What is Dogtanian?

Dogtanian and the Three Muskehounds was a 26-part animated series made in 1981 by the South African company BRB Internacional. It was set in early 17th-Century France and based on the famous novel by Alexandre Dumas, written in 1844. But the adaption of the story had one very notable difference - the cast were all animals.

The programme was originally made in Spanish (known there as D'Artacan y los tres Mosqueperros), and was dubbed into English later. The dubbing was not entirely successful - it is obvious to spot at some points - but this does not diminish the enjoyment of what was a very entertaining series.

After a very bland first episode in the Gascony countryside, the action quickly switches to Paris, where our hero Dogtanian meets his new-found love, the beauiful Juliette. He joins up with the Three Musketeers, Porthos, Athos and Aramis - he aspires to joining their ranks. The Musketeers defend the King of France - Louis XIII, and his Queen, Anne of Austria. They fight under the command of the Captain of the Musketeers, Monsieur Tréville. Dogtanian also has the help of his horse Sandy, his valet Planchet, and Monsieur Pip, a mouse. Together, they battle to foil the plans of the scheming Cardinal Richelieu - the power behind the throne, and his associates - the beguiling Milady, the haughty Count Rochefort and the forever-failing Captain Widdemer.

What other shows have BRB done?

BRB has been responsible for over 20 serialized animated shows. Among its more celebrated titles include the adaption of Jules Verne's Around the world in 80 days (again with the animal theme), and The Wisdom of the Gnomes. Both Dogtanian and Around the world were made into sequels, but seem to have been received less favourably.