Some heroes wore uniforms. Others wore collars. This Remembrance Day, we remember the extraordinary dogs who served alongside us.

Every year on 11 November, we pause to remember the brave men and women who served, sacrificed and gave so much during times of conflict.

But alongside the soldiers, nurses and countless others who answered the call of duty, there were some remarkable four-legged companions whose stories deserve to be remembered, too.

They carried life-saving messages through dangerous battlefields. They searched for survivors beneath bombed buildings. They detected hidden explosives, protected their handlers and offered comfort in some of history's darkest moments.

These were the dogs who served in war. They didn't understand the conflicts unfolding around them, yet their incredible abilities and close bonds with people helped save countless lives.

This Remembrance Day, we're sharing their stories and honouring the animals whose contributions should never be forgotten.

The Unsung Heroes: How Dogs Helped During the First World War

When we think of the First World War (1914–1918), we often picture soldiers in muddy trenches, distant battlefields and the extraordinary hardships faced by those on the front lines.

What many people don't realise is that dogs played important roles throughout the conflict.

With their exceptional sense of smell, agility and ability to learn specialised tasks, dogs became valuable members of military units.

Messenger Dogs: Delivering Hope Through Danger

Before modern communication systems, sending an urgent message across a battlefield could be a matter of life or death.

Telephone lines were often damaged by shellfire, and human messengers faced enormous risks.

Trained messenger dogs helped bridge this gap. Carrying written messages in small containers attached to their collars, these remarkable animals travelled between military positions, sometimes under enemy fire.

A successful delivery could mean reinforcements arrived, an important warning reached its destination or lives were saved.

It's difficult to imagine the courage and resilience required of these dogs as they navigated unfamiliar, dangerous surroundings.

Mercy Dogs: Helping the Wounded

Some of the most moving stories from the First World War involve dogs trained to locate wounded soldiers.

Often known as mercy dogs, ambulance dogs or Red Cross dogs, they searched battlefields for injured men who might otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Specially trained dogs could locate a casualty and alert their handlers, helping medical teams find people in need of assistance.

Their work demonstrated that a dog's remarkable senses could offer something truly invaluable: a better chance of being found and rescued.

Comfort When It Was Needed Most

Not every dog had an official military role.

Some became companions and mascots, offering moments of comfort and familiarity to soldiers living through frightening and exhausting circumstances.

A friendly face, a wagging tail or a moment of quiet companionship could provide a welcome connection to ordinary life.

Even in the harshest conditions, the bond between humans and dogs remained something special.

Three Remarkable War Dogs Whose Stories Deserve to Be Remembered

Throughout history, many dogs have demonstrated extraordinary bravery during conflicts.

While countless contributions went unrecorded, some of their stories have been preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate the lives they touched.

Here are three remarkable dogs whose courage and service continue to inspire us.

1. Rip: The Stray Dog Who Became a Blitz Rescue Hero

Conflict: Second World War | Role: Search and rescue | Award: PDSA Dickin Medal, 1945

Rip, the search-and-rescue dog who helped locate people trapped beneath bomb-damaged buildings in London.

In 1940, as bombs fell across London during the Blitz, a stray dog was found wandering through the devastated streets of Poplar.

An air raid warden named E. King took pity on the hungry dog and gave him food.

That simple act of kindness marked the beginning of an extraordinary story.

The dog, named Rip, soon became a familiar companion to the local Civil Defence team. Although he had no formal search-and-rescue training, Rip showed an astonishing ability to locate people trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

Working alongside rescue teams, he helped identify survivors among the rubble.

Rip is believed to have helped save more than 100 lives during a twelve-month period.

In 1945, he received the PDSA Dickin Medal in recognition of his remarkable work.

Why we remember Rip: His story reminds us that extraordinary contributions can come from the most unexpected places. A homeless dog, shown a little kindness, went on to make a remarkable difference.

Read more about Rip's incredible story at PDSA.

2. Judy: The Dog Who Became a Prisoner of War

Conflict: Second World War | Role: Naval mascot and companion | Award: PDSA Dickin Medal, 1946

Judy, the English Pointer who survived Japanese prisoner-of-war camps during the Second World War.

Judy, an English Pointer, served as a mascot aboard HMS Grasshopper during the Second World War.

When the ship was attacked and sunk in 1942, Judy survived alongside members of the crew.

After reaching an island, the survivors desperately needed drinking water. Remarkably, Judy began digging in the sand and uncovered a freshwater source.

But her story didn't end there.

Judy later endured imprisonment in Japanese prisoner-of-war camps, where she formed an especially close bond with British serviceman Frank Williams.

Frank shared his limited food rations with her, while Judy provided companionship and helped lift the spirits of fellow prisoners.

She survived another ship sinking, and was eventually recognised as an official prisoner of war.

In May 1946, Judy was awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal for her courage, endurance and devotion.

Why we remember Judy: Her story shows how powerful companionship can be, particularly when people face extraordinary hardship. Even in captivity, the bond between Judy and those around her offered comfort and hope.

Discover Judy's remarkable wartime journey at PDSA.

3. Kuno: The Brave Military Dog Who Never Gave Up

Conflict: Afghanistan | Role: Military Protection and Detection Dog | Award: PDSA Dickin Medal, 2020

Kuno, the heroic British military working dog awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal in 2020 for bravery in Afghanistan.

Some heroes show extraordinary courage in the face of danger. Others remind us that true bravery also means finding the strength to carry on.

Kuno, a Belgian Malinois serving with the British Armed Forces, did both.

