Happy birthday to Britain’s favourite four-legged icon

For 65 years, the Dulux Dog has been a familiar furry face to generations of British consumers. Now, 21-month-old Dorothy is the latest Old English Sheepdog to take the lead role in a Dulux ad campaign.

From happy accident to household name

The Dulux Dog story began by accident. In 1961, during the filming of an advert, a curious Old English Sheepdog named Dash, belonging to one of the crew, kept wandering into shot, keen to get involved in the action. The Director loved the footage so much that Dash made it into the final cut and became the star of the ad. 65 years later, and the Old English Sheepdog breed is still known as “the Dulux Dog”.

The Dulux Dog - A story that spans generations

The latest Dulux Dog, Dorothy, comes from a long line of Old English Sheepdogs. Both her mum, Vienna, and her grandmother, Olivia, fronted Dulux campaigns. In fact, every Dulux Dog seen in the last decade has come from the same family line, started by Dorothy’s great-grandmother, Madison, who was owner and breeder Ellen Wheeler’s very first Dulux Dog, in 2017.

Meet owner Ellen

Ellen knew from the very beginning that Dorothy was special. Today, that once tiny puppy takes centre stage as the new Dulux Dog.

“She is such a gentle sweetheart who had a tough start to life. She was so tiny, we named her Dot because she weighed less than half the other puppies.

We had to keep her warm with hot water bottles, and hold her against her mum to make sure she fed. She really had to fight to survive… she’s our special little girl.”

The Dulux Dog through the years

Life behind the lens

When she’s not filming, Dorothy loves playing tug of war with her mum, Vienna (much to Grandma Olivia's annoyance). She has endless energy for chasing balls and trying to befriend the family cat, who is less keen. After a busy day, Dorothy likes to hop onto the sofa for tummy tickles and a cuddle.

Coming soon to your screens

The Dulux Dog is starring in the next TV advert, helping you add a splash of colour, comfort and joy to your home. Watch this space.

Fun facts about the Dulux Dog

It takes over 2 hours to groom Dorothy to perfection
Dorothy attended Crufts 2026. She loved all the applause, assuming it was always for her!
She’s a nosy girl and loves watching the world go by from her window
She gets especially excited when she meets other Old English Sheepdogs
If you stop paying attention, she’ll gently poke you with her nose to remind you she’s still there
At home, Dorothy lives in the utility room, or under the stairs where she keeps all her toys
She LOVES playing tug with her mum Vienna – she wears her out!
If she could talk about Dulux she would say: it’s really all about ME ❤️

Have you ever met the Dulux Dog?

If you’ve ever met our famous Old English Sheepdog, we’d love to hear from you. Share your pics and memories on our TikTok and Instagram using #DuluxDog.

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A brand mascot that truly means something

Our lovable Dulux dog is so much more than just a mascot. For over 40 years, we’ve helped to raise funds for the Old English Sheepdog Rescue & Welfare. The aim of the rescue is to provide shelter, care, love and affection, medical treatment and re-homing, where possible for Old English Sheepdogs in need.

Paw-proof paint

Discover Dulux Easycare, the tough and washable paint with unique stain repellent technology that helps keep your home looking its beautiful best, even when your pets are running riot!

Discover Easycare

It’s a (Dulux) dog’s life

From an unexpected fame to starring roles on TV, discover the history of the Dulux dog.

Get the story

Find your perfect colour

The Dulux dog loves Bone China, Golden Cookie and Muddy Puddle – how about you?

Pick a colour

Inspiration for your home

Discover colour advice and home décor ideas for every room in your home.

Home décor ideas

Follow me!

Keep up with the Dulux Dog on social media to see what she’s been up to, plus discover fresh colour inspiration and decorating ideas.

Dulux Visualiser