A BID is being launched to give a town's dogs some social graces.

Middlesbrough Council is to work with Carrie Evans of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors to offer puppy socialisation, well mannered dog and pet training courses, spread over five and six weeks.

Dogs can be entered for bronze, silver or gold certificates and all pets enrolling for the Thursday classes, can be micro-chipped free of charge.

The council said the aim of the courses was to promote socially acceptable dog behaviour.

Defining what was meant by the phrase, council dog warden Jim Granville said: "It's when they are out walking; that they don't go for people, or go for other dogs. They will socialise at these classes; socialise with each other and get used to each other.

"We hope the effect of the classes will be to make owners more responsible and have more responsible dogs."

Paul Robertson, environmental protection manager with the council, has already been presented with a medal by the National Canine Defence League for his services to dogs.

He said: "The community protection service are delighted to support this initiative which will not only benefit dogs, but the general public too."

Courses must be booked in advance by telephoning Carrie Evans on (01642) 553202.