The series revolves around a single dog that appears to still roam the earth in the complexity of the relationships of the twenty-first century on a daily basis.
You don't need to be a dog lover to love Downward Dog. There's something universal about the sensation that comes from seeing the world a little differently.
Dog actually turns out to be a delightfully amiable summer companion: smart, funny, charming, with terrific performances from the always wonderful Allison Tolman (Fargo) as Nan and the completely irresistible Ned as her dog, Martin.
It's an obedience school's worth of obstacles, really, but a game cast -- including a beyond personable dog -- helps Downward Dog clear most of those hurdles.
Downward Dog is primarily for dog lovers. Only they can fully grasp what no one else does and which this new series so obviously does as well: Dogs are people, too.
I don't know how Downward Dog found its way onto a broadcast TV network's comedy slate, but after steamrolling through the four episodes made available to critics, I'm just thrilled it did.
A sweet little show, low key and more smile-worthy than hilarious, Downward Dog won't be for everyone. Animal lovers (count me in that group) are likely to find it adorable; cynics, unless they really, really love dogs, probably should stay away.
