ESSEX Police has released a video of the training of its latest recruits - three German Shepherd dogs.

Cooper, Quando and Obi have completed an intensive 13-week training course to learn new skills ahead of next week's passing out parade which will see them qualify as licensed police dogs.

The German Shepherd trio who are just over a year old, are trained to deal with whatever comes their way, using realistic situations and props alongside approved training methods to get the very best performance out of each of them.

Each one is lovingly looked after by their handler, and they're regarded as part of the family.

Cooper can't wait to get to work each day and get started on learning new things, Quando is full of energy and drive to succeed, and Obi is very vocal, responding to all the new sights and sounds each day.

The force says: "Watch as they train, showing their agility, strength and speed - everything they need to catch criminals."