Meet Frieda
Breed: German Shepherd
Barking from: Northland
What's up dog?
Frieda the German Shepherd deserves to be top dog.
Since she was rehomed to me as a 4 year old on April 9th, two years ago, my quality of life has improved intensely.
I am autistic (among other things) and here are some of the jobs she does for me;
- notifies me when I'm stressed, because I don't notice signals from my body so when she taps me and tells me it helps me regulate myself
- she gives the best comfort cuddles
- she takes good care of me and is an endless source of joy
- she also tells anyone or any vehicle driving past our home too slowly to go the heck away, which is also hilarious because her past owner gave her to me because she never barked once for him but for me she is a fantastic guard dog!
Frieda is a kind dog. She loves people, eggs, and car rides.
Frieda is an endless source of comfort and care to me, there is so much more I have to say but don't want to make.this email any longer.
I was looking for a dog to help with my depression and she worked better than my anti depressants. Now I'm on the right medication we have it good, she is spoiled and does cool things like following non verbal commands and has all the things a dog could want.
Frieda was given to me because she wasn't a good enough German Shepherd but to me, she is everything.
She was so anxious when I got her and now she is so happy and loves going places and getting cuddles and attention - the dog who lives with me now is nothing like the dog who was dropped off at my house two years ago.
She deserves the world and I do my best to give it to her.
Thank you Frieda, my therapy. My love. My support network. My babysitter. The one who calms panic attacks and calms paranoia and bad brain days.
2025 NZ People's Choice Award
We believe no dog should be left behind.
Every dog entered into the competition is automatically in the running for the 2025 People’s Choice Award — and the winner will be decided by you, the public.
This year, we’re giving the aroha back to our communities.
Each year, our campaign is supported by a number of incredible charities across Aotearoa that work tirelessly to improve the lives of dogs and people alike. In 2025, we’re shining a spotlight on these organisations and the vital mahi they do.
As part of the voting process, every voter will have the chance to donate to our amazing mental health or dog-focused charities.
It’s your vote, your voice, and your opportunity to make a difference.
