Retired Essex Police dog Baloo wins The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award competition at Crufts 2025

Retired Essex police dog Baloo won The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award competition at Crufts 2025.

The eight-year-old was a finalist in the Extraordinary Life of a Working Dog category with her owner, Mandy Chapman.

In October 2018, while on duty, Baloo was hit by a suspect’s car fleeing a crime scene, resulting in life-changing injuries and the amputation of one of her legs.

Baloo retired with Mandy, a former police dog handler. As she recovered, Baloo was taken by Mandy to see the team at Essex Police who were impacted by the incident.

These visits soon became a regular occurrence as it became clear how beneficial they were for the mental health of officers and staff.

Their efforts led to introduction of the Oscar Kilo wellbeing and trauma support dogs service – and there are now more than 250 caring canines nationwide.

Mandy and Baloo also visit schools, care homes, Guides, Scouts and thousands of other community groups.

Baloo’s victory was announced on the final day of Crufts by campaigner Josephine Hamilton and Paralympian Ellie Simmonds.

Mandy and Baloo received a cheque for £5,000 from The Kennel Club Charitable Trust for their dog charity of choice: Essex Retired Police Dog Fund.

Mandy said: “She’s an amazing dog through and through. Despite her disability and the terrible injuries she sustained, she has come through it all so well and finds joy in life, as well as giving joy in life, every single day.

“You can see the difference she makes to people when she goes to see them. She proves that however hard things get, you can get through it. She’s super-soppy and sharing her is so rewarding, I love every second of it.

“I can see why this competition goes to public vote because who on earth could choose, but thank you to each and every person who voted for her.”

Helen Kerfoot, Crufts show manager, said: “What Baloo has achieved, the courage she has shown and the support she now gives others is extraordinary. Mandy and Baloo’s incredible bond and the work they do together is inspiring.

“We were honoured to celebrate each of our finalists. The companionship these heroic dogs provide to their owners and their contribution to society is remarkable. We thank our finalists for sharing their stories with us – they are all winners and demonstrate exactly why dogs are known as man’s best friend.”