Downward Dog: A Hilarious Canine Comedy Series

Downward Dog wasn’t just a show about a dog; it offered a unique perspective on the human-animal bond through the eyes of a philosophical canine named Martin. The ABC comedy, which premiered in 2017, starred Allison Tolman as Nan, Martin’s loving owner, and featured the voice talents of co-creator Samm Hodges as Martin.

The show explored the daily life of Nan, a woman juggling a demanding career and a complicated personal life, as narrated by her insightful and often anxious dog. Martin’s internal monologues provided a humorous and heartwarming commentary on Nan’s struggles, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the everyday challenges of being human.

The creators of Downward Dog, Samm Hodges and Michael Killen, aimed to create a show that went beyond typical talking animal tropes. They wanted to portray a realistic dog with genuine emotions and anxieties, using Martin’s voice to explore themes of loneliness, companionship, and the search for meaning in modern life.

Hodges, who voiced Martin, drew inspiration from his own childhood experiences with dogs, recognizing the profound emotional connection humans can have with their canine companions. He wanted to capture the essence of a dog’s experience, infusing Martin with human-like anxieties and existential musings.

The casting of Martin was crucial to the show’s success. Ned, a rescue dog from a Chicago shelter, was chosen for his authentic canine behavior. Unlike trained Hollywood dogs, Ned brought a naturalism to the role, embodying the spirit of an everyday dog. Initially, Ned was anxious on set, reflecting his background as a rescue dog, but he quickly adapted to his role as the star of the show.

Allison Tolman, known for her role in Fargo, initially hesitated to take on the role of Nan. However, after viewing the original web series that inspired Downward Dog, she was drawn to the show’s unique blend of sweetness, humor, and indie sensibility. She connected with the heartfelt portrayal of the human-animal bond and the exploration of Nan’s personal journey.

To achieve the effect of a talking dog, the creators employed innovative visual effects. Instead of replacing Martin’s muzzle entirely with CGI, they used motion capture technology to capture subtle movements of Ned’s face. Hodges would then record Martin’s dialogue in a voiceover booth, wearing motion capture equipment to sync his facial expressions with Ned’s. This meticulous process resulted in a more naturalistic portrayal of a talking dog, enhancing the show’s comedic and emotional impact.

Tolman, a lifelong cat owner, shared her perspective on the profound impact of animal companionship. She emphasized the transformative power of loving and caring for an animal, highlighting the often-overlooked significance of these relationships in shaping our lives. This theme resonated deeply with the show’s message, emphasizing the importance of the bond between Nan and Martin.

Despite its critical acclaim and unique premise, Downward Dog was canceled after only one season. However, the show’s eight episodes left a lasting impression on viewers, showcasing the comedic potential of a talking dog while exploring deeper themes of human connection and the search for belonging.