Big dog dilemma in Army

ARMY chiefs say they are struggling to find homes for bigger “hero” dogs at retirement.

They get fewer people coming forward to care for breeds such as German shepherds.

Last month we revealed the Ministry of Defence had a rethink on its policy of putting down dogs that have left the services.

The Army’s Chief Vet, Colonel Neil Smith, right, promised more of them will be allowed to live.

But at the Leicestershire barracks where every Army dog and horse is trained and rehabilitated, staff are struggling to rehome bigger breeds.

Col Smith said: “Not many people want to rehome middle-aged or elderly German shepherds and Malinois.

“They’re a lovely dog but they’re not as easy maybe, or as popular, as a cockapoo.”

Dozens of staff at the Defence Animal Training Regiment in Melton Mowbray work to get dogs ready for civvy street.

We saw one three-yearold Malinois called Hummer, right, being put through his paces three weeks into his rehabilitation.

Even though he is now ready to be rehomed, he could be waiting a while for a family.

If you could help to rehome a larger dog, email charles. wadepalmer@ dailystar.co.uk.