Devon MP's guide dog voted Westminster's top dog

Torbay MP Steve Darling said he hoped Jennie's win would inspire "more conversations about accessibility"

A Devon MP's guide dog has been crowned leader of the pack in a dog contest at the Houses of Parliament.

Torbay MP Steve Darling's six-year-old golden retriever Jennie won the public vote for Westminster Dog of the Year 2025, beating off competition from 17 other parliamentarian's pooches.

Darling said Jennie, who is also part Labrador, was "more than my guide dog, she's my companion, my bridge to others and now officially Westminster's top dog".

He added: "This award isn't just about Jennie - it's about every guide dog and assistance animal helping people live independently and with dignity."

Darling said he hoped Jennie's win would inspire "more conversations about accessibility and the power of canine companionship".

He added: "Her win is a celebration of inclusion, resilience and the vital role assistance dogs play in public life. I'm incredibly proud of her."

Six-year-old Jennie saw off competition from 17 other MP's dogs

Darling, who has been an MP since 2024, said Jennie often "bolts and rolls around a local park" on their way to and from the Houses of Parliament.

He said the pair's bond was founded on "100% trust between us".

He added: "On one occasion when leaving Parliament, Jennie recalled that our usual route was challenging and chose to take a safer, different route 150m away from the obstacles - a very smart choice."

The competition is organised by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club and celebrates "the bond between MPs and their dogs, while raising awareness of animal welfare and responsible ownership", the MP's office said.