National

Pet Lovers' Choice Awards: See the winning pets in all 50 states

Miffy here calls Los Angeles home, and his quirky quality is the fact that he loves cat tunnels! Seems appropriate, given his shape. He comes in at No. 3 for the state of California.
Miffy here calls Los Angeles home, and his quirky quality is the fact that he loves cat tunnels! Seems appropriate, given his shape. He comes in at No. 3 for the state of California. USA TODAY Network, Reuters

As the finalists from each state move on to the 'Best Pet in Nation' round of the Pet Lovers' Choice Awards, the team at USA TODAY Pets has gathered all the finalists, runner-ups and third place pets from each region. Watch the awards show below to see the top 50 winners.

Didn't see your favorite in the top 50? Every dog (and cat) will have its day in the finale of this competition, since every pet that cracked the top three advanced to the Best in Nation contest.

Check out the top vote-getters from around the country below before the duke it out for the ultimate prize:

SOUTHEAST

NORTHEAST

SOUTHWEST

MIDWEST

WEST

The Pet Lovers' Choice Awards says the winner of the 'Best Pet in the Nation' contest will receive the following:

  • $10,000 cash prize
  • Tickets for two people and their pet to the PLCA show
  • A spot in the nationally-broadcast red carpet show
  • Announcement of winning prize on stage
  • Travel and accommodation in Los Angeles for the award show
  • A photo session for the winning pet and owner
  • The official PLCA trophy
  • A feature in USA TODAY Pets

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pet Lovers' Choice Awards: See the winning pets in all 50 states

Reporting by Pat Mueller, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published June 25, 2026 at 8:01 PM.

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