Do You Know These UK Dogs? Eight Famous British TV Canines and Fun Facts

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Dogs have long been stars on British television, capturing hearts with their loyalty, bravery, and charm. From soap opera legends to royal companions, here are eight famous UK dogs who became TV icons, along with fun facts about their on-screen and real-life adventures.

.1 Wellard – EastEnders

Tough Terrier

Wellard, the Belgian Tervuren from the British soap EastEnders, was a Walford staple from 1994 to 2008 as Robbie Jackson’s loyal companion. Known for his gritty name (a nod to “well hard”), Wellard endured drama like biting Ian Beale and surviving a bus crash, only to meet a tragic end from theobromine poisoning after eating chocolate.

Fun Fact: Despite being a male character, Wellard was played by three female dogs: Zenna, her daughter Chancer, and granddaughter Kyte. Kyte, the longest-serving Wellard, also starred as Maximus’ pet wolf in the Oscar-winning film Gladiator.

2. Petra –

Blue Peter’s Pioneering Pup

Petra, a mongrel, was the first dog on the UK’s beloved children’s show Blue Peter, appearing from 1962 to 1977. Her gentle nature made her a favorite among young viewers across Britain.

Fun Fact: Petra’s popularity led to a tradition of Blue Peter pets, and her pawprint was immortalized in cement at BBC Television Centre in London.

3. Shep –

Blue Peter’s Energetic Icon

Shep, a Border Collie, joined Blue Peter in 1971 and became a British TV legend under presenter John Noakes until 1978. His lively antics endeared him to audiences nationwide.

Fun Fact: Noakes’ exasperated cry of “Get down, Shep!” during Shep’s energetic moments became a British catchphrase, still quoted fondly today.

4. Goldie

Blue Peter’s Golden Girl

Goldie, a Golden Retriever, starred on Blue Peter from 1978 to 1986, charming UK viewers with her calm demeanor and love for adventure, from studio segments to outdoor challenges.

Fun Fact: Goldie once “adopted” a litter of kittens on the show, showcasing her nurturing side in a heartwarming moment that became favourite.

5. Rufus –

Churchill’s Canine Confidant

Rufus, a Poodle, was Winston Churchill’s beloved companion, appearing in British newsreels and TV coverage during the wartime era. While not a regular TV star, his presence alongside the UK’s iconic Prime Minister made him a national figure.

Fun Fact: Rufus reportedly sat in on wartime meetings, and Churchill once quipped, “Rufus, you’ve heard secrets no dog should know!”

6. Greyfriars Bobby

Scotland’s Loyal Legend

Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier from Edinburgh, became a UK TV and film star through adaptations of his 19th-century story. After his owner, John Gray, died in 1858, Bobby guarded his grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard for 14 years, featured in BBC specials and the 2006 film Greyfriars Bobby.

Fun Fact: Tourists visiting Bobby’s Edinburgh statue often leave sticks and toys, believing the loyal terrier still loves to fetch in spirit.

7. Lassie

The Collie Superstar

Lassie, the Rough Collie, starred in the US TV series (1954–1973) but became a British household name through regular BBC airings and films like Lassie Come Home (1943). Her heroic rescues captivated UK audiences.

Fun Fact: It’s true—Lassie was played by male dogs, starting with Pal, a male Collie, as males were considered more photogenic and had more consistent coat quality.

8. The Queen’s Corgis

Royal British Stars

Queen Elizabeth II’s Corgis, starting with Susan in the 1940s, appeared in UK TV documentaries and news, including royal event coverage. The Queen owned over 30 Corgis, often seen at Buckingham Palace.

Fun Fact: The Corgis stole the show in a 2012 London Olympics sketch with Daniel Craig’s James Bond, showcasing their royal charm to a global audience.

These eight UK dogs, from Wellard’s Walford antics to the Queen’s Corgis, have left an indelible mark on British TV and culture, proving that dogs are more than pets—they’re national treasures.

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