THREE Mexican hairless dogs have become some of the more unusual dogs to start training for a rewarding life as hearing dogs.

Kojak, Bandit and Amigo are the latest recruits to be taken on by national charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, based in Saunderton.

They are now being socialised with some of the charity's volunteers.

There are only 18 Mexican hairless dogs in this country and, although a registered breed, they cannot at present be shown at Crufts.

There is only one breeder in the UK who, frustrated by not being able to show the dogs, decided to donate three puppies to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to show that they are intelligent dogs and capable of doing something worthwhile."

Jane Hazelwood, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People's dog supply co-ordinator who assessed the three dogs, said: "We have never used this breed before.

"Kojak, Bandit and Amigo are friendly with people, playful and inquisitive all traits we look for in a potential hearing dog, so we have high hopes for their future."

If you have or know of a dog that may be suitable call 01844 353898