Our Awards
The Top Dog Business Awards recognise the hard work and dedication of businesses across various categories, including:
Walker Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog walking business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Professionalism and Reliability
• Punctuality and reliability in adhering to schedules.
• Clear and professional communication with clients regarding bookings, changes, and any incidents.
• Evidence of insurance coverage (Company/policy number), including public liability insurance.
Dog Welfare and Safety
• Understanding and practice of animal welfare regulations, including the 5 Welfare Needs as outlined by the Animal Welfare Act.
• Adherence to safety protocols, such as managing multiple dogs, securing dogs in transit, and first aid knowledge.
• Use of appropriate equipment like leads, harnesses, and muzzles where necessary, ensuring the safety of the dogs and the public.
Qualifications and Knowledge
• Relevant certifications in animal care, dog behaviour, or first aid.
• Continuous professional development, such as attending workshops or courses related to dog walking or animal behaviour.
Client and Community Engagement
• Positive client testimonials and feedback reflecting quality service.
• Contribution to the local community, such as volunteering or participating in local events, supporting animal shelters, or raising awareness on responsible dog ownership.
Kennels Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog kennel business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You have the appropriate licence with the local authority, you will need to attach a copy of your licence
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business Awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Animal Welfare and Care Standards
• Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and local authority licensing requirements (Licence Number).
• Provision of a safe, clean, and comfortable environment, including adequate space, heating, ventilation and hygiene standards.
• Daily routine that includes exercise, feeding, and socialisation, tailored to the individual needs of each dog.
• Ability to handle special needs or medical conditions, including administering medication and dealing with emergencies.
Staff Qualifications and Expertise
• Staff have relevant training and qualifications in animal care, behaviour, and first aid.
• Ongoing professional development through courses, workshops, or certifications.
• Evidence of staff expertise in handling different dog breeds and understanding their unique behavioural needs.
Health and Safety
• Strong focus on safety protocols, such as secure fencing, appropriate handling practices, and emergency plans for fire, illness, or injury.
• Compliance with regulations on cleanliness and disease control, including vaccination requirements for dogs entering the facility.
• Regular inspection and maintenance of facilities and equipment to ensure a safe environment.
Client Communication and Customer Service
• Positive client feedback and testimonials regarding service quality, responsiveness, and communication.
• Clear, transparent pricing and booking processes.
• Regular updates provided to clients, such as photos or reports on their dog’s stay and well-being.
Day Care Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog day care business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You have the appropriate licence with the local authority, you will need to attach a copy of your licence
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Animal Welfare and Care Standards
• Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and local authority regulations, ensuring the 5 Welfare Needs (diet, environment, behaviour, companionship, and health) are met.
• Provision of a safe, clean, and stimulating environment for dogs, including indoor and outdoor areas for exercise and play.
• A structured daily routine that includes socialisation, exercise, feeding, and rest periods, tailored to the needs of individual dogs.
• Ability to handle dogs with special requirements (e.g., dietary, medical, or behavioural needs).
Safety and Supervision
• Strong focus on supervision to ensure the safety of all dogs during play, rest, and interactions with other dogs.
• Adherence to staff-to-dog ratio guidelines to provide adequate supervision.
• Well-established emergency procedures, including first aid knowledge and plans for accidents, illness, or injuries.
• Secure facilities with appropriate fencing, gates, and monitoring systems to prevent escapes or incidents.
Staff Qualifications and Knowledge
• Staff are trained in dog behaviour, first aid, and handling techniques to ensure proper care and management.
• Ongoing professional development for staff through relevant courses or certifications in animal care and behaviour.
• Evidence of expertise in understanding and managing different dog breeds and behaviours in a group setting.
Client Communication and Satisfaction
• Positive client testimonials and feedback highlighting quality care, communication, and customer service.
• Clear, transparent pricing and booking systems.
• Regular updates provided to dog owners, including photos, videos, or reports on their dog’s well-being, behaviour, and activities throughout the day.
Groomer Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog grooming business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business Awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Grooming Skills and Expertise
• Demonstrated ability to provide high-quality grooming services, including bathing, trimming, clipping, and styling, appropriate to various breeds and coat types.
• Proficiency in handling special grooming requirements for dogs with skin conditions, sensitive areas, or specific breed standards.
