A black lurcher stands on a shingle beach

If you love exploring the coast with your dog, chances are you’ve captured more than a few magical moments along the way. From sandy paws to windswept ears, our dogs have a knack for turning every walk into a photo opportunity.

Well, now’s your chance to put those snaps to good use. The Bird Aware Solent Photography Competition is back, and once again there’s a dedicated category celebrating dogs who enjoy the coast while giving wildlife the space it needs. If your four‑legged friend is a natural at respectful beach walking, this is their time to shine.

A white staffordshire bull terrier stands alongside their owner at the coast. The dog's owner is bird watching,

Featured above is last year’s winning image by Sharon Vardy which shows her granddaughter Ruby and dog Belle taking in the beautiful scenery at Hill Head. It’s a perfect example of the kind of wildlife‑aware coastal moment we’re hoping to see again this year.

We’re looking for photos of well-behaved dogs who give birds plenty of space – whether walking alongside their humans on paths, staying on leads, or simply relaxing away from wildlife.

Two dogs walk along a path bordered with greenery

Show us dogs making the most of their coastal adventures while helping protect the birds that need these spaces to feed and rest. Whether it’s a dog watching birds from a distance, or getting the most from spending quality time with their humans, let’s celebrate dog-walking in nature in a responsible way.

Prizes up for grabs

  • £75 in vouchers of your choice for the best Wildlife Aware Coastal Dogs photo
  • £100 in vouchers plus a guided birdwatching walk for you, your family, and friends for the overall competition winner (across all categories, including coastal birds and landscapes)
  • £50 in vouchers for the best mobile phone submission

Ready to enter?

To enter, simply send up to two photos of your wildlife aware dog to info@birdaware.org.

You’ll find full details of all categories, plus terms and conditions on the photo competition pages of the Bird Aware Solent website.

Find out more about the Bird Aware Solent Photography Competition.