Meet Poppy
Breed: Griffon x lhasa apso
Barking from: Christchurch
What's up dog?
We have a few dogs that come into our office regularly, but I'm very lucky that mine is Top Dog, and very loved by everyone, with even the other dog owners (particularly those with dogs too naughty to come in) commenting that she is their favorite, and tge best dog. People love the way she follows me around the office when I'm walking around. They love that she just sits by my desk and willingly accepts pats, or plants herself in the middle of walkways for better effect. My podmates are delighted when she pokes her nose under the barrier to say hi. One of my workmates, Carly, doesn't like dogs. But a friend and colleague asked her what about Poppy? Her reply was that ""Poppy's not really a dog though, she's just another person.""
Poppy loves our EA, because our EA loves dogs, and especially Poppy. And has no concept of appropriate treat size for different dogs. So my 7.5kg dog gets a light dinner on office days, after pigging out on the same number of treats offered to the 30kg dogs. I'd taken her into the office a few times, but started taking her in more a couple of years ago, on the day we got news that two of our close colleagues had been killed overnight in a climbing accident. It was a big shock, and I asked our location manager if I could bring Poppy in. He thought it was a good idea. Dogs just have this real sense of empathy to them. Poppy spent the afternoon, and many days over the following weeks, not staying close to me as she usually does, but wandering and spending time with anyone who needed it, of her own volition. I think that really, this is why everyone in our office talks of her as their favorite, and introduces her to newcomers to the office as the best dog. Other dogs came in over that time too, but Poppy had the right calm, gentle temperament that made her appreciated. Even now, if someone's having a rough time, she'll quietly move to sit by them for a bit and share that with them.
2025 NZ Top Office Dog Award
Judging and criteria
Purpose
Whether they’re curled up under a desk, joining video calls from home, or making the rounds in the office, dogs have an incredible impact on workplace wellbeing. This award celebrates the ultimate four-legged teammate — a dog that brings joy, calm, and connection to the people they work alongside. From tail wags and morning greetings to emotional support and midday walk breaks, we’re looking for a canine who truly lifts workplace spirits.
Reach
Does your dog support one dedicated human, or boost the mood of an entire team? Tell us who benefits from their presence — whether they’re a loyal work-from-home companion or the unofficial office mascot.
Impact
How has your dog made a difference? Share how they’ve improved mental health, lifted team morale, or contributed to a more positive workplace culture. Include specific examples or stories of their impact.
Quirks and Talents
Every top dog has something that makes them special. What’s their signature trait? Do they have a unique talent, quirky habit, or an unspoken superpower that sets them apart?
