Laois puppy crowned South Leinster winner at Petmania Puppy of the Year 2026

A Toy Poodle named Teddy Boo has been crowned South Leinster winner at Petmania Puppy of the Year 2026.

Owned by Megan Fusco from Errill, Teddy Boo was one of 26 county finalists at the Grand Final at Pet Expo in Dublin on Saturday, 17 October. This year’s competition attracted 1,414 entries nationwide, with Teddy Boo taking the South Leinster title ahead of seven fellow county finalists.

There’s a particularly touching story behind Teddy Boo. Megan had arranged to collect him the day after her mother passed away in July. Despite initially questioning the timing, she says he arrived at exactly the right moment, bringing comfort to her, her children and her sisters. She describes him as “an angel … just without wings”.

The overall title went to Ivy, a Dalmatian from Mayo, while Summer from Longford and Sullivan from Limerick won the other provincial titles.