This photographer perfectly mastered dog motion, and is just one of many awarded shots that will make you smile

Multiple-exposure showing four images of a golden retriever leaping off a dock into a misty lake at sunrise, creating a splash as it joyfully enter the water

Who won the title International Dog Photographer of the Year? (Image credit: Shandess Griffin / Dog Photography Awards)

Step into the world where fur, emotion, and speed collide – the Dog Photography Awards have just unveiled its stunning 2025 winners, proving once again why this competition is a must-watch for photographers and dog lovers alike.

With over 2,000 entries from 48 countries – including China, Australia, Italy, and Finland – this year's contest pushed boundaries in storytelling, technique, and pure canine charisma. And this year, the new Open category invited photographers to break free of traditional boundaries and experiment.

Let's take a look at some awarded imagery, and if you want to see more, visit the Dog Dog Photography Awards website.

International Dog Photographer of the Year

A series of six adorable puppy faces peek over a white background, showcasing their playful expressions and fluffy fur — I'm All Ears (Image credit: Belinda Richards / Dog Photography Awards)

I'm All Ears by Belinda Richards

Belinda Richards is an internationally acclaimed pet photographer, educator, and the creative force behind Frog Dog Studios in Melbourne, Australia. Crowned the Australian Pet Photographer of the Year in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, Belinda has redefined pet portraiture with her signature blend of humour, empathy, and high-end artistry.

Dogs & People

A person in a white turtleneck sweater holds a French Bulldog wrapped in a brown blanket, against a dark background — May the Fur Be With You (Image credit: Jane Thomson / Dog Photography Awards)

1st Place: May the Fur Be With You by Jane Thomson

"Rescued from a hoarding situation in Las Vegas, Petunia now thrives in Eugene as an ambassador for Luvable Dog Rescue. She is in training to become a therapy dog, a role well suited to her calm and affectionate nature. With her striking resemblance to Yoda, this portrait was imagined as both a tribute to her resilience and a playful nod to her otherworldly presence."

Portrait Outdoor

A white dog stands on a series of light grey concrete stairs, gazing upward against a minimalistic backdrop — The Shape of Stillness (Image credit: Denisa Zbranková Albaniová / Dog Photography Awards)

1st Place: The Shape of Stillness by Denisa Zbranková Albaniová

A lone white shepherd stands on a pale stone staircase, gazing upward into a dreamlike expanse.

Documentary

A lively pack of diverse dogs running through a dusty path in a lush green landscape — Dog Sanctuaries Around the World (Image credit: Angelica Briones / Dog Photography Awards)

2nd Place: Dog Sanctuaries Around the World by Angelica Briones

"There are around 200 million stray dogs worldwide, living in vastly different conditions. Some are cared for by their communities, but most are not as lucky. Stray dogs often find me when I travel—drawn to me like I wear a magnet. These moments inspired Dog Sanctuaries Around the World. I have visited seven sanctuaries so far, from Hawaii to Costa Rica to Thailand - documenting their work. I gift them the photos I take to use freely, as a show of my appreciation for all they do. Each place is unique, but all share one goal: to offer dogs safety, dignity, and a chance at a better life."

Studio

Two slender dogs enthusiastically play, mid-leap, against a dark gray backdrop. Their dynamic pose and joyful expressions convey energy and fun — The Kiss (Image credit: Mia Tepelea / Dog Photography Awards)

2nd Place: The Kiss by Mia Tepelea

Two slender dogs jump together against a dark gray background, their happy faces showing a moment of playful connection.

Open

A table laden with various foods, surrounded by a curious mix of dogs and cats expressing anticipation and excitement — Suppertime (Image credit: Katie Brockman / Dog Photography Awards)

1st Place: Suppertime by Katie Brockman

"A modern reimagining of The Last Supper, this image is a composite of more than a dozen separate shots. My goal was to not just pay homage to an iconic piece of art, but to also showcase the unique personalities of all the pets I was fortunate enough to photograph."

Action

A golden retriever leaps off a dock into a misty lake at sunrise, captured in a series of images showing its joyful splay as it enters the water — Leaps for Days (Image credit: Shandess Griffin / Dog Photography Awards)

3rd Place: Leaps for Days by Shandess Griffin

A golden retriever leaps off a dock into a misty lake at sunrise, captured in a series of superimposed images showing its joyful splay as it enters the water.

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Kim is a photographer, editor and writer with work published internationally. She holds a Master's degree in Photography and Media and was formerly Technique Editor at Digital Photographer, focusing on the art and science of photography. Blending technical expertise with visual insight, Kim explores photography's time-honored yet ever-evolving role in culture. Through her features, tutorials, and gear reviews, she aims to encourage readers to explore the medium more deeply and embrace its full creative potential.

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