Argyll and Bute MSP's 'failed sheepdog' Jim crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year

MSP Jenni Minto’s “failed sheepdog” has been crowned Holyrood’s Dog of the Year in the annual competition at the Scottish Parliament.

Border Collie Jim won first place at the annual competition, which was held at the Scottish Parliament Gardens on Monday.

13 MSPs entered the competition, which is being held for the seventh time. Some brought their own pets, and others were given a rescue dog.

The annual contest is organised by the Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club to raise awareness of the issues affecting dogs today.

Border Collie, Jim, took first place, followed by Kura San, a flat-coated Retriever, in second place and Buster, a Dogs Trust rescue dog, in third. STV News

Leading the opposition in second place was Kura San, a flat-coated retriever, owned by Tess White, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party MSP for North East Scotland, while third place was awarded to Buster, a Dogs Trust rescue dog, accompanied by Jamie Halcro Johnston, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party MSP for Highlands and Islands.

The judging panel, Helen Kerfoot, chief Canine Health, events and activities officer at The Kennel Club, Sue Murphy, Dogs Trust trustee, and Marie McNair MSP, 2024 winner of the Holyrood Dog of the Year with Biewer Terrier, Heidi, spent the morning with dogs from different political persuasions and ambitions.

Jim was recognised by judges for his “loveable character and strong bond” with owner Jenni Minto, SNP MSP for Argyll and Bute.

Minto said Jim was meant to be a working sheepdog and may have been abandoned “or worse”.

The MSP said he was really pleased with the win and added that he would be wearing his ribbon with pride on the beaches of Isla.

MSP Jenni Minto’s Border Collie, Jim, took first place at the annual competition. STV News

“Jim means so much to me, I think he’s got such an interesting back story given that he was meant to be a working dog, but when he ended up in a field of sheep, he sat in the corner with his back to them,” she said.

“For him to have that kind of start, and he’s just come into our family and he’s the most loving dog, I’m just really pleased for him because I think he’s got such a nice personality.”

She added: “As an MSP knowing I’ve got Jim to get back to at weekends is just so important to me, for my wellbeing and I love him to bits.”

Craig Hoy MSP and his dog Roma took home the top prize for the ‘pawblic’ vote.

“Roma has been an absolute star today and we are delighted to win the pawblic vote. I know Roma through the local pub where she is very popular,” he said.

“Dogs provide such companionship and ease feelings of loneliness and pubs are great places for bringing people together.”

Helen Kerfoot, chief Canine Health, Events and Activities officer at The Kennel Club said: “Congratulations to Jim and Jenni for being crowned the seventh winners of Holyrood Dog of the Year.

“It was a difficult choice as there was such strong competition this year, so we’d like to thank all those who took part,” she said.

“Dogs are known as man’s best friend for a reason and Holyrood Dog of the Year is a fantastic way to celebrate these special relationships, as well as raising awareness of the issues currently affecting the nation’s dogs.”

Claire Wilson-Leary, public affairs manager at Dogs Trust added: “Thanks to all the MSPs and their canine companions for taking part in Holyrood Dog of the Year and many congratulations to Jim and Jenni for taking home this year’s title.

“As all dog owners know, there is nothing quite like the love, loyalty and devotion you experience when you welcome a dog into your family, and today’s event is all about celebrating the unique and special bond we have with our amazing canine friends.”