Britain's Got Talent boss Simon Cowell said "no one set out to fool anybody" when the show's winner used a stunt double dog in the final.
The disclosure that a lookalike dog was used by Jules O'Dwyer to walk the parallel ropes sparked 507 complaints by yesterday evening to communications watchdog Ofcom and another 130 to ITV.
Cowell, who was at a charity night for Together For Short Lives which helps terminally ill children, said the "confusion" of a live show was to blame for the mix up.
The music mogul, who attended the event with his partner Lauren Silverman, said: "No-one set out to fool anybody, the second dog actually had his collar with his name on."
He added: "I think now the dust has settled a bit we can accept that she won."
Cowell, who was joined at the event by fellow judges Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden, said it was an "honour" to help the charity.
He said: "I have been involved with the charity for many years and have seen the amazing work they do caring for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions as well as supporting their families.
"I hope that we can raise a huge amount of money at the ball and encourage others to get involved and help these children and families get the support and care they need so they can make every moment count."