The bad reputation of Staffordshire Bull Terriers has been challenged once again, with the introduction of the breed's first police sniffer dog.
Black and white Staffie Kos, a former rescue dog, was donated to Avon and Somerset Police 18 months ago by an RSPCA centre. Since then, the canine has transformed its life through training with dog handler PC Lee Web.
The dog has already proven his value, sniffing out heroin in a car in Bristol on his first day on the job.
"Like many breeds, Staffies can be tarnished with a bad reputation, which is unfair," PC Webb said.
"But Kos is the gentlest and kindest of dogs. He’s always been very playful and he absolutely loves the game of searching."
He added that there are other canines out there with the potential to join the police, if people would only recognise their ability.
Staffies usually require two meals a day, including a meaty dog food and biscuits. Renowned as energetic animals, they also require regular exercise and benefit from chew toys.
