Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S), the procurement arm of the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded a new contract for a ‘canine catalogue’ to support and train its pack of more than 500 military working dogs.

From German Shepherds, Belgian Shepherds and Dutch Shepherds to Springer Spaniels, Labradors and other carefully selected breeds, there are hundreds of dogs currently serving at home and overseas to ensure the protection and prosperity of our nation.

Surrey based Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment Limited has been awarded the contract for five years, with the option to extend it by two more years. The contract has an estimated overall value of £3.1 million for the full term. As a Small Medium Enterprise (SME), Von Wolf currently employs four members of staff. This contract will create an additional role within the organisation.

Working across the Army, RAF, Ministry of Defence Police (MDP), Germany Guard Service, MOD Guard Service and Regimental Mascots, the highly versatile dogs’ needs are catered to, ensuring they are well looked after with enriching, stimulating activities and trained for detecting explosives, arms, vehicles and drugs, but also for providing protection and assistance to their handlers.

Alongside keeping the dogs active and entertained, their work can be split into two categories: detection and protection, and the one-stop ‘canine catalogue’ will have a key role in ensuring their welfare and delivering enhanced training.

Developed with user experience in mind, the Canine Support Solution seeks to provide a diverse range of essential training and welfare items including, but not limited to, protective equipment for the dogs such as goggles to guard their eyes, hearing protection, safety boots for their paws, and cool vests and flotation devices for physical and environmental protection.

The Specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search (EOD&S), Exploitation and Countermeasures (SEEC) team within DE&S tendered for the Canine Support Solution contract.

Liam Brown, SEEC Operations Manager at DE&S said: “The welfare and security of all Military Working Dogs and handlers is of paramount importance to us, and this contract with Von Wolf will enhance our offering by catering to their needs and specific requirements in the most efficient way.

“Von Wolf will be instrumental in contributing to the continued prosperity and security of the UK, ensuring we continue to deliver the highest level of training and protection for all MOD working dogs day-to-day, and during specialist operations and directed tasks.”

The contract will also supply everyday products such as waste bags, bowls, balls, leads and harnesses, through to specialist exercise aids and agility equipment such as tunnels, weave poles, jumps and even toys, ensuring they are stimulated and their lives enriched throughout their time in service.

Sally Dickinson, Director, Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment Limited, said: “As a trusted partner to the Ministry of Defence, we at Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment are incredibly proud and excited to be awarded this contract. It underscores our commitment to providing the best possible support to the UK’s military working dogs, ensuring they have the equipment needed to thrive in both training and operational environments. This is more than just a business opportunity for us – it’s a responsibility we take to heart, knowing that the safety and wellbeing of these remarkable animals play a crucial role in our nation’s security.”

All items supplied through the Canine Support Solution will be of a suitable standard and quality that enables the MOD to continue to meet the five dog welfare needs listed in the Government’s Animal Welfare Act 2006 and detailed in the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) Code of practice for the welfare of dogs.