Paw-some abandoned puppy gets job as a police dog

Russo has adapted well to his new role in the police.

An abandoned puppy has now found a new lease of life sniffing out crime.

Russo, who is a lively Belgian Malinois, was originally rehomed by a rescue centre in Essex after he found wandering the streets near Heathrow Airport last year.

But after Russo's potential was spotted he was paired with experienced handler PC Lee Huffer to train as a police dog.

After an intense 8 week training course, last week Russo passed his exams to become a police dog.

Police Dog Russo and his partner PC Lee Huffer

PC Huffer's previous canine companion Chase recently retired and found a loving new home.

Now police dog Russo will fill his place helping fight crime.

“Russo certainly had a tough start to his life – most of which we know very little about." said PC Huffer.

"What we do know, however, is that he has adapted to this new role extremely well and that he will make an exceptional police dog.”

Belgian Malinois dogs are prized by police forces for their superb sniffing, like this one working for police in the US state of Colorado

Whilst it is not known why Russo ended up stray in the first place, the police think it could be down to his breed.

Dog Section Sergeant Nicholas Dachtler explained: "Belgian Malinois make excellent working dogs but very demanding pets.

"Sadly, some of these owners will not have the necessary skills or experience to train and own such a demanding dog – leading them to be given up to rescue centres or abandoned.

“I am just really pleased that Russo’s natural abilities as a working animal will now be put to use in protecting the public.”