From 600 BC to the present day dogs have been by our side at war. In the beginning dogs were used as a menacing and fighting presence, but their role has become more sophisticated as technology has changed warfare. As we researched some of the stories below we felt humbled by their bravery, obedience and intelligence. They have saved lives, died for us and suffered immeasurably, so we remember them this Remembrance Sunday and thank them for their continued service.

When family pets were 'called up' in WWII...
In WWII, an appeal was made by the War Office to dog owners, asking them to loan their dog to the Army. Astonishingly, within two weeks, 7000 families had offered their dogs as volunteers. It is hard to imagine we would do this today, but these were different times. They fulfilled different tasks - from sentinel dogs at the top of trenches to paratrooping dogs such as the famous Bing, who received the Dickin Medal for dropping into France on D Day. The dogs that were good rat catchers in the trenches were always popular!  

New duties in Iran, Afghanistan and Ukraine...
Mine detection became the focus in these wars. With nearly 50% of troops' deaths caused by landmines, detecting them was hugely important. Dogs are trained to recognise the smell of different explosives and sit passivley when they recognise them. As 30% of Ukraine territory is contaminated with mines, the EU has supplied 50 dogs and is training more to help detetct them. Mine detection is where dogs exceed our abilities. We simply could not survive without them.