Graeme Hall

Graeme Hall, better known as “The Dogfather”, is one of Britain’s best-known canine experts and the presenter of Channel 5’s hit series Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly.

Born in Selby, North Yorkshire, Graeme’s route to becoming a dog trainer was an unusual one - in fact, he didn’t own his first dog until he was around 40. After studying Spanish at the University of Hull, Graeme joined Weetabix on a graduate scheme and spent 21 years with the company, eventually becoming an Operations Manager responsible for around 200 members of staff.

After being made redundant in 2007, Graeme was considering a move into management consultancy when two Rottweilers, Axel and Gordon, changed the direction of his life. While taking them to training classes, the head trainer spotted Graeme’s natural people skills and suggested he consider dog training as a career. Graeme took the advice and established his business, The Dogfather, in 2008.

His success eventually led to television, first with Dogs Behaving Badly in 2017 and then Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, which launched in 2019 and has since reached its eighth series. Graeme has also presented The Dog Hospital with Graeme Hall, made a cameo in All Creatures Great and Small and is a bestselling author of several books about dogs and dog training.

But while Graeme has spent years teaching dogs new tricks, he won’t be a complete beginner when he steps onto the Strictly dance floor. He has previously competed in amateur ballroom and Latin competitions, so he’ll be dusting off his dancing shoes and seeing whether he can still remember a few old moves. And there could be an extra reason to celebrate if he makes it to Week 10 - Graeme turns 60 the Friday before the show!