Martin Clunes: A Man and His Dogs

Martin Clunes: A Man and His Dogs is a documentary film that explores the deep bond between humans and dogs through the personal experiences of actor Martin Clunes. The film premiered on ITV in the UK in 2008 and was later released on DVD.

Throughout the film, Martin Clunes shares his lifelong love for dogs and his experiences with various canine companions over the years. He also travels to different parts of the UK to meet other dog owners and learn about the important roles that dogs play in their lives.

The documentary is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of the relationship between dogs and humans. In the first chapter, Martin Clunes shares his childhood memories of his first dog, a Border Collie named Shep. He talks about how Shep helped him cope with the death of his father and how the dog's loyalty and companionship helped him throughout his life.

In the following chapters, Martin Clunes explores different aspects of dog ownership, including training, breeding, and adoption. He visits a dog training school and works with a professional trainer to learn about different training techniques and how to communicate effectively with dogs. He also visits a dog rescue center and speaks with the staff and volunteers about the adoption process and the challenges of caring for dogs in need.

Throughout the film, Martin Clunes also shares his experiences with his current dogs, a Labrador Retriever named Molly and a Jack Russell Terrier named Tina. He talks about the different personalities and behaviors of each dog and how they have enriched his life.

One of the highlights of the documentary is Martin Clunes' visit to the Crufts dog show, one of the largest and most prestigious dog shows in the world. He speaks with breeders, trainers, and owners about their dogs and the competition, and he also learns about the controversy surrounding certain breeding practices and the health issues that can arise in certain breeds.

The film also touches on the therapeutic benefits of dog ownership, including the use of dogs in hospitals and prisons to help patients and inmates. Martin Clunes visits a hospital where therapy dogs are used to help patients with mental and physical health conditions, and he speaks with the patients about the positive impact that the dogs have had on their lives.

Overall, Martin Clunes: A Man and His Dogs is a heartwarming and informative documentary that celebrates the love and companionship that dogs can bring to our lives. The film highlights the different roles that dogs play in our society and the important bond between humans and their canine companions. Whether you're a dog lover or simply interested in learning more about these fascinating animals, this film is a must-see.