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Victoria’s Dog, Dash, Has Plenty of Royal Pedigree

2017-05-15

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Victoria - Dash

While much in Victoria’s world changed when she became the Queen of England at the tender age of 18, one thing that remained the same was the unconditional love she received from her adorable dog, Dash.

Off camera, Dash’s real name is Tori and this nine and a half year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has achieved quite a lot in her life. In fact, she’s played Victoria’s loyal companion Dash, not once, but twice!

When she was just a puppy, Tori was discovered by Gill Raddings Stunt Dogs & Animals. Shortly thereafter, it was determined that she’d make a perfect Dash for the 2009 Emily Blunt-led film, “The Young Victoria.”

All of these years later, Sonia Turner of Gill Raddings Stunt Dogs & Animals, is still a giant fan of Tori. Although Tori’s hearing may not be as good as it used to be, she remains quite the performer.

Victoria - Dash

“She can still obviously do magnificent canine acting as long as you’re in vision – so you can give her hand signals,” explained Turner in a chat with RadioTimes.

What was Tori’s experience on “Victoria” like?

Jenna [Coleman] was great because she’s a dog lover,” added Turner. “She’s had dogs in the past, so she helped us out all the time with Tori.”

Apart from her reoccurring role as Dash, Tori has also appeared in the Keira Knightley film “The Duchess,” as well as “Midsomer Murders,” “The Dog Thrower” and various commercials.

When not busy prancing around a film or television set, Tori shares a home with Dodger, the dog who plays happy-go-lucky Buddy on “Doc Martin.” Behaviourally, according to Turner, Tori can be a bit of a playful diva around the house.

Victoria - Dash

“[Tori is] high maintenance, like any royal! Reported Turner. “When she comes home, she walks into the garden, onto the patio, stands still and looks at herself, [then] looks at me as if to say, ‘I’m the Queen’s dog, do something with me.”

This week on “Victoria” (Tuesday, May 16 at 8pm ET/5pm PT): The shock of Victoria’s pregnancy is compounded when she is forced to consider who will be regent. Whilst she chooses Albert, his desire for power remains unfulfilled and their fateful trip to the North exposes the latent tensions in their relationship.

-Adam Grant

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