Longford dog named the Ulster and North Leinster provincial winner in contest

Ireland’s pet experts, Petmania, proudly announced the winner of the 2025 Petmania Puppy of the Year competition in a tail-wagging finale at Dublin’s Pet Expo on Saturday, October 18. 

Longford’s Brody Fagan has been named the Ulster and North Leinster Provincial Winner in Petmania’s Puppy of the Year 2025 competition. Joining Brody in the Ulster and North Leinster category were Betsy Mooney from Cavan, Danny O’Brien from Louth, Lily Star from Meath, Charlie Cole from Monaghan, and Ziggy Davidson from Westmeath.

Read more: North Longford dog owner convicted for pitbull not being muzzled and on a lead

Marking the tenth year of the beloved contest, this nationwide campaign celebrates Ireland’s most cherished puppies, with entries welcomed from all 26 counties. A record-breaking 1,700 puppies competed for the prestigious title this year. From this incredible number of entrants, the judges first shortlisted three finalists from each county. Two rounds of public voting then determined the 26 county finalists, before the judges selected the four provincial winners and, ultimately, the All-Ireland winner at the live Pet Expo in Dublin.  

Nicole Fagan, proud owner of Brody, commented on the occasion:

“From the moment Brody came into my life, his gentle nature, loving heart, and endless cuddles have brought so much warmth and happiness to our Family. Seeing that sweetness and kindness recognized in this way fills me with so much pride and happiness. Just being a finalist already feels like such an honour – but to win is truly incredible. It is a celebration of everything that makes Brody so special: his gentle and loving personality, his boundless love, and the joy he brings to our family and everyone who meets him.”

Read more: 'We're warts and all' - Meet the Longford farmer turning online fame into big business

The annual Petmania Puppy of the Year competition was open to puppies aged 12 months and under. All entrants received a free Puppy Pack sponsored by BETA dog food and an exclusive discount code for puppy essentials. Judges first shortlisted three puppies from each county, before two rounds of public voting determined the 26 county finalists. From this selection, the judges then chose the provincial winners and, ultimately, the All-Ireland Petmania Puppy of the Year.