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The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has officially announced the winners of its annual Name the Puppy contest for 2025. This beloved event, which invites children across Canada to suggest names for future police dogs, has become a cherished tradition, fostering creativity and engagement among the youth.
This year, the contest attracted an impressive 10,000 entries from children aged four to 14, showcasing the enthusiasm and imagination of young Canadians.
Contest details and participation
The contest ran from February 19 to March 19, allowing ample time for participants to submit their name suggestions online.
Each name had to start with the letter ‘A,’ adding a fun twist to the challenge. The RCMP selected one winner from each of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories, ensuring a diverse representation of names from across the country. The winners not only gain the honor of naming a puppy but also receive a special package that includes a photo of their named puppy, a plush dog named Justice, and an RCMP water bottle.
Winning names and their significance
This year’s winning names reflect a mix of creativity and cultural significance, with each name chosen to embody the spirit of the RCMP’s mission. The winners will be recognized for their contributions, and their names will be associated with the puppies that will undergo rigorous training at the RCMP’s Police Dog Services Training Centre (PDSTC) in Innisfail, Alberta.
These dogs play a crucial role in law enforcement, assisting in tasks such as tracking criminals, detecting drugs and explosives, and participating in search and rescue operations.
Looking ahead to next year
As the excitement from this year’s contest settles, the RCMP is already gearing up for the next edition, which is expected to open in early 2026.
Aspiring young namers should prepare, as next year’s entries will need to start with the letter ‘B.’ This ongoing initiative not only highlights the importance of community involvement in law enforcement but also encourages children to engage with their local police services in a fun and meaningful way.
The RCMP continues to emphasize that names not selected this year will still be considered for other puppies born throughout the year, ensuring that every suggestion has a chance to shine. This contest is more than just a naming event; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the vital role that police dogs play in keeping Canadians safe.
