One of these pups will be crowned Kentucky’s cutest dog! Vote for your favorite now
This is it: The final round of our Herald-Leader poll to find Kentucky’s cutest dog has begun.
Who will be crowned the best in the Bluegrass? The field has narrowed to a sun-loving great Pyrenees mix in his golden years and a 1-year-old Australian shepherd pup obsessed with his toy duck.
Previously, we asked our readers to submit photos and fun facts about their four-legged friends. Voting in our second and final round is now open using the polling feature below. Only one dog will be crowned champion.
The winner will feature in a story on Kentucky.com and go on to compete for national recognition, representing the state in a contest of McClatchy newsrooms spanning the country. Kentucky’s winner will be announced Monday, Nov. 3.
Unlike previous Herald-Leader polls, you don’t need to be a subscriber to vote, and readers may vote as many times as they like by refreshing the page. So encourage your friends and family to help launch your pet to the top.
The poll below will remain open until 11:59 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30.
Kentucky’s cutest dog competitors
Bennie
Bennie, a 1-year-old miniature Australian Shepherd, is inseparable from his toy duck, which accompanies him everywhere he goes. Bennie’s also a cuddler and loves hanging out with his big brother, Arlo, also an Australian Shepherd. Bennie and his family live in Louisville.
Red
Before his adoption, 9-year-old Red lived at the Madison County Humane Society. These days, the Great Pyrenees mix spends his days lounging in the sun. Red catches the rays in Lexington.
This story was originally published October 22, 2025 at 12:30 PM.