Television and radio presenter Will Best has shared insights into life with his Tibetan terrier, Sandwich, revealing both the challenges and joys of living with the dog. Best, known for hosting ITV’s Big Brother, participating in BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, and presenting Hits Radio’s weekday breakfast show, described the experience of raising Sandwich, whom he initially expected to be calm and easygoing.

Best, 41, said that when he and his girlfriend Tobi first brought Sandwich home, the puppy was far from the placid companion he had imagined. Contrary to his assumptions that a Tibetan terrier would exhibit the tranquility associated with Tibetan monks, the dog proved to be energetic and mischievous, having earned the nickname “land shark” for nipping and chewing. During puppyhood, Sandwich caused significant damage, including destroying a sofa beyond repair. Over time, however, the dog has grown more settled; now five and a half years old, Sandwich enjoys routines such as cuddling with Best before bedtime and getting into bed in the early mornings.

Best noted that maintaining Sandwich involves considerable time and expense, particularly for grooming and veterinary care. He highlighted recent problems caused by grass seeds during dry, hot summers, which led to a surgical procedure when one seed became embedded in the dog’s paw. Insurance premiums and regular trips to the vet constitute the primary ongoing costs of ownership.

Best described the division of responsibilities between himself and Tobi, noting that he handles Sandwich’s nighttime walks and the accompanying cleanup. The presenter recounted some of Sandwich’s more embarrassing behaviors, such as the dog urinating on the legs of other dog owners while Best was engaged in conversation.

The dog is allowed unrestricted access in Best’s home, including sleeping on the bed and furniture, a departure from Best’s upbringing where pets were not permitted upstairs or on sofas. For recreational walks, Best favours Victoria Park in east London, citing its woodland areas as ideal for Sandwich, though he admitted the terrier’s lack of athleticism makes it unlikely to catch any squirrels.

Best also reflected on his childhood pets, recalling a border terrier named Bramwell during his youth in Yorkshire and a rescue greyhound named Foxy. He expressed a long-term aspiration to run a donkey sanctuary, possibly in Norfolk, and mentioned an interest in keeping a smaller breed of house cow.

The decision to name the dog Sandwich came from Best’s partner, Tobi, who had long wished to give a dog that name. Best pointed out the occasional confusion this causes during outdoor activities, when calling Sandwich’s name sounds more like an instruction than a recall.

Despite the challenges, Best emphasized that raising a puppy requires patience and attention akin to raising children, as puppies demand constant care while learning to navigate their environment. Overall, Sandwich has become a cherished part of Best’s life, bringing companionship amid a busy schedule.