15th Annual Hero Dog Awards Announced

2025 Hero Dog Award Winners
Credit: Capehart Photography

 (Press Release) Palm Beach, FL (June 3, 2025) — American Humane Society, the country’s first national animal welfare organization, announced the launch of its 15th annual Hero Dog Awards®. This nationwide search celebrates the most courageous and inspiring dogs from across the country. 

---

Past honorees have been ordinary dogs that do extraordinary things, including serving on the frontlines as working and military dogs, saving lives, assisting their human companions, and contributing significantly to the wellbeing of people everywhere. 
 
“Through the Hero Dog Awards, we celebrate the incredible bond between humans and animals,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “We are proud to mark 15 years of sharing uplifting stories about heroes on both ends of the leash and giving these remarkable dogs the recognition they deserve.” 
 
Starting today, people across the U.S. can nominate their most heroic furry friends at www.americanhumane.org/herodogawards.  
 
This year’s five categories include: 
·       Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs 
·       Service and Guide/Hearing Dogs 
·       Therapy Dogs 
·       Military Dogs 
·       Emerging Hero and Shelter Dogs 
 
Each year, the Hero Dog Awards honor exceptional dogs from around the country. Following public voting, the program culminates in a gala awards show. Past celebrity participants include Carson Kressley, Christie Brinkley, Kyle Richards, Beth Stern, Kristin Chenoweth, and many others. 
 
For more information about the Hero Dog Awards®, visit www.americanhumane.org/herodogawards to learn about sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected].