POLICE are hunting with dogged determination to find German Shepherd dogs to become crime-fighters.
Thames Valley Police need "physically fit and inquisitive crime-fighting dogs" after competition for the breed by security companies, the RAF, Army and other police forces has meant a shortage of puppies.
It uses the dogs to track suspects or missing people, lost and stolen property and in restoring public order.
The police have 33 German shepherd general purpose police dogs for operational use, but is hoping to recruit more for training in autumn.
Dog trainer Sergeant Jerry Cox said: "We are always on the look out for new recruits. Ideally, we hope to attract male or female German shepherds aged between ten and 18 months.
"They should have very strong motivation to retrieve and be keen to play and interact with people."
He added that they should also be well socialised, possessive, bold and inquisitive, happy to travel in a vehicle but definitely not aggressive.
If you have German Shepherd dogs that could be suitable for police training please contact 01494 465888 for details
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article