dog Finn has died aged 14.

The Heroic German Shepherd, who was stabbed multiple times saving the life of his police owner PC David Wardell, has passed away. 

The Thin Paw Foundation, who are a national charity supporting serving and retired police dogs, announced the sad news on social, on Friday.

They shared a photograph of the beloved canine and wrote: ‘We’re deeply sad to announce the passing of our Ambassador, Retired Police Dog Finn at the age of 14.

‘He leaves a huge legacy behind, having saved the life of his handler PC Dave Wardell on duty, whilst he himself had been stabbed multiple times.

Sad news: Britain’s Got Talent dog Finn has died aged 14

Canine icon: The Heroic German Shepherd, who was stabbed multiple times saving the life of his police owner PC David Wardell, has passed away

Stand down with pride: The Thin Paw Foundation, who are a national charity supporting serving and retired police dogs, announced the sad news on social, on Friday

‘Following his recovery, Finn and Dave then went on to campaign for Finn’s law which gave greater protection for service animals across the United Kingdom.

‘Our thoughts are with Finn’s family at this very difficult time.Finn, your legacy will live on, may you stand down with pride. RIP Finn, 2009-2023.’

Finn, slot777 dubbed Fabulous Finn, was made an ambassador for the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a national charity that supports police dogs.

Trustee Kieran Stanbridge said it had been ‘an honour’ to work alongside Finn as he helped raise awareness of the medical problems and costs facing retired service animals and their families.

Kieran said, it is ‘one of many ways he made a difference to so many animals’ lives. We will miss him immensely.’

Finn won the hearts of the nation as a Britain’s Got Talent finalist.nearly died after the blade missed his heart by ­millimetres in the attack on Dave in Stevenage, Hertfordshire on October 5 2016.

Finn was stabbed twice with a hunting knife after grabbing the leg of an armed suspect who was attempting to jump over a fence.

The assailant also stabbed Pc Wardell in the hand, but was prevented from landing a fatal blow thanks to Finn, who pulled him back.

Hero: Finn nearly died after the blade missed his heart by ­millimetres in the attack on Dave in Stevenage, Hertfordshire.He did not let go of the attacker until back-up arrived to arrest him

Shocking: The pooch was close to death when a 10-inch blade narrowly missed his heart during the horrific attack

He did not let go of the attacker until back-up arrived to arrest him.The attack was regarded as ­criminal damage to property in the eyes of the law.

A 16-year-old boy from London, who could not be named for legal reasons, was found guilty of stabbing Finn and wounding PC Wardell. He was sentenced to youth custody. 

For his bravery, Finn was honoured with the PDSA Gold Medal, which is known as the animals’ George Cross.Finn returned to duty, before retiring in 2017. 

PC Wardell campaigned for greater legal protection for service animals and to prevent those who attack or injure service ­animals from claiming it as self-defence.

, which highlighted pictures of the injuries he suffered and his brave recovery.

After joining the Finn and Dave on stage for a trick, an emotional Simon Cowell told the officer: ‘When I hear about animal cruelty, especially dogs, it upsets me.A dog will literally give up its life for you. Finn is beautiful, I love him.’

At the time, he said: ‘There isn’t a bigger stage than Britain’s Got Talent. If I can tell Finn’s story, showcase service animals and talk about Finn’s Law, then I’ve already won.’

Finn wowed the judges with his magic tricks and mind-reading skills, making it all the way to the series final.