Matt Baker is set to make a much-anticipated return to the BBC with his first solo television venture in six years. Best known for his work on Blue Peter and Countryfile, the beloved presenter is now fronting a brand-new BBC Two daytime series titled Matt Baker: Life With Dogs, produced by his own company, Big Circus Media.
This exciting series delves into the remarkable roles dogs play in everyday life. From hardworking sheepdogs and assistance dogs to therapy animals, the show highlights how dogs make invaluable contributions to society. It also sheds light on service dogs that aid police forces and military operations throughout the UK.
Speaking about the new project, Matt shared his enthusiasm with The Mirror: “Dogs have been a lifelong passion of mine, and I’m so excited to be making this series about the bond between humans and dogs. As well as earning my professional dog training qualifications, I’ll be meeting incredible canines who enrich our lives – whether it’s through cancer detection or simply companionship. It’s the ultimate tribute to the special connection we share with our dogs.”
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A BBC insider added, “Matt is a beloved presenter, and viewers will be thrilled to welcome him back with this new series. His passion for dogs makes him the perfect host for a programme that explores the many ways dogs enhance human lives beyond being pets.”
Currently in production and expected to air later this year, Life With Dogs comes at a poignant time for Matt, who recently mourned the loss of his beloved border collie, Bob. In an emotional tribute, Matt shared how Bob was a gentle companion during some of the most significant moments of his life and expressed his deep gratitude for the years they shared.
The series will also explore the specialized training of medical detection dogs, which can sense conditions such as seizures, as well as the vital roles dogs play in herding livestock and offering therapeutic support in hospitals and care homes across rural Britain.
Matt divides his time between an 11-acre smallholding in the Chiltern Hills and his family farm in the Durham Dales, dedicating much of his free time to dog training and care. Alongside Bob, he has also welcomed Ivy, a young dachshund, into his family.
After stepping down from The One Show in 2020 following nine years as co-presenter, Matt is now embracing new opportunities with this heartfelt and captivating series. Life With Dogs promises to celebrate the extraordinary bond between dogs and humans, showcasing the incredible ways these loyal companions enrich our lives.