The votes are in, and we’re thrilled to announce the winners of our 2026 Cutest Pet Contest! From floppy-eared dogs to sassy cats and even a manicured skunk, your furry friends stole our hearts and made this year’s competition unforgettable.
To celebrate our winners and raise money for a meaningful organization, we asked each of our winners’ pet parents to answer some questions about their beloved companion. Get ready to meet our winners and learn what makes them truly one of a kind.
1st Place – Mocha
Parent’s Name: Nicolo
Pet’s Home: Lake Nona
Age: 13
Breed: Silky Yorkie Terrier
What are any funny habits or quirks your pet has?
“Every morning at 6:32 am, she wakes us up for her daily pill tucked into a duck-flavored doggie gummy. Every night, before bedtime, she gets her dental and then runs up to the bedroom and sits bedside for her last treat bite before calling it a night!”
What is their favorite non-pet food?
“Pizza Crust”
How did they become part of your family?
“When Cappuccino was our first, he needed a sister to play with; then Mocha came along, rest is history.”
What is their favorite activity to do?
“Walk their humans vs. humans walking her. She says where to go, where to turn, and how far to go!”
If they were a person, what job would they have?
“Being the boss-lady of the house! She’s got us wrapped around her paws, and she knows it!” – Nicolo
2nd Place – Frappuccino
Parents’ Names: Tony and Melina
Pet’s Name: Frappuccino (aka Frappe)
Pet’s Home: Eagle Creek
Age: 12
Breed: Silky Terrier
What are any funny habits or quirks your pet has?
“Loves to get picked up in my arms like a little child while I do chores, and every night as we settle on the couch to watch TV, he must give kisses after a long day.”
What is their favorite non-pet food?
“He’s my little carnivore nibbler; he loves anything Chicken, Turkey, or meat.”
How did they become part of your family?
“Went to a pet store to get nail trims for my 2 other pups. They were having adoption day, and I couldn’t resist; after a playtime ended up signing papers and taking him home.”
What is their favorite activity to do?
“Go out on car rides and love to travel wherever we are going.”
If they were a person, what job would they have?
“A devoted protector. A guardian of anyone and anything they love.” – Melina
3rd Place – Teddy
Parent’s Name: Ilene Lieber
Pet’s Name: Teddy (His full name is Teddy Thomas Lieber.)
Pet’s Home: Delaney Park (Orlando, FL)
Age: A little over a year and a half (20 months)
Breed: Mini Australian Shepherd (Red Tri)
What are any funny habits or quirks your pet has?
“Not only is Teddy very adorable, but he is also very smart and very mischievous. He can open cabinets and drawers, so I have to keep an eye on him. We have started the “treat trade”, so when he pulls something out, I say “treat trade,” and he immediately drops the item in exchange for a treat! Luckily, he doesn’t take advantage of this and pull things out all the time to get treats. He also won’t jump in the car, so I have to pick him up every time, but I don’t mind because I get a snuggle. He seriously has me smiling and laughing all day.”
What is their favorite non-pet food?
“Dunkin pup cup! (A weekly treat when mommy gets her Dunkin iced coffee treat.) He also loves paper! I’m not kidding. The mail carriers are his best friends.”
How did they become part of your family?
“Teddy and I coming together is truly the coolest story! It’s very meant to be. His Angel Sister Zoey brought him to me! Zoey, the first love of my life, passed away two years ago. She was always more of a people dog, and the only dogs she really loved were two Australian Shepherd boys that live in our neighborhood. Fast forward almost a year and a half later, I just happened to be somewhere where I was told a family was looking for a new home for their 9-month-old boy Aussie. I met Teddy the next day; he sat on my lap, and I met the new love of my life. I’m so thankful for Teddy every single day!”
What is their favorite activity to do?
“Teddy likes to dance with Mommy, play with his friends, and tuck Mommy into bed at night. (He really does!).”
If they were a person, what job would they have?
“Sheriff Teddy for sure! (Also, a model – he is beautiful!).” – Ilene Lieber
Thank you to everyone who participated and voted—this contest was a celebration of the love, laughter, and companionship our pets bring us every day. We especially thank our nonprofit sponsor, Florida Wiener Dog Derby, for the support and good work that you do. Until next year, give your furry friends an extra treat and a scratch behind the ears from us!
