From the outside, they look like much-loved working dogs captured in a striking sunset photograph or a puppy smiling for the camera. In reality, they represent a highly specialised policing capability that helps protect some of the UK’s most sensitive sites and supports wider public safety.
Police Dogs Ernie and Evie
The Civil Nuclear Constabulary’s (CNC) Dog Unit plays a vital role in deterring, detecting and responding to threats across the civil nuclear sector. Working with their handlers, the dogs provide a visible policing presence on sites, support counter-terrorism activity and assist with operations in local communities.
Among the dogs currently serving are Nala, a specialist firearms, ammunition and component parts detection dog, explosive detection dogs Josie and Ernie, and trainee dog Evie, who is developing the skills needed for future operational deployments.
While each has a different role, they all contribute to the CNC’s mission of protecting critical national infrastructure and keeping people safe.
A key part of that role is deterrence. The presence of highly trained police dogs provides a clear signal that the CNC has specialist capabilities designed to detect threats, prevent crime and support a rapid operational response where required.
The dogs are regularly involved in wider policing activity, including Project Servator deployments. Project Servator uses highly visible and unpredictable policing tactics to deter, detect and disrupt criminal activity, helping to create a hostile environment for anyone considering criminal or hostile acts.
The Dog Unit’s capabilities are extensive.
General Purpose dogs are trained to track and locate missing people, search for suspects, recover evidence and support the apprehension of offenders when necessary. Their ability to search large areas quickly and effectively makes them a valuable operational resource, both within the civil nuclear sector and when supporting neighbouring police forces.
Police Dogs Josie and Nala
The CNC also maintains one of the largest cohorts of explosive detection dogs in the UK. These specialist teams are trained to detect a wide range of explosive substances and play an important role in supporting protective security and national counter-terrorism efforts. Their work strengthens the CNC’s ability to identify potential threats and protect nationally significant infrastructure.
Police Dog Josie
Alongside them are specialist detection dogs trained to search vehicles, buildings and open areas. These dogs can also screen people moving through busy environments. Their ability to detect firearms, ammunition, component parts and other specialist target odours enhances both site security and wider policing activity.
Behind every deployment lies a significant commitment to training. All CNC dog teams are trained to nationally recognised standards and undertake regular assessments and refresher training throughout their operational careers, ensuring they remain ready to respond whenever needed.
Whether patrolling a nuclear site, supporting local policing partners, taking part in a Project Servator deployment or simply beginning their journey as a trainee, every dog forms part of a specialist capability that helps protect the public, safeguard critical national infrastructure and deter those who would seek to cause harm.