue, she is getting a second chance at life and would be the perfect winner for Holyrood Dog of the Year.

MSP Name: Meghan Gallacher MSP
Region/Constituency: Central Scotland

Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust former rescue dog?
I have chosen a Dogs Trust dog because, since becoming an MSP, I have had the pleasure of visiting the Dogs Trust centre in Uddingston many times and I would love to give the title of Holyrood Dog of the Year to one of their bright, bubbly little faces.
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
The personality traits I value in a dog are, loyalty, playful, affectionate and protectiveness.
What do you think dogs bring to a household?
I think, essentially, a dog makes a home.
They bring so much love to a home. They also make the home feel safe, well-entertained, comforted and so much happiness.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
We need to show dogs the same amount of love, loyalty and protectiveness that they show us. Once a dog attaches itself to an owner or an individual, it lives only to make sure they are happy and I think we need too replicate that to them.
Why should you and your Dogs Trust former rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
I think my Dogs Trust former rescue dog and I be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year because, a former rescue dog hasn’t been crowned yet and I would absolutely love to see them crowned Champion as they deserve it and I know they would love to brag to all their other ‘paw-ls…’

MSP Name: Jamie Halcro Johnston
Region/Constituency: Highlands and Islands

Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust former rescue dog?
Due to the nature of my job and its requirements to constantly travel, I am unable to commit myself to a dog of my own. Dogs require and deserve round-the-clock attention and love from their owners, and unfortunately, due to the nature of my job, I am unable to provide that currently. However, I absolutely adore dogs and believe they are the most special of creatures. They have the unique ability to provide unconditional love and deserve our respect. I believe that rescuing a dog is one of those most rewarding and fulfilling things you can do. Every dog deserves as many chances as it needs for love and happiness. Unfortunately, the only downside to dogs is that they can’t live forever, therefore the life they do have should be filled with love and care whether they’re young or old, sick or healthy, big or little.
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
I adore all dogs for many reasons. One of which being that each and every dog has a distinct personality that is different from the others. Each will do that one unique thing that their owner will adore and never forget. Some can pick up a tennis ball just by its fluff, some paddle their legs before they’ve even been put in the bath yet, some know just what look to give you that says, “are you going to share your food?”, some can dance, and some like to spin for their dinner! They’re the most loyal and affectionate creatures with an admirable sense of curiosity that can leave us inspired to lead a more adventurous life. Some are independent and confident while others are shy and needy. They will love us unconditionally which is a unique and transformative experience.
What do you think dogs bring to a household?
A dog can truly bring magic to any household. Their ability to spread joy and positivity is remarkable. They offer companionship, unconditional love, and acceptance. Additionally, dogs provide numerous health benefits, such as lowering bloody pressure, reducing stress, offering emotional support, and encouraging more cardiovascular activities.
Dogs also contribute to emotional well-being, increased physical activity, structure and routine, security and protection, social interaction, laughter and entertainment. They teach responsibility to young children and provide a sense of purpose.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Dogs are unique and special creatures that give us unconditional love, and we should reciprocate that love. Every dog deserves a happy and healthy life. To ensure this, they need a balanced diet, including occasional treats, plenty of exercise, and opportunities to socialise and play. Proper grooming and pampering are also important, along with routine veterinary care, dogs should have a safe, comfortable living space free from stress, and they deserve ample quality time and attention.

Why should you and your Dogs Trust former rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
Bringing a rescue dog into your home is like welcoming a new chapter filled with love, joy, and endless tail wags. These special companions often come with stories of resilience and courage, making their presence even more meaningful. Each day with a rescue dog is a reminder of the incredible bond between humans and animals. They teach us about forgiveness, loyalty, and the simple pleasures in life. Whether it’s a play in the park, a snuggle on the couch, or the pure excitement they show when you walk through the door, rescue dogs fill our lives with unmatched happiness and gratitude, adopting a rescue not only changes your life but also enriches it in ways you never imagined.

MSP Name: Maurice Golden
Region/Constituency: North East Scotland

Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust former rescue dog?
Every dog deserves a loving home and partnering with a former rescue dog is a great opportunity to highlight the work of Dogs Trust and others in trying to make sure every dog gets that chance.
What personality traits do you value in a dog?
Friendliness and a playful disposition are always wonderful to see in a dog, especially in a pet dog that’s at the heart of the family.
What do you think dogs bring to a household?
A household with a dog is a happy household. They bring love, affection and companionship, and it’s hard not to have a smile on your face with a dog around playing and creating memories.
What do you think we can do to ensure that all dogs live happy and healthy lives?
Fundamentally, it’s about not treating dogs as objects but remembering they are living beings who need love and care. That’s the basis for everything that follows, whether government policy, commercial services or anything else. We need regulations and support in place that takes that approach as its first principal.
Why should you and your Dogs Trust former rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2025?
I’m proud to partner with a former rescue dog and it would be great to show that any and every dog can thrive and succeed when they’re given the love and care they deserve.