Meet Shiro
Breed: Japanese Spitz
Barking from: Rotorua
What's up dog?
Here at Digital Natives Academy we run full time course for youth who are often forgotten about or left behind in mainstream schooling. These students come to us to learn and study in coding, game design, content creation and other digital pursuits. DNA is a safe space for nerds and geeks a like. Having Shiro onsite has not only made a huge impact on our students but also on staff as well. Even thou he is still a young puppy of 11 months old, he already understands the assignment of dealing with staff and students in this environment. His calm and welcoming nature allows students to come up to him, sit, talk to and pet him. That very act alone can be seen on the students demeanour as they instantly feel more calm and composed. For staff as well his presence and pets and cuddles allows for them to take a minute to wash their stress away. Every work place and every school should have a dog. The impact they can have on wellbeing is massive and Shiro is proof of that. The sheer joy he brings is priceless. And he adapts to different people and their personalities and relationships with him, some people he will jump up and down and play with, others he will walk up to and demand pets and cuddles, others he will bark at until they come up and acknowledge him. Shiro is a dog full of personality and presence especially in our academy
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.
