A new season of “The Dog House UK” dropped on Max, and it’s a wholesome watch. The show follows animal shelter Woodgreen Pets Charity and its staff as they work to match dogs to families. In the first episode, viewers meet three different families, all looking for dogs to fill different roles in their home. The episodes are filmed with interview segments of the families as well as showing what happens in the shelter. They’re on their fifth season and have done two Christmas specials.
First, a family of four, including a single dad and his three daughters, hope to find a dog that will match the chaos of the children, but also be a companion to dad when the girls aren’t there. The staff at Woodgreen Pets Charity asked the family some basic questions, and met as a team to go through their available dogs to decide which will be the perfect match. The chosen dog is named Papaya, who is a terrier cross. The girls immediately loved her, but dad isn’t able to get as much attention from her. Once the girls leave and it’s just the two of them, they have their time to bond.
Next, viewers were introduced to a couple and their dachshund Baxter, who we learn loves a cup of tea. Baxter is an only child and has a strong attachment to his mom, so they’re hoping to find a companion for him. Being a dachshund, Baxter loves other dachshunds, or as they’re referred to in the show, “sausage dogs.” The staff immediately thought of Tinkerbell, a six-year-old dachshund, who is rather chill and can match the energy of most dogs. When meeting the family’s dogs for the first time, Baxter is a bit territorial toward his mom, but as they spend more time together he lets up, and Tinkerbell is able to introduce herself. Tinkerbell and Baxter also look very similar so maybe they’re long lost cousins.
The last family is another couple who feel that it’s finally time to get a dog. They’re big dog lovers and after getting engaged their next step was to adopt. When talking to the staff they explained that they are open to pretty much anything, but want a dog to go on walks and spend time outside. Tom explains that he’s a warehouse manager and works really long hours. He had a heart attack at work, which was a big scare for him and his fiancée, Adele. After that shock, Tom had been working on getting healthy and practicing more physical activity. When the staff come together to discuss possible options, Rome and Daisy, a pair of jack russell terrier crosses are brought up. Throughout the episode viewers get to know Rome and Daisy, whose previous owner was in a motorcycle accident and no longer able to keep them. Rome is the more confident of two, Daisy taking more time to trust and come around to people. Tom and Adele are thrilled about the idea of two dogs. When they meet the pair Tom tears up a bit, and they begin to earn Daisy’s trust.
The episode then does a “sometime later” jump and we get to see each family with their dog (or dogs) and learn how their lives are now. The family of five changed Papaya’s name to Rosie and she has been a great addition for the girls and their dad. He calls her his “shadow.” Baxter’s humans Evonne and Graham did end up adopting Tinkerbell. They changed her name to Bella to fit with Baxter’s name, and Baxter has come around to having another dog in the house. Lastly, for Tom and Adele, the couple has seen Daisy grow and bond with them, and even be a boost to physical activity for Tom, which helps him feel better about himself.
This first episode was so wholesome and adorable. As a dog lover, seeing these pups find their families and homes is always so tender to see. The episode also ends with a look at the next episode, showing clips of the dogs and the families. I will definitely be continuing to watch this series over spring break.
Rating: 5/5 Dog Houses
