A retired military working dog called Kuno has been awarded the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross after running through gunfire to tackle an Al Qaeda insurgent.

Kuno, a Belgian Shepherd Malinois, was hit by bullets to his back legs during the raid in 2019, leaving him in need of several operations and eventually the amputation of part of one paw.

However, the then-four-year-old dog proved to be the difference in the siege, with his intervention credited with turning the tide when the assault force was pinned down under grenade and machine-gun fire.

Despite the pain he later endured, a pair of prosthetic limbs mean Kuno is now able to enjoy retirement.

Chief defence veterinary and re-homing officer Colonel Mark Morrison said: “I’ve had the privilege of meeting him on several occasions and every time I see him, you look into his eyes and you can see his intelligence, his determination to please.

“He’s interested in everything and he’s just an amazing character. He is both sociable and businesslike… and you don’t get that all the time. A really special dog.”

The PDSA Dickin Medal is the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross, and was awarded to Kuno on Tuesday during a virtual presentation.

He joins a select group of 72 animals who have received the honour, including dogs, horses, pigeons and a cat.

“They’re really important, in some niche roles they are absolutely central,” Colonel Morrison said.

“They provide the ability to detect explosives or other threat substances. In other instances what we value is their ability to protect. Their physical presence is enough in some respects.

“Of course, they’re great companions and their loyalty makes all the difference.”