These puppies are more than just cute, they are mini-sleuths which will be trained to sniff out serious diseases.
The three girls and three boys, born at Christmas, are the first to be specially bred by the Medical Detection Dogs charity.
Soon they will be expertly trained to spot the subtle scent of diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s and malaria.
The little Labradors will also be taught to work with people with Type 1 diabetes, heart-rate condition postural tachycardia syndrome and severe allergies, to alert them when a medical emergency is about to happen.
MDD has trained dogs to detect the odour of Covid and they are now screening people.
Puppy supply and training manager Chris Allen says: “Sourcing puppies has been challenging during the pandemic.
“Starting our own breeding scheme will allow us to supplement our dog supply routes. The puppies are absolutely gorgeous and real characters already.
Chris adds: “We’ve got a confident one, a sensible one and a cheeky one – like with all siblings.”
Alf
Always first at the milk bar and food bowl, Alf is a clever boy and easily picked up the rudiments of toilet training. He’s a sociable, happy chappy.
Coco
She is like her mum in looks and expressions. Coco is so eager to investigate new things – she loves a game of tuggy, has endless energy and is very vocal.
Poppy
A pretty pup with very expressive, sometimes hang-dog eyes, she likes a nap, especially in Mum’s bed. Quiet but cheeky, she’s the thinker of the bunch.
Imperial
Impy is the smallest of the tribe, with a fluffier coat. But he is no shy “Mummy’s boy” as he now holds his own. He has heaps of spirit and enthusiasm.
Hershey
A sweet, cute, pretty girl. Hershey is very sociable and eager to please. She can’t fail to draw attention with her expressive face and long eyelashes.
Max
He enjoys rough and tumble with equally chunky brother Alf. Max is always in the thick of the action, then falls into a deep sleep on his back, snoring.
