Police dogs’ training is not to be sniffed at

8:30am Tuesday 8th April 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

A SHOPPING centre became a school for sniffer dogs yesterday.

Six animals from the North- East police dog training school visited Darlington's Cornmill Centre to gain experience in dealing with the public.

The dogs spent the day searching for drugs, led by plain-clothed officers.

Dog trainer PC Steve Craigs said the day had been a great success.

"It was about building the dogs' mental and physical stamina, as well as working on their search times," he said.

"They have to learn - we can't just throw them in at the deep end."

Among the dogs was 15- month-old collie, Patch.

PC Craigs said Patch had struggled with the earlier training but was beginning to show signs of promise.

He added: "He was going to be a free-searching dog, but he is very methodical and very slow. But by working him on the lead, we can dictate his pace and he is taking to this method much better."

Patch will remain with PC Craigs until the completion of his training, which could take until Christmas.

"I always get attached to them," said PC Craigs.

"But at least I know that when he does go he will go to a good home and be well looked after."

PC Craigs said that during the course of yesterday's exercise no members of the public were found to be carrying drugs.