Ireland’s Pet Experts Petmania have announced the winning pup of their Puppy of the Year competition - Harley Alves, a Cavapoo from Athlone, has been crowned top dog, beating over 1,600 adorable puppies from across the country. 

The Irish-owned business held the finale of the Puppy of the Year competition on Saturday, October 26th in their Portlaoise store. 

This year’s competition marks the 9th year of the annual canine competition with it becoming more popular each year. 

Harley won the hearts of the judges because his bright and clever personality. A confident pup, she showed a real bond with her humans and has a beautiful story to tell.

Harley and his proud owners, Jane and Lily Alves, received a prize worth €1500, including a 12-month grooming care plan with Petmania, a year’s supply of dog food from Beta, a two-night staycation in a dog-friendly hotel courtesy of Blue Book, as well as a professional photoshoot and a brand ambassador contract. 

In second place was Corgi,Luna Roberts Higgins from Portlaoise, while in third place was Doberman Pinscher, Quirky Dude (Marcus) from Wexford. 

Speaking about this year's Puppy of the Year contest, Petmania’s spokesperson Emily Miller, says: "What an incredible response to this year's competition! With over 1600 adorable entrants and a flood of votes, it's been amazing to see Ireland's puppy parents so engaged.

"Narrowing it down to the final 16 was tough, and each finalist truly exemplified the dedication of their owners. A huge congratulations to Harley - we can't wait to see what adventures await as our new brand ambassador!" 

After succeeding in the grand final of the competition, the winning pup’s owner, Jane Alves from Athlone, stated: “We loved getting to celebrate all the beautiful puppies who entered on this journey. We had so much fun along the way and made so many new friends. These memories we will always cherish.

"Winning Puppy of The Year would mean so much to us. Harley is such a special pup and we want to share her loving nature with everyone and represent the little pups with big personalities.

"It is an honour to represent Petmania and our local store in Athlone and thank you for this amazing opportunity.” 

The annual Puppy of the Year competition was open to puppies aged 12 months and under, and entries for the competition were open during the month of September with every single puppy entered receiving a free puppy pack, sponsored by BETA dog food.