18 Remarkable Photos From The 2026 Dog Photography Awards That Will Make You Look Twice

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Dogs can turn almost any moment into a great photo. Whether they’re running outside, sitting beside their favorite person, or giving the camera a curious look, there’s always something to smile about.

The 2026 Dog Photography Awards celebrates photographers from around the world and the dogs they capture on camera. The winning photos include beautiful pet portraits, action shots, and sweet moments between dogs and their owners. Each one shows a little of what makes these pets so special.

We’ve gathered 18 winning photos for you to enjoy. Whether you love pet photography or simply enjoy seeing happy dogs, take a look below and tell us which photo is your favorite!

1. 3rd Place, Studio: This Is Growing Up By Belinda Richards, Australia

2. 1st Place, Action: Winter Launch By Nika Kuplenk Golobič, Slovenia

3. 3rd Place, Dogs & People: The Weight Of Connection By Santos Román, Spain

Every dog has something that makes them special. In this portrait, I wanted to show the quiet strength of a dog who has lost an eye but still has plenty of spirit. I kept the background simple to draw attention to his face and gentle gaze. To me, this photo celebrates his dignity, personality, and love for life.

4. 1st Place, Documentary: Waiting By Tianhang Zhang, China

These rescue dogs are waiting at a shelter for a home of their own. The photo captures their hopeful faces as they look out from behind the bars, waiting for someone to welcome them into the family.

5. International Dog Photographer Of The Year; 1st Place, Studio: Loved And Hated By Katie Brockman

This photo explores the different ways people see pit bulls and bully breeds. Some view them with fear, while others see beloved pets and work to give them safe, loving homes.

6. 1st Place, Dogs & People: Close By Sarah Ebner, Switzerland

7. 2nd Place, Action: Mission Balance By Gavriella Leon, United States

While walking back from a photo session with horses on Cannon Beach in Oregon, I spotted a ball in the air and an animal running beneath it. At first, I thought it was a seal!

As I got closer, I met Lulu, a dog with some impressive ball skills. She played like a soccer star, and by chance, I took this photo during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

8. 2nd Place, Documentary: On Top Of The World By Katie Gyltnes, Norway

Dog sledding in northern Norway.

70-200mm, f4.5, 1/1250Caught for a split second between the ground and the sky, this dog shows strength and focus in midair.

9. 3rd Place, Action: Weightless By Linda Glomb, Germany

Caught for a split second between the ground and the sky, this dog shows strength and focus in midair.

10. 2nd Place, Dogs & People: Nika & Sherry By Eco Lorka, Spain

Life with a dog is full of small moments of joy, love, and friendship. This photo captures the close bond between a person and their dog, showing how much simply being together can mean.