Black Dog Furniture derives its name from Andy’s Labrador-cross dog “Arnie” who came to New Zealand from Sydney with Andy. Arnie or “Boo”, as he was affectionately known, had stood by Andy through thick and thin rapidly rose to the rank of managing director.
Arnie’s main day-to-day activity was to lie at the door of the furniture factory so that everybody had to step over him. It was a relaxed style of greeting that made visitors feel welcome and at home.
Arnie died at the age of 14 in 2002 and while there is no longer a dog to step over at the threshold, Andy’s faithful black dog is remembered in the name of a thriving business.