And just like that, the second annual Dogue Competition has come to a close. Over the past few weeks, readers from all over the world have turned their mutts into models, photographing them striking a pose for a chance to be on the cover of Dogue. We’ve combed through thousands of submissions, and one thing is clear–whether tail wagging or subtly smizing, Vogue Dogues sure know their angles. Who would emerge the winner was less obvious.
Once again, it was hard to pick a favorite. Silence hung heavy in the air as our judges filed into the conference room where the headshots of our 25 finalists were laid out neatly on the table. After a probing, in-depth look at the contenders, a cutthroat deliberation ensued. One Dogue and one Dogue only came out on top. Vogue’s 2026 Dogue Winner is Sir Spud!
It all came down to our official criteria: photo composition (50%), dog’s personality conveyed through the photo (25%), and good “dogueness” (25%). Sir Spud first drew us in with his perfectly composed repose, then locked us down with his knowing—yet intensely inquisitive—eyes.
Dogue is pleased to introduce our cover star Sir Spud and his human Amina.
Vogue: What is Sir Spud’s best quality?
He is the most loyal, affectionate dog, always wanting to be right by our side or on our lap.
Who would voice Sir Spud in a movie?
Ian McKellen.
Describe the voice you use to talk to your Sir Spud?
Sir Spud lives in a bilingual household. In English, Sir Spud gets the softer tone, but in French, we speak to Sir Spud in a more sérieux way.
What is your dog’s weirdest nickname, and how did you come up with it?
Sir Spud was named by Catholic nuns when he was born. When we got him, we were too scared to change it. However, the history lovers in the family gave him the nickname “Sputnik.”
Where is one place you wish you could take your Sir Spud?
We wish we could take Sir Spud on a trip through the stars in outer space, where he could live up to his nickname.
If you could tell Sir Spud one thing, what would it be?
Sir Spud, you may be a true class act with your fancy posture and air of je ne sais quoi, but it’s your loving nature for your people that makes the biggest impact.
What is the most human thing your Sir Spud does?
Regardless of where he is, Sir Spud always sits with his front legs crossed like in his photograph. He strikes this pose even when he’s asleep.
What is the most dog thing Sir Spud does?
Despite being the least dog-like canine out there, Sir Spud loves to chase cats, rabbits, and squirrels.
Does Sir Spud have any hidden talents?
Sir Spud is a master pickpocket. He uses his snout to sniff out treats from work bags and school backpacks. In addition, he uses his charm to sucker any victim into giving him a treat. Also, Sir Spud is known for his ability to jump twice his height, much to the dismay of any food on the counter.
Sir Spud, what is your astrological sign?
I am a Cancer through and through.
What is your favorite meal?
I love to dine on one serving of dry food mixed with wet food, topped with small cuts of meat. Also, I simply cannot resist the occasional cashew.
What is your least favorite food?
Dog food. Paws down. Oh, how I wish my humans would stop feeding me this!
Worst habit?
My humans claim that I may have a tendency to sneak food whenever I can. I just call it being resourceful. If it wasn’t enough already, they also complain about my jumping—ha! As if they could jump half as high.
