Thirteen-week-old springer spaniel puppies set to join the West Midlands Police force have been given names inspired by popular Cadbury chocolate bars. The six pups—named Rose, Boost, Freddo, Curly, Wispa, and Fudge—were born around Easter in Birmingham, the city renowned for hosting the Cadbury factory.

The puppies are currently in foster care with Andrea Byrne, a volunteer puppy walker who has supported West Midlands Police (WMP) for 15 years. Byrne also works for Mondelez International, the parent company of Cadbury. She said her long-standing admiration for police dogs motivated her to assist in their early socialization and training.

Byrne recalled the experience of welcoming previous litters into the office for socialization sessions and later witnessing the dogs in action during demonstrations. “I am honoured and thrilled to play a small part in this journey for a police puppy to hopefully fulfil their role as a police dog,” she said.

The early stages of socialization and training are critical for police dogs to develop the skills needed for roles such as search, detection, and public order duties. By providing foster homes, volunteers like Byrne help ensure the puppies are well-adjusted and ready for the rigorous demands of police work.

West Midlands Police has long integrated canine units into their operations, and the collaboration with volunteers and community partners remains essential in maintaining a strong, effective service. The initiative combining local heritage—with names reflecting Birmingham’s famed chocolate history—and the development of future service dogs highlights the community’s involvement in law enforcement support efforts.