BBC ALBA’s new six-part series, Cù Leis Thu? A Puppy for Pàdruig is getting up close with Scotland’s best-loved dog breeds – from firm family-favourites to breeds you may be less familiar with – as we follow presenter Peter MacQueen choosing a new puppy.
TV personality and author Peter MacQueen has been on a journey to find a pup to take home to the cosy rural hut he shares with partner, Coinneach MacLeod (The Hebridean Baker), following the passing of their beloved Westie, Seòras, last Christmas.
Peter sets out to gather as much information as he can about Scottish dog breeds, from the rarest to the oldest, and everything in between. He remarks: “I hope to find a new puppy…but choosing one will be the challenge!”
Peter adds: “We often ask each other ‘Cò leis thu?’ [who do you belong to?]. It’s much more than just asking who your family is – it’s a question about your roots, your ancestors, and your place in the wider community. For me life isn’t complete without a dog, so this also begs the question “Whose dog are you? or ‘Cù leis thu?!” Afterall, the history of our Scottish dogs is so deeply connected to our story too.”
Starting in Skye, Peter meets one of the rarest dog breeds in the world – the Skye Terrier. After playing with the pups, he uncovers hidden secrets about the breed, which leads him to wonder if a Skye Terrier could fit in with their lives. Peter remarks: “From a practical perspective, could I look after that long hair? It’s difficult enough for me to look after my own beard!”
After a few more visits, Peter finds himself in Argyll and Bute discovering more about a dog breed very close to his heart – the West Highland Terrier. In the very place that the Westie originated, Peter learns the fascinating story behind why these charming dogs were bred, and how they got their distinctive white fur. Will the Westie pups prove to be irresistible to Peter? And if so, does he settle with one and resist the other breeds?
He continues to Glasgow’s famous Kelvingrove Park where, with the help of experts and a group of dog walkers, Peter sets out to see if genes play a role in shaping the dogs’ personalities.
The final episode, airing on Christmas Day, promises to deliver a heart-warming surprise and also discovers the rewarding experience of rescuing a dog. Animal shelters often see a huge increase in abandoned dogs after the festive season, when some owners realise they can’t keep up with the demands of a dog.
The new docu-series is set to entertain but also encourage potential dog-owners to think more carefully about their chosen breed and the responsibilities of bringing a dog into the family. While a puppy may appear to be the perfect Christmas gift Cù Leis Thu? A Puppy for Pàdruig reminds viewers that they are a lifelong commitment requiring training, socialisation and lots of love.
Tune in each week on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer to join Peter in pursuit of puppy facts, folklore and fun, from Tuesday 19 November at 8.30pm.
Don’t miss the Cu Leis Thu? A Puppy for Pàdruig finale surprise at 8.30pm on Christmas Day. Watch live or on demand (in Gaelic with English subtitles).