• Use of professional-grade equipment and products to ensure safe and effective grooming, including knowledge of hypoallergenic and skin-friendly products.
• Attention to detail in maintaining a dog’s appearance and hygiene, with emphasis on precision in cutting and styling.
Dog Welfare and Handling
• Commitment to the well-being and comfort of the dog, ensuring grooming is done in a stress-free and safe environment.
• Ability to handle nervous, anxious, or difficult dogs with gentleness and patience.
• Knowledge of animal behaviour to identify signs of stress or discomfort, taking appropriate measures to keep the dog calm.
• Adherence to the Animal Welfare Act to ensure the dog’s physical and emotional needs are met throughout the grooming process.
Health and Safety
• Strict hygiene standards in the grooming environment, including cleanliness of grooming tools and spaces between sessions to prevent cross-contamination.
• Well-established safety procedures, such as proper handling of grooming equipment, secure holding areas, and first aid knowledge for accidents or injuries.
• Compliance with relevant local and national regulations, including any licensing requirements.
Client Communication and Customer Service
• Positive client feedback and testimonials regarding grooming results, professionalism, and overall service quality.
• Clear, transparent pricing, consultation, and booking systems, with flexible scheduling options where possible.
• Willingness to provide advice and aftercare tips to clients on maintaining their dog’s grooming and health between sessions.
Breeder Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog breeding business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You have the appropriate licence with the local authority, you will need to attach a copy of your licence
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business Awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Animal Welfare and Care Standards
• Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and local authority regulations, ensuring the 5 Welfare Needs (diet, environment, behaviour, companionship, and health) are met.
• Provision of a safe, clean, and stimulating environment for dogs, including indoor and outdoor areas for exercise and play.
• A structured daily routine that includes socialisation, exercise, feeding, and rest periods, tailored to the needs of individual dogs.
• Ability to handle dogs with special requirements (e.g., dietary, medical, or behavioural needs).
Safety and Supervision
• Strong focus on supervision to ensure the safety of all dogs during play, rest, and interactions with other dogs.
• Adherence to staff-to-dog ratio guidelines to provide adequate supervision.
• Well-established emergency procedures, including first aid knowledge and plans for accidents, illness, or injuries.
• Secure facilities with appropriate fencing, gates, and monitoring systems to prevent escapes or incidents.
Staff Qualifications and Knowledge
• Staff are trained in dog behaviour, first aid, and handling techniques to ensure proper care and management.
• Ongoing professional development for staff through relevant courses or certifications in animal care and behaviour.
• Evidence of expertise in understanding and managing different dog breeds and behaviours in a group setting.
Client Communication and Satisfaction
• Positive client testimonials and feedback highlighting quality care, communication, and customer service.
• Clear, transparent pricing and booking systems.
• Regular updates provided to dog owners, including photos, videos, or reports on their dog’s well-being, behaviour, and activities throughout the day.
Trainer Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog training business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business Awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Training Skills and Expertise
• Proven ability to apply effective training methods tailored to different breeds, ages, and temperaments.
• Use of positive reinforcement techniques and modern, humane training practices, avoiding aversive methods.
• Expertise in addressing a variety of behavioural issues, such as obedience, recall, aggression, and anxiety.
• Ability to train dogs for specific purposes, such as assistance, agility, or working dogs, where relevant.
Dog Welfare and Ethical Practices
• Commitment to the welfare of the dog, ensuring training is done in a stress-free, supportive environment.
• Emphasis on understanding dog behaviour, reading body language, and recognising signs of stress or discomfort during training.
• Adherence to the Animal Welfare Act and ensuring that dogs’ physical and mental needs are met throughout the training process.
• Providing individualised care to ensure training is adapted to the dog’s health, well-being, and specific needs.
Client Education and Communication
• Clear communication with clients, offering constructive feedback, progress reports, and training plans.
• Positive client testimonials highlighting the effectiveness of training, as well as the support and professionalism of the trainer.
• Flexibility in offering various training formats, such as one-to-one sessions, group classes, or online training, to meet client needs.
Professional Development and Qualifications
• Relevant certifications and memberships with professional bodies, such as the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT), the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), or other recognised organisations.
• Ongoing commitment to professional development, attending workshops, seminars, and courses to stay current with the latest training methods and behavioural science.