In 2019, Kuno was deployed to Afghanistan alongside his handler, supporting British troops during a dangerous military operation.

When the soldiers came under heavy enemy fire, they found themselves unable to advance without risking serious casualties.

That's when Kuno stepped in.

Despite the danger, this remarkable dog charged towards an armed insurgent, helping the soldiers overcome the threat and complete their mission.

But his bravery came at a heartbreaking cost.

Kuno suffered severe gunshot wounds to both hind legs. His injuries were so serious that, despite extensive veterinary treatment, part of one of his rear paws had to be amputated.

Yet Kuno's story didn't end there.

Following months of specialist care and rehabilitation, he became the first British military working dog to receive a custom-made prosthetic limb, helping him regain his mobility and enjoy a well-deserved retirement.

In November 2020, Kuno was awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal, recognising his extraordinary bravery and devotion to duty.

Why we remember Kuno: His story is a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience and trust shared between dogs and their human companions. Despite everything he endured, Kuno's determination and remarkable recovery continue to inspire us.

Discover Kuno's incredible story at PDSA.

The PDSA Dickin Medal: Honouring Animal Bravery

You might have noticed something these three remarkable dogs have in common: they were all awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal.

Established in 1943 by Maria Dickin, the founder of veterinary charity PDSA, the medal recognises extraordinary bravery and devotion to duty by animals serving during military conflict.

Often described as the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross, the medal bears two particularly meaningful words:

"We Also Serve."

These words offer a powerful reminder that animals have played important roles alongside people during some of history's most difficult moments.

Dogs aren't the only recipients. Horses, pigeons and even a cat have received the prestigious award.

While many animal heroes will never have their names recorded in history, the Dickin Medal helps preserve the stories of those whose contributions are known.

Why Do We Remember Animals on Remembrance Day?

Remembrance Day is an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifices of people affected by war, past and present.

It is also a time to acknowledge the animals who were drawn into conflicts they could neither understand nor choose.

From horses carrying supplies to pigeons delivering messages and dogs searching for survivors, their contributions formed an important part of wartime history.

You may have seen people wearing a purple poppy, a symbol used to commemorate animals affected by war.

The traditional red poppy remains the Royal British Legion's symbol of Remembrance, honouring the Armed Forces community and the sacrifices made in service.

Both can encourage conversations about remembrance, compassion and the importance of never forgetting the consequences of conflict.

How Can Dog Owners Honour Our Four-Legged Heroes?

You don't need to attend a large ceremony to take a meaningful moment to remember.

Small, thoughtful gestures can help keep the stories of these extraordinary animals alive.

Take part in the two-minute silence.

At 11am on 11 November, join others across the UK in observing two minutes of silence. It's an opportunity to remember those who served, reflect on their sacrifices and acknowledge the animals who worked alongside them.

Share their stories.

Tell a friend or family member about Rip, Judy or Treo. Sharing their stories helps ensure their contributions remain part of our collective memory.

Support an animal welfare or remembrance charity.

Organisations such as PDSA and the Royal British Legion offer meaningful ways to learn more and support causes connected with animal welfare and remembrance.

Celebrate the special bond you share with your own dog.

Although our pets' everyday lives are very different from those of wartime working dogs, their companionship is something we can appreciate every day.

Spend some extra time together. Enjoy a peaceful walk, practise a favourite trick or simply settle down for a cuddle.

After all, dogs give us so much without expecting anything in return.

A Little Appreciation for the Heroes in Our Lives Today

The stories of Rip, Judy and Treo remind us of something dog lovers already understand: the bond between humans and dogs can be extraordinary.

Our own four-legged companions may never search for survivors or serve on the front lines, but they enrich our lives in countless ways.

They're there to greet us after a long day, accompany us on new adventures and bring comfort when we need it most.

At Nutriment Natural Treats, we believe those everyday moments of connection are worth celebrating.

Whether it's a little reward during training, a favourite natural chew after a walk or simply spending quality time together, caring for our dogs is one of the ways we can show our appreciation.

Discover our natural training treats and long-lasting chews, thoughtfully selected for everyday rewarding and enjoyment. Always choose treats suited to your dog's size, age and chewing habits, and supervise chewing.

Explore Nutriment Natural Treats

We Will Remember Them

This Remembrance Day, we honour the men and women who served, the lives lost and the families forever affected by conflict.

And alongside them, we remember the dogs who carried messages, searched for survivors, protected their companions and offered comfort in times of uncertainty.

Their stories are a reminder of courage, resilience and the remarkable connection between humans and animals.

To the dogs who served, and to all those who sacrificed so much: we remember you.

Lest we forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did dogs serve in the First World War?

Yes. During the First World War, dogs performed various duties, including carrying military messages, locating wounded soldiers, standing guard and providing companionship. Their keen senses and specialised training made them valuable in difficult battlefield conditions.

What did dogs do during the Second World War?

Dogs served in several roles during the Second World War, including search and rescue, guarding, detecting threats and accompanying military personnel. Dogs such as Rip and Judy became well known for their extraordinary contributions.

What is the PDSA Dickin Medal?

The PDSA Dickin Medal is an award established in 1943 to recognise animals displaying exceptional bravery or devotion to duty during military conflict. It has been awarded to dogs, horses, pigeons and a cat.

What does the purple poppy represent?

The purple poppy is used to remember animals affected by war, including dogs, horses and pigeons. It is distinct from the Royal British Legion's traditional red poppy, which commemorates the service and sacrifices of the Armed Forces community.