The RCMP is inviting kids across Canada to take part in its annual "Name the Puppy" contest, a unique opportunity to help name the next generation of police service dogs. Hosted by the Police Dog Service Training Centre (PDSTC) in Innisfail, Alberta, the contest encourages children aged 4 to 14 to submit name ideas for the newest litter of German Shepherd puppies.
For 2025, all submitted names must begin with the letter "A." The contest is open from February 19 to March 19, 2025, and provides a fun way for young Canadians to connect with the RCMP while learning about the important role of police dogs.
How to Enter
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Contest period: February 19 – March 19, 2025
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Rules:
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Entries must be submitted through the online form.
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Each participant can submit one name (one entry per person).
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The name must start with the letter "A."
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Names should be one or two syllables and no more than nine letters.
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All entries must be received by March 19, 2025.
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Who Can Participate?
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Open to Canadian children aged 4 to 14.
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Participants must have parental or guardian permission before submitting personal details.
Prizes and Winner Announcement
The 13 winning names will be revealed on April 17, 2025, via the RCMP website and social media channels. One winner from each province and territory will receive:
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A laminated 8×10-inch photo of the puppy they named.
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A plush dog named Justice.
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An RCMP water bottle.
“This contest is always a highlight for us. We love seeing the creativity of kids across Canada, and we look forward to receiving this year’s ‘A’ names,” said Inspector Shawn Boutin, Program Manager at PDSTC.
About the RCMP’s Police Dog Training Program
The PDSTC is Canada’s national police dog training facility, known for breeding and training top-quality German Shepherds with advanced tracking and searching skills. Each year, a new litter of puppies is born at the centre, and young Canadians play an important role in helping name them.
Names will be selected by PDSTC staff. If multiple entries suggest the same winning name, a random draw will determine the winner. Names not selected for the contest may still be used for other puppies born throughout the year.
For full contest details and to submit a name, visit the RCMP Name the Puppy Contest online.