Two Rivers Options A+E Networks’ Top Dog

Two Rivers Media has optioned the A+E Networks canine competition series Top Dog for both the U.K. and Irish markets.

Created by MGM’s Big Fish Entertainment and broadcast as America’s Top Dog on A+E Networks’ A&E channel in the U.S., the series sees teams of dogs and their owners compete on a canine obstacle course. The teams are tested on their speed, agility and teamwork by completing a series of expert tasks on the massive course. Each week’s winning team receives prize money and an additional sum to donate to the animal charity of their choice. In the final week of competition, top competitors return to the finale course to battle for the “Top Dog” title and an additional cash prize.

Two Rivers’ option of Top Dog was supported by the National Lottery through Screen Scotland’s Broadcast Content Fund.

Mirella Breda, head of entertainment at Two Rivers, said: “As soon as we saw America’s Top Dog, we knew that this was a fresh and exciting way to celebrate the unique bond between dogs and their owners. I can see why it’s been such a huge hit in the States—it’s got that magic combination of high octane challenges and big emotional stories. It’s exactly the kind of television Two Rivers is about and we can’t wait to bring this format to audiences in the U.K. and Ireland.”

Robyn Hurd, VP of content sales for EMEA at A+E Networks International, said: “We are so excited to be working with the wonderful team at Two Rivers and excited to bring Top Dog to screens in the U.K. and Ireland. Top Dog celebrates the special relationship between an owner and their dog and demonstrates the skill and intelligence of our favorite pets making this a sure-fire hit for a mainstream audience. We are thrilled about Top Dog—a unique and joyful format that will work well here and globally. ”

David Smith, director of Screen Scotland, added: “Congratulations to the team at Two Rivers. Screen Scotland is committed to supporting the Scottish sector to develop and secure large scale, returnable formats that can, in turn, deliver jobs, skills development and training opportunities.”