Credit: NSDA.
The search is underway for the UK’s most inspiring canine classroom companion, as Swansea University and the National School Dog Alliance (NSDA) open nominations for the 2026 UK School Dog of the Year Awards.
With growing evidence that dogs can reduce anxiety, improve behaviour and support learning, the awards celebrate the remarkable ways school dogs are transforming pupil wellbeing, confidence and engagement – whether by reassuring nervous readers, offering calm companionship, or providing additional emotional support.
Schools can nominate their dog in one of four categories:
- 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)
The awards, which close on 27 March 2026, recognise not only exceptional dogs but also the schools that integrate them responsibly into everyday education.
Hosted by the NSDA and Swansea University, in partnership with the All-Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Welfare Group (APDAWG) and supported by the Pet Education Partnership, the awards attracted strong Welsh representation last year, with three finalists from schools in Wales.
This year’s winners will receive a trophy and a prize pack for their dog, including treats and a bespoke training package, during a special reception at the Palace of Westminster on 13 May. An online celebration for all entrants will take place in June.
Professor Helen Lewis, Chair of the NSDA, said: “These awards aim to shine a spotlight on the innovative and responsible ways schools are integrating dogs into their learning environments to improve learning outcomes. They also recognise those schools working to ensure that the activities of their school dog are managed safely and ethically, with the welfare of both students and the dog in mind.”
Dr Marc Abraham OBE, campaigning vet, filmmaker and secretariat of APDAWG, said: “More and more schools are discovering the benefits a school dog can bring – from improving pupil wellbeing and fostering social and emotional development, to strengthening human–animal relationships.”
The 2026 judging panel includes experts from TV, education and the canine world, including ITV newsreader Lucrezia Millarini and her pooch Milo; Hannah Molloy, TV dog behaviourist; Irene Campbell MP, Chair of APDAWG; alongside Dr Marc Abraham OBE and members of the National School Dog Alliance.
Nominate your school’s canine hero.
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