Who doesn’t love to see dogs in Christmas jumpers? If so, this is the post for you (we aim to please). These days owning a Christmas jumper for both you and your dog or let’s face it, just the dog, is de rigeur and what better place to strut your dog Christmas jumper style than the annual ‘Dog Christmas Jumper Competiton’ at the Windmill Clapham…
Back for the fifth year, and our third as guest photographer and judge, this friendly competition for Christmas canines is hosted by famous resident pub dog Max.
In previous competition years, Max has been seen sporting a Christmas jumper on his majestic frame but this year, apparently he ‘refused’ to wear one, instead choosing to watch the (at times chaotic) four-legged festive fun unfold with his characteristic ‘nothing phases me’ attitude.
All proceeds from the Windmill Clapham Dog Christmas Jumper Competition raise funds for dogs in need at Battersea, which is something Max and his owner Ben try to do whenever they can. Be it from donations for doggy treats at the bar or pub present wrapping events (where you donate to get your Xmas presents wrapped), this doggy-human duo is always on the lookout for ways to help.
Tasty prizes for the competition are donated by local natural pet store, Woofs to Kittys. And although the winners may take home the top pup prizes, every dog who enters takes home some treats. The 2019 cohort of Dogs in Christmas Jumpers didn’t disappoint; from Santas to carol-singers and plenty in between, every dog was definitely a winner with their own unique style.
Official places were first to third with a special prize for ‘Best Twinning Human & Hound’, and then we have our own ‘Alternative Awards List’ too (more on that in a moment).
Without further ado, we present to you the Dogs in Christmas Jumpers cohort of 2019….
Dogs in Christmas Jumpers at The Windmill Clapham – The Winners
1st Place – Zeus
Singing his way into first place was five-month-old British Bulldog puppy Zeus who came dressed as a (rather fancy) carol singer.
Aside from being the cutest carol singer around, Zeus’s costume was created at home by his rather talented human so that definitely deserved extra pup points.
2nd Place – Baxter
Bashfully making his way into second place was Battersea Yorkie-poo rescue Baxter whose flashing Christmas jumper and matching leg warmers were a winning combination.
Poor little Baxter was found abandoned on the streets in a bit of a state before being taken in by Battersea and then adopted by his owner Sam who Baxter clearly adores. You’ve definitely landed on your paws there Baxter, and as for those leg warmers, they make your paws even cuter!
3rd Place – Nova
In third place, is 12-year-old Bolonka Nova. We had never heard of the Bolonka breed before, but owner Anna told us it’s a rare Russian breed sharing ancestry with the Bichons and Toy Poodles of the world.
Nova, not only are you the first Bolonka we’ve met, but you’re adorable too!
Best Human & Hound Twinning
Embracing the Christmas Jumper competition as a two and four-legged duo in Christmas attire, were Coton de Tulear Cyrus and his owner Paras. Their dog and owner style earned them the special ‘Best Human & Hound Twinning’ prize, well-done guys!
Dogs in Christmas Jumpers at The Windmill Clapham – The Alternative Awards
These dogs may not have officially won an award but they all brought something special to the competition. And as one of the hardest parts of judging is not being able to have every dog win, Belinha (who came along to help Max with the judging), decided that these dogs deserved their own ‘Alternative Award’ of the day…
Most Dedicated Dog – Dexter
Dexter the Beagle has to be the Dog Christmas Jumper’s competition most dedicated entrant! We’ve met him every year so far, and Dexter always makes an effort to add some extra flair to his Christmas jumper. Hope to see you next year too, Dexter!
Most Original Christmas Jumper – Argo
There was no doubt that Italian rescue dog Argo had the most original costume of the day and his colourful Christmas jumper come collar, made him stand out from the canine crowd.
Apparently, you can put Christmas treats in each of the pockets, although we’re not sure how long they would last if Argo happened to be wearing it at the same time.
Best Dog Twinning – Damper and Luna
This doggy duo are best of friends, so much so that they dress alike!
Damper, the Siberian Husky, was probably the most enthusiastic dog of the day, even trying to steal the decorations off the tree with gusto.
His friend sweet Luna the Pomsky was a little shy but soon took the lead from Damper when it came to posing for photos and stealing the show (as long as it was with her mum Patsy).
Best Trainee Santa – Teddy
The youngest entrant this year was little Teddy, the Working Cocker Spaniel puppy and trainee Santa in the making.
We suspect Teddy will be winning over many a human with that adorable head tilt of his. Even if he may get distracted and forget to fulfil his Santa Paws duties along the way, he’ll get away with it because he’s so damn cute!
And that’s a wrap!
If you missed the competition this year, don’t despair…there will be a 2020 Dog Christmas Jumper Competition (date TBA on the London Dog Events Calendar).
And of course, Max will see you there!
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