Watch The Wonder of Dogs

The Wonder of Dogs is a captivating and informative documentary series from MagellanTV that explores the many different breeds of dogs, their evolution, and their relationship with humans. Hosted by Kate Humble, Ruth Goodman, and Steve Leonard, the series premiered in 2013 and has received critical acclaim for its thoughtful exploration of the fascinating history of our beloved canine companions.

Over the course of six episodes, The Wonder of Dogs takes viewers on a journey through time and across the globe, investigating the many different ways that dogs have become intertwined with human history and culture. From the working dogs of ancient Rome to the beloved pets of modern times, the series examines the incredible adaptability, intelligence, and loyalty that make dogs such remarkable creatures.

The first episode, "Origins," begins by tracing the evolution of dogs from their wild wolf ancestors to the many different breeds that exist today. Viewers are introduced to some of the key scientific findings that have helped us understand how dogs have become the faithful companions that we know and love. From there, the series delves into the many different roles that dogs have played in human history, including as hunters, protectors, workers, and companions.

In subsequent episodes, The Wonder of Dogs explores how different breeds were developed for specific purposes, such as herding sheep or hunting game. The show also examines the impact of different cultures and environments on the development of dogs, from the sleek, speedy greyhounds of ancient Egypt to the sturdy, hardy huskies of the Arctic Circle.

Throughout the series, the hosts introduce viewers to a wide variety of dogs and their owners, highlighting the varied ways that dogs have become a part of our everyday lives. We see how service dogs help people with disabilities, how search-and-rescue dogs help locate missing persons, and how therapy dogs provide comfort and companionship to the sick and elderly.

One particular highlight of the series is the episode "Working Dogs," which explores the many different jobs that dogs have done over the centuries. From hunting and herding to police work and bomb detection, the show reveals the incredible range of skills and abilities that dogs possess. We see a team of rescue dogs in action, watch as a border collie expertly wrangles sheep, and even witness a pair of dogs working together to drive a team of sleds across the ice.

As the series progresses, The Wonder of Dogs does an excellent job of showcasing the unique personalities and traits of different breeds. Viewers will learn about the intelligence and athleticism of border collies, the loyalty and protectiveness of German shepherds, and the lovable goofiness of Saint Bernards. And, of course, the show also features plenty of adorable footage of puppies playing, snuggling, and generally being utterly charming.

Overall, The Wonder of Dogs is a delightful and informative series that will appeal to anyone who loves dogs or is interested in their history and evolution. With its excellent production values, engaging hosts, and wealth of fascinating information, the show is a true delight from beginning to end, and is sure to leave viewers with a new appreciation for our furry friends.

The Wonder of Dogs is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between September 15, 2013 and on MagellanTV