A four-month-old pup named Kevin has been named the winner of the 2025 Petmania Puppy of the Year competition.
Hosted by Irish pet company Petmania, the tail-wagging finale took place at Dublin’s Pet Expo on Saturday, 18 October.
Marking the tenth year of the adorable contest, the competition welcomed a record-breaking 1,700 puppies competing for the prestigious title.
The judges first shortlisted three finalists from each county, with two rounds of public voting choosing the 26 county finalists, before the judges selected the four provincial winners and, ultimately, the All-Ireland winner at the live Pet Expo in Dublin.
In the end, Kevin the Irish Wolfhound, a four-month-old pup from Galway City, won the judge's hearts thanks to his "personality, obedience, and special charm".
Proud owners Erin Rietz and John Crowley received a prize package worth €2,500, including 12 months of grooming visits at Petmania, a year’s supply of food from BETA, a two-night stay in a dog-friendly hotel courtesy of Ireland’s Blue Book, as well as a professional photoshoot and a brand ambassador contract with Petmania for the next year.
Speaking on the win, Erin Rietz and John Crowley said:
"We had been looking for a big dog for so long, and it took almost two years before we found Kevin. We were absolutely set on getting a female puppy, but when we went to choose one from the litter, Kevin completely charmed us. He watched our every move until we were about to leave, then calmly sat between our legs - Kevin chose us!"
Other winners announced on the night included:
South Leinster winner: Willow, a Jack Russell cross from Kilkenny
Munster winner: Indiana Bones, a Maltipoo from Tipperary
Connacht winner: Kevin, an Irish Wolfhound from Galway
Ulster and North Leinster: Brody from Longford
