More than 500 dogs have been put through their paces, as they trained for work in the UK's army at a facility in central England.

The Ministry of Defence are investing £3.1 million in equipment from Surrey-based Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment Limited, for their canine programme over a five year period.

The company, who currently employ only four people, said that equipment is designed with the dog’s comfortability in mind.

The British army uses a range of dog breeds in its operations at home and abroad, including German, Belgian and Dutch shepherds, as well as springer spaniels and labradors.

The courageous canines are trained to detect explosives, arms, drugs and vehicles as part of their military duties.

They also act as protectors to their army handlers.