Sometimes the path to greatness is not a straight line, as Gavel the German Shepherd has found.
A police dog academy in Queensland, Australia had no choice but to fail Gavel for being too sociable, according to the BBC.
Gavel, officials declared, "did not display the necessary aptitude for a life on the front line." Just last year, however, the academy was looking forward to the pup based on his lineage.
"Gavel comes from a long line of pedigree... 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!" the press release stated.
When one door closes, another one opens; during his training, Gavel was being fostered by Paul de Jersey, Governor of Queensland. Upon hearing the news, de Jersey decided to appoint Gavel as his vice-regal dog, a position which requires him to welcome tour groups to the Paddington House, provide stress relief to staff and attend formal functions with de Jersey.
Gavel has become such an asset to the team that a coat was made especially for him. The bespoke piece features the Governor's Personal Standard, St. Edward's Crown and the official bird emblem of Queensland. In other words, Gavel is dapper AF.