The Transportation Security Administration’s 2026 Cutest Canine Contest has narrowed to four finalists, with public voting underway to determine the nation’s top working dog.

The semifinal round features two matchups. Xaro, a 9-year-old German Shepherd from St. Louis Lambert International Airport who is preparing to retire, faces Bolt, a 3-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer working at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. In the other matchup, 4-year-old yellow Labrador Epic from Pittsburgh International Airport takes on Ember, a 4-year-old Labrador from Orlando International Airport.

Voting is taking place through TSA’s official social media accounts, with the semifinal winners advancing to the championship. The 2026 winner will be announced August 26, National Dog Day, and will appear on the cover of TSA’s upcoming canine calendar.

The annual competition also highlights the important work of explosives detection dogs in helping keep U.S. transportation systems safe.

tsa.gov