According to showbiz editor Jess Phillips, the most emotional programme on television is not Ricky Gervais' After Life, BBC's The Repair Shop, or Antiques Roadshow, but rather Channel 4's The Dog House. Phillips, who describes herself as someone who rarely cries at on-screen content, admits the show never fails to devastate her.
What Makes The Dog House So Emotional?
The series follows Woodgreen Pets Charity as it opens its rescue centre to families, couples, and individuals looking to adopt a dog. Staff work to match each person with a pooch that suits their home and lifestyle. Potential adopters are taken to a private garden to spend time with prospective dogs, which is where emotions often run high.
Phillips notes that sometimes the first potential dog isn't a good match, meaning the pup must return to the shelter until it finds its perfect family. In other cases, one family member may bond with a dog while another does not. Some dogs are so frightened they refuse to play, and many have heartbreaking backstories of abuse.
Human Stories Add to the Tears
It's not just the dogs that tug at the heartstrings. Phillips highlights that many adopters come to the shelter after experiencing a major loss, receiving a diagnosis, or nearing the end of their own lives and wanting a senior dog to share their final days. These human stories, combined with the dogs' plights, have Phillips reaching for tissues despite being a self-proclaimed cat person.
Phillips expresses interest in a spin-off called Cat House, but jokes that it might not be as entertaining watching felines ignore their prospective families while distracted by food and treats.
Where to Watch
The Dog House is currently airing new episodes on Channel 4 and is available to stream now.
