Dakota wears her new stab-proof vest. Photo / via Police
New Zealand's four-legged police recruits are about to get an extra layer of protection.
Ten police patrol dogs will get their new stab-resistant harnesses this week, designed to shield the canines' vital organs from criminals' blades.
The harnesses will also protect the dogs from rogue blows and kicks.
This gives the dogs the same level of protection as their two-legged officers have while wearing stab-proof vests.
Wellington patrol dog Dakota tried her new harness on for the first time yesterday and seemed to be pretty happy with her new outfit.
"It's a bit of a milestone for the dog section in terms of staff and dog safety," Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson said.
"We've been really aware over the years that our dogs had only speed and mobility for protection, but with this new harness we've given them another level of protection alongside that."
Dogs based in Wellington, Palmerston North, Hamilton, New Plymouth, Nelson, Whangarei, Auckland, Christchurch, Rotorua and Tauranga will receive their new kit this week.
The harnesses, designed by Hamilton-based Sabre Tactical NZ, weigh just over 1kg and are specially designed to allow the dogs' full movement.
Another 120 harnesses are due to be issued soon and all police dogs will be harnessed within three months.
Officers were photographed helping to paint protest signs.