Jack Russell is top dog at Westminster

A Jack Russell belonging to Lord Lucas wins this year’s Westminster Dog of the Year competition

The winner of this year’s Westminster Dog of the Year competition is Puffin, a JackRussell owned by Lord Lucas.

The competition, organised by the National Canine Defence League and the Kennel Club, is open to Members of Parliament from both the Lords and the Commons.

“It’s proved very popular,” said Clarissa Baldwin, chief executive of the NCDL and one of three judges of the competition. “We’ve even had entry requests from some of the cleaners.”

But she explained it was not about judging dogs on their appearance.

“It’s about the special relationship between a dog and its owner and the promotion of responsible dog ownership.

“Puffin had clearly provided a lot of comfort when required throughout the year, helping the family at times of stress – at work and at home.

“It was a lighthearted and enjoyable dayand very clear that all the entrants love their dogs and take care of them.”

Second place went to Camden, a Border Collie, owned by Labour MP for Gravesham, Chris Pond, and third was Spike, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, owned by Conservative MP for Romford, Andrew Rosindell.

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