Sunshine Coast rescue dog Bear was one of several dogs to be recognised in The Australian Dog of the Year Awards presented by dog photographer Kerry Martin of Puppy Tales website.
Nominated by International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), border collie cross Bear was awarded the All Rescues Are Special (ARAS) medal, sponsored by The Saltiest Dog.
Bear was a rescue dog who found his true purpose as a conservation hero. After being surrendered by multiple families, Bear joined the University of South Australia’s Detection Dogs for Conservation team. He has since saved more than 100 koalas, proving that with the right support, rescue animals can achieve extraordinary things.
From therapy, military and conservation detection dogs to trailblazing paw-thletes, pawtrolling protectors and resilient warriors and more, dogs enrich our world in ways no one else can. The Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year Awards honour these remarkable canine companions.
“Now in its fifth year, the Australian Dog of the Year Awards proves that dogs are more than just pets—they are gifts,” says Kerry Martin, an international award-winning pet photographer, author and founder of Puppy Tales.
“This year’s winners and finalists highlight the extraordinary ways dogs contribute to our lives—from inspiring hope and resilience to saving lives and advancing veterinary and medical fields.”
The Australian Dog of the Year 2025 is Gold Coast border collie Elle.
Nominated by Deaf Dog Rescue Australia Elle is a deaf rescue dog who has transformed lives with her resilience, empathy and unwavering spirit. From excelling in agility competitions using sign language to supporting anxious children as a school therapy dog, Elle breaks down barriers and inspires everyone she meets, proving that challenges can be overcome with love and determination.
The People’s Choice Award went to Daphne, a Tibetan Spaniel from Melbourne, nominated by Second Chance Animal Rescue.
Daphne, a 12-year-old former therapy dog’s miraculous recovery from a severe brain injury has inspired countless people. Defying all odds, Daphne regained her ability to walk, see, and thrive, proving that recovery is possible and that the bond between dogs and their people can inspire hope and healing.
The Paws-itive Change Award recognises inspiring stories of transformation brought about by dogs in our society, with a kind donation from Pet Circle. This year’s award goes to Sunday from Sydney who became the first Australian animal to undergo an osseointegration procedure, involving a hybrid Cobalt-Titanium implant in her tibia, after her leg was amputated as a puppy. Her groundbreaking procedure has paved the way for other dogs to access innovative treatments and inspired advancements in human medical care, creating a ripple effect of positive change for countless lives.
Winners, nominees and voters received prizes worth $20,000 including $1,000 donation by Puppy Tales to the Australian Dog of the Year winner’s preferred charity and $250 to the People’s Choice’s nominated charity.
