Meet Piper

Breed: Nelson

Barking from: Tracks Lost Dogs All Over New Zealand

Job Title: Labrador/Springer Spaniel

What's up dog?

Piper is the only trained tracking dog in New Zealand that is specifically trained to locate a lost dog anywhere in New Zealand. Piper had her first find at 6 months old… which by itself is amazing… as police dogs and search and rescue dogs are only just starting the training pathway at this age. Piper travels anywhere all of New Zealand with her handler when needed by owners of lost dogs… at a moment’s notice.

Piper has been involved in and helped solve some high-profile cases… from 7 days through to 8 weeks plus missing. Piper has helped reunite missing dogs and their families no matter the weather or the outcome… both Piper and her handler work hard at reuniting lost dogs with their families. Piper has been in newspapers all over New Zealand and also on TV and other media platforms with some of the cases.

Piper and her handler do this at no cost to the public for their services.

2025 NZ Top Dog with a Job Award

Judging and criteria

Purpose

This award recognises a working dog that goes above and beyond to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether supporting people or fellow animals, this dog’s daily efforts help improve wellbeing, provide support, or create meaningful change in their community.

Reach

Does your dog make a difference in the life of one individual, or do they support an entire group, workplace, or community? Tell us who they help and how far their support reaches.

Impact

What kind of impact does your dog have in their role? Share how they’ve enhanced wellbeing, supported mental health, or improved the lives of those around them