• Evidence of specialist expertise, such as qualifications in dealing with reactive dogs, assistance dog training, or behavioural therapy.
Retailer Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog-related retail business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Product Range and Quality
• High-quality product/s, including food, toys, grooming supplies, and accessories that cater to various dog breeds and needs.
• Availability of natural and ethically sourced products, promoting health and well-being for dogs.
• Inclusion of local or small-scale suppliers, supporting the community and offering unique products.
Customer Service and Engagement
• Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service, including knowledgeable staff who can assist with product recommendations and dog care advice.
• Positive customer feedback and testimonials regarding the shopping experience, including the approachability and professionalism of staff.
• Efforts to engage with the community through events, workshops, or loyalty programs that promote responsible pet ownership.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
• Commitment to sustainable practices, such as reducing plastic use, offering eco-friendly products, or supporting animal welfare organisations.
• Transparency in sourcing and product information, ensuring customers are informed about where products come from and how they are made.
• Initiatives to support local shelters or rescue organisations, such as fundraising events or donation programs.
New Business Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You run a dog related business based in Cumbria
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Innovation and Unique Offerings
• Evidence of innovative products or services that differentiate the business from competitors in the dog industry.
• Unique approaches to addressing customer needs or solving common problems faced by dog owners.
• Creative marketing strategies that effectively promote the business and engage with the community.
Business Growth and Performance
• Demonstrated growth and success since launching, including sales figures, customer base expansion, or service uptake.
• Ability to set and achieve realistic business goals within the first year, showcasing strategic planning and execution.
• Responsiveness to customer feedback, adapting the business model to meet market demands.
Customer Service and Community Engagement
• Commitment to providing exceptional customer service, fostering positive relationships with clients.
• Active participation in the local community through events, sponsorships, or partnerships that support dog welfare or responsible ownership.
• Positive customer reviews and testimonials reflecting satisfaction with products or services.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
• Implementation of sustainable practices in business operations, such as eco-friendly packaging, sourcing local products, or reducing waste.
• Adherence to ethical standards in all aspects of the business, including responsible sourcing, fair pricing, and transparency.
• Contributions to local animal welfare initiatives, such as partnerships with shelters or donations to rescue organisations.
Dog Vets Of The Year
You can enter this award if;
• You are a veterinary business based in Cumbria that provide care for dogs
• Your business has been running for a minimum of 6 months
• You have relevant insurance, you will need to attach a copy of your insurance certificate
• You are registered with the RCVS
• You or a representative will be available to attend the Top Dog Business Awards at The Halston, Carlisle on Friday 16th May 2025 and purchase a minimum of 1 ticket to the event at a cost of £100
The judging criteria for The Top Dog Business Awards is based on best practices and standards for dog walking businesses in the UK. Please base your entry on the following judging criteria.
Quality of Veterinary Care
• Demonstrated commitment to high standards of medical care for dogs, including preventative health measures, diagnostics, and treatment.
• Use of modern medical equipment and technology to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
• Availability of a range of services, such as surgery, dental care, emergency care, and nutrition advice, tailored to meet the needs of canine patients.
Animal Welfare and Compassion
• Evidence of a compassionate approach to animal care, prioritising the well-being and comfort of dogs during consultations and treatments.
• Commitment to addressing both the physical and emotional needs of pets, including stress-reducing techniques during visits.
• Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and adherence to best practices in veterinary ethics and animal care.
Client Communication and Education
• Clear, effective communication with pet owners regarding treatment options, costs, and follow-up care, ensuring clients feel informed and empowered.
• Provision of educational resources and support to pet owners on topics such as nutrition, behaviour, and preventative care.
• Positive client feedback and testimonials reflecting satisfaction with the level of care and service provided.
Community Engagement and Initiatives
• Active involvement in the local community, such as hosting events, workshops, or fundraising for animal welfare charities.
• Support for responsible pet ownership through outreach programs, educational talks, or partnerships with local organisations.
• Contributions to the wellbeing of the community’s dogs through initiatives like free health checks or vaccination drives.
Use the form below to register your business.
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Welcome to a night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration. Welcome to the Top Dog Business Awards!
The fantastic evening will be held on Friday 16th May 2025 at The Halston, Warwick Road, Carlisle, CA1 1AB.
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Have any questions or need more information? Feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help and look forward to celebrating your success.