An 18-week-old puppy found abandoned on the street has been given a new life as a trainee service dog with Durham Constabulary in County Durham. The German Shepherd and Malinois cross, named Chief, was officially taken in by the force on 25 February 2026 after being rescued from a local shelter.
A dog warden first discovered the young dog and took him to a rescue centre. During a meeting at the charity, a police chief inspector noticed the puppy and thought he would be a good fit for police work. The dog was named Chief to honour the officer who spotted his potential.
The puppy has now joined the Dog Support Unit to begin his official training. He passed his first assessments and is currently living with an experienced handler who is helping him build confidence and get used to different environments.
Local residents who find stray or abandoned animals are encouraged to contact the Durham County Council dog warden or the RSPCA. The police should only be contacted on 101 if there is an immediate concern for public safety.
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