Stray puppy becomes Durham Police dog

A stray German Shepherd–Malinois puppy named Chief was taken to a rescue shelter and was assessed by Durham Police’s dog support unit; at 18 weeks he passed initial tests and is now with an experienced handler beginning training.

Chief is a German Shepherd and Malinois cross who was found abandoned and handed to a rescue shelter by a dog warden. A Durham Police chief inspector noticed him during a meeting with the rescue charity. The force’s dog support unit assessed Chief and, at 18 weeks old, he passed his initial tests. He is now settled with an experienced handler and is beginning environmental training to build confidence and learn new skills. Key facts: - The puppy was found abandoned and brought to a rescue shelter by a dog warden. - A Durham Police chief inspector spotted the puppy during a meeting with the rescue charity. - The force’s dog support unit assessed Chief and he passed his first tests at 18 weeks old. - Chief is now placed with an experienced handler and is starting environmental training and confidence-building work. - The dog was named after the chief inspector who first offered him a second chance, and the force said it will share updates on his progress. Summary: Chief’s assessment and placement mark his move from rescue care into a working-dog environment. He is beginning structured training with his handler, and Durham Police have announced they will provide further updates on his development.