Viper is a German Shepherd just months off retirement after a colourful career in the West Midlands Police as a Firearms Support Dog.

Handler, Police Constable Dave Short gives an insight into how the relationship has evolved over the years with Viper, who was his first police dog. Dave joined the Dog section with 17 years of policing under his belt, but as a newbie in the Dog Unit, learned alongside Viper on the job.

It's a varied life, and Dave and his dogs are deployed in a wide range of situations. As Viper heads towards retirement with Dave's family, the newest member of the team is trotting along behind. Six month old German Shepherd, Loki, another has big shoes to fill, but things are looking good so far.

This episode of Dogs with Jobs was recorded at Crufts 2025.

You may also enjoy these connected episodes:

• P.D. Chase and the career arc of a general purpose police dog
• P.D. Meika, who searches for London criminals' cash, drugs and firearms
• P.D. Ted, the explosives detection dog with the West Midlands Police
• P.D. Jax the victim recovery dog with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary

• Mika, the well being and trauma support dog in the Met
• Champ, the engagement dog working in child protection in the Victoria police
• Keo the well being dog in the UK police; and
• Mabel the emotional support worker in the Fire Service

Do you work your dog?

Or perhaps you know someone else who might like to come on the show? I love all and any working dogs and am always looking for dogs to interview.

Get in touch with me, Kate, via team@shineradio.uk.

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