Goodwoof 2026
Sending Murphy where no dog has gone before!
Murphy is my parents' dog. He's a rescue from the Blue Cross, originally called Frodo. He appeared on the Blue Cross website, disappeared, then reappeared, and just as my parents were about to give up trying to contact the charity, the phone rang. It was the Blue Cross asking if they’d like to meet him. My parents went to see him right away. Murphy was described as timid, but he greeted them with pure excitement. A week later, just before Christmas , he came home.
Our Architect Emma with Murphy
Within three days he’d eaten an entire chocolate yule log (and survived an emergency vet trip), which nobody thought he'd be able to reach. Shortly after, he bonded with the whole family, as if we've known each other forever.
We later learned he had been returned to the rescue once before for “barking too much.” He can be a bit noisy, and he certainly has a loud bark for his size! But I can't imagine why anyone would return him, he’s affectionate, loyal, and full of character.
This year Goodwoof is supporting Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, a reminder of how many brilliant rescue dogs deserve a second chance. A charity close to my heart.
Our space themed kennel is designed for Murphy; our rescue dog who very nearly got away. 🐾
T-96 days
February 2026
The countdown begins! HPW announces that we have been shortlisted for the Barkitecture competition at Goodwoof 2026. Our design is a 'golden retrieval system' for the ultimate game of fetch through the galaxy. Made of 'space junk' Murphy's space ship can be built by anyone at home!
T-81 days
February 2026
The first images of Spacedog Murphy and HPW's Chief Encouragement Officer, Hugo, in their space suits are leaked online as they get ready for their epic mission.
T-73 days
March 2026
The build busily begins! Hugo and Murphy repurpose everyday items they found around the house to fashion the spaceship to take them to the stars!
T-57 days
March 2026
Meet spacedog Murphy. He's a rescue dog from the Blue Cross, adopted by Emma's (one of our architects) parents. He's affectionate, loyal, and full of character, with a bark much louder than his size!
T-52 days
March 2026
The build continues, with help from our director, Alex. Murphy and Hugo supervise expertly.
T-46 days
April 2026
Hugo and Murphy continue their training, getting Murphy ready for his great adventure! Murphy is on a special low-treats diet, with Hugo happy to take the treats off Murphy for "safe keeping."
T-38 days
April 2026
The spaceship is ready, complete with its helium balloons to gently take Murphy up to the edge of space - and beyond! HPW organised a photoshoot to celebrate the occasion.
T-33 days
April 2026
Meet Hugo, HPW's Chief Encouragement Officer (CEO). He's a Springador who enjoys long walks, belly rubs, and the occasional venison sausage. Still young and learning the ropes, he believes that as long as his wagging tail brightens someone’s day, he’s doing his job right.
T-26 days
April 2026
This is getting serious! As the days fly by (pun intended), the pups receive their final mission briefing. Fetch the ball. Return home.
T-19 days
April 2026
More promotional shots of Murphy and Hugo, this time with tennis balls galore!
T-12 days
May 2026
Goodwoof is a dog event like no other. With over 50 unique activities to do with or without your best friend, Goodwoof offers the chance to celebrate everything we love about our canine companions. Find out more at goodwood.com/goodwoof
Lift off!
May 2026
5... 4... 3... 2... 1... We have lift off! Murphy becomes the first spacedog to travel throughout the galaxy in the search for his tennis ball. His journey takes him to distant planets, unbelievable stellar phenomena, and he might even meet some aliens in this galactic game of fetch. Watch the mission video here!
