Emmy Winner Brandon McMillan Takes “Lucky Dog” TV Franchise Down Under with New CBS Series

Popular animal trainer Brandon McMillan will host “Lucky Dog: Down Under” premiering October 4 as part of expanded weekend morning programming block on CBS

NEW YORK, NY, August 28, 2025 — The beloved Lucky Dog franchise is expanding internationally with a new Australian-themed spinoff series set to premiere this fall. Lucky Dog: Down Under will debut Saturday, October 4 on CBS, bringing viewers heartwarming stories of Australian shelter dogs finding their forever homes.

Emmy Award-winning animal trainer Brandon McMillan returns to host the new Lucky Dog spinoff series, which is based on the international format of The Dog House Australia. The show will air weekend mornings as part of CBS’s educational programming block, CBS WKND, immediately following Lucky Dog: Reunions to create a full hour of Lucky Dog content (check local listings).

Hearst Media Production Group is producing the show for Paramount’s CBS Television network.

Australian Stories, Universal Appeal

Lucky Dog: Down Under promises to showcase the unique charm of Australian rescue dogs, from scrappy terriers and energetic kelpies to partially deaf cattle dogs. The series will follow these shelter animals through their rehabilitation journey as they transition into loving family homes, demonstrating that second chances can transform lives for both pets and their new families.

“The Lucky Dog franchise has informed and captivated audiences for more than a decade,” said Bryan Curb, executive vice president and general manager of education/information at Hearst Media Production Group. “Taking viewers ‘Down Under’ will add an international spin with uplifting stories told by America’s favorite animal trainer, Brandon.”

A Proven Track Record

Since launching in 2013, the original Lucky Dog series has become a powerhouse in educational television, helping to rescue, rehabilitate, train and re-home more than 200 dogs. The show’s impact extends far beyond entertainment, with McMillan’s expert training techniques helping countless families successfully integrate rescue dogs into their homes.

McMillan, a professional animal trainer who has worked with everything from household pets to exotic animals for Hollywood productions, brought his unique blend of expertise and compassion to television with Lucky Dog. His approach combines scientific training methods with genuine care for both animals and their human families.

The franchise’s success is reflected in its impressive award collection: three Daytime Emmy Awards, 55 Telly Awards, seven Parents’ Choice Awards, and five Cynopsis Kids Imagination Awards. McMillan himself has earned two Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Host in a Lifestyle/Travel/Children’s or Family Viewing Program.

Expanding the Mission

The addition of Lucky Dog: Down Under represents more than just programming expansion—it’s an opportunity to showcase animal rescue efforts on a global scale. Australia has its own unique challenges and successes in animal welfare, from dealing with specific breeds like cattle dogs and kelpies to addressing the needs of hearing-impaired animals.

The series will likely highlight the dedicated work of Australian animal shelters and rescue organizations, potentially inspiring viewers to support similar efforts in their own communities. This international perspective could also introduce American audiences to different training techniques and rehabilitation approaches used in Australia.

What to Expect

Viewers can expect the same heartwarming formula that made the original Lucky Dog series successful: compelling rescue stories, expert training demonstrations, and the joy of watching shelter dogs bloom in loving homes. The Australian setting will add fresh scenery and introduce audiences to breeds and rescue scenarios they might not encounter in American-focused programming.

The show will air as part of CBS WKND, the network’s weekend educational programming block that serves the important function of providing quality, informative content for families. This scheduling ensures that Lucky Dog: Down Under will reach audiences looking for meaningful, educational entertainment.

Lucky Dog: Down Under premieres Saturday, October 4 on CBS as part of the CBS WKND programming block. Check local listings for specific air times in your area.