Australian dog 'too friendly' for police force given government position

June 9 (UPI) -- A German Shepherd deemed to be too friendly to work for Australia's K-9 police unit was given a government position.

The Governor of Queensland Paul de Jersey shared photos of Gavel the German Shepherd, who was named Vice-Regal Dog, after being denied a role with Queensland police service as a 6-month-old puppy.

"Since then he has outgrown four ceremonial coats, undergone a career change, and brought untold joy to the lives of the governor, Mrs. de Jersey, Government House staff, and the thousands of Queenslanders who have since visited the estate," the governor said. "We think you will agree that he has become a much cherished part of Government House life!"

Gavel arrived at his foster home with an established lineage that had some believe he was destined to serve on the police force.

"Gavel comes from a long line of pedigree," a police press release stated. "If the family bloodline is anything to go by, in 16 months Gavel will be tracking and catching criminals as a proud member of the Queensland Dog Squad!"

His pedigree was ultimately not enough to land Gavel a spot on the K-9 unit as police said he was too sociable and "did not display the necessary aptitude for a life on the front line."

Queensland police decided to relocate Gavel to a ceremonial position where he captured the heart of Governor de Jersey, who shared a photo of the German Shepherd in his uniform applauding his change of career.

"He may have missed out on becoming a Queensland Police Service Dog, but it is abundantly clear that Gavel has the characteristics necessary to adequately fulfil duties as Queensland's official Vice-Regal Dog," the governor said.