What happened to Paul O’Grady’s dog Buster?

BELOVED TV personality Paul O’Grady was known for his love of animals, particularly his dog Buster.

The late star would famously take his 14-year-old companion on the road with him when touring.

What happened to Paul O'Grady's dog Buster?

Buster was a rescue dog who sadly died in November 2009.

The animal had long been a source of comfort for the late TV personality, particularly after his partner Brendan Murphy died of cancer in 2005.

Buster was well-known and popular with Paul's fans and used to appear on many of his TV shows.

He had been honoured with the title of 'best dog in TV' by the TV Times.

After being diagnosed with cancer, his TV appearances slowly dwindled.

Buster reportedly appeared to be in a lot of pain and vets recommended he was put down.

A spokeswoman said at the time: "Paul is absolutely devastated. It all happened suddenly. Buster had been suffering and in a lot of pain.

"Putting him down was the kind thing to do."

What breed was Buster?

Buster was a Shih Tzu-Bishon Frise cross.

Known as the Shichon, the breed is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise. 

They have a unique, teddy bear-like appearance.

What did Paul O'Grady say about Buster?

Following his death, Paul took to Instagram to share an adorable snap of the beloved dog.

He said: "Buster always loved Halloween. Here he is after a long night at the Canine Coven."

Paul dedicated the second volume of his autobiography to the dog, describing him as "The greatest canine star since Lassie."

Buster was so popular with viewers that a mini nodding version of the pooch was created as a prize given away to viewers during the show.

His appearances would decline in the build-up to his death, due to his deteriorating health.

Buster would rotate shows with Olga, who sadly passed away in 2018.

How many dogs did Paul O'Grady have?

During his life, Paul welcomed a number of rescue dogs into his home over the years.

He had five pooches living with him and his husband Andre Portasio.

The dogs are called Nancy, Arfur, Conchita, Eddie, and Sausage.

Upon Paul's unexpected death on March 28, 2023, it was reported that he was "surrounded by his beloved dogs" and "full of life" the day before his passing.