'I see these dogs more than my children': Behind the scenes with Greater Manchester's police dogs

In a quiet corner of Dunham Massey normally occupied by child scouts, some of Greater Manchester Police ’ (GMP)s most specialist (and cutest) recruits undergo rigorous training.

They’re known as man’s best friends, and perhaps in no place has that ever been truer than here. GMP have a number of dogs currently active in the force - each one is meticulously trained and paired with a handler that best suits their personality. They’re more than colleagues; the dogs and handlers live together, go through life together, and often stay together long past the dog (and sometimes handler’s) serving days.

It’s a partnership like no other, and like every great relationship, takes time to build. Dogs are often bred in the force, but don’t start training until they are around 18 months old. They’ll usually serve until they are about eight.

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“I see these dogs more than I see my wife and children,” lead instructor Wes Donnelly told the Manchester Evening News. His words emphasise why it’s so important that the dogs and their handlers have a good relationship - these bonds go far beyond work.

First, we are taken to see Tilly, a spaniel puppy born on New Years’ Day. She’s a police dog at the very start of her career; not in formal training yet, but even the games she plays are an informal way of getting her ready for the job.

When she has grown up a little, Tilly will join the other police spaniels doing victim recovery and finding cash, drugs, and firearms. But for now, it's hard to imagine this tiny, adorable puppy chasing anything except my shoelaces.

Her days are spent playing with the instructors and volunteers that spend their days ensuring the dogs