Monty Don’s Dogs Through the Years: Heartfelt Tribute to Monty Don’s Beloved Dogs & A Warm Welcome to His Newest Companion

Monty Don, the beloved British gardener and host of Gardeners’ World, has shared his life and garden with several loyal dogs over the years. His dogs have become as famous as he is, often appearing alongside him on TV and in books. Below is a detailed look at each of his dogs, their personalities, and their impact on Monty’s life.

1. Nigel (Golden Retriever, 2008–2020)

• Breed: Golden Retriever
• Born: 2008
• Died: May 4, 2020 (aged 12)
• Cause of Death: Brain tumor

Nigel was undoubtedly Monty Don’s most famous and beloved dog. He became a Gardeners’ World staple, known for his calm and affectionate nature. Nigel was always seen strolling alongside Monty in the garden, chasing tennis balls, or simply lounging as Monty spoke to the camera.

Monty often referred to Nigel as his best friend. He was a comforting presence during difficult times, including Monty’s struggles with depression. Nigel’s popularity led to Monty writing the book Nigel: My Family and Other Dogs, where he shared stories about Nigel and his other pets.

In early 2020, Nigel suffered from seizures due to a brain tumor. Despite treatment, he passed away in May 2020. Monty shared the heartbreaking news with fans, describing Nigel as “a much-loved friend who joyously shared our lives for the past 12 years.”

2. Nellie (Golden Retriever, 2016–2023)

• Breed: Golden Retriever
• Born: 2016
• Died: October 21, 2023 (aged 7)
• Cause of Death: Cancer

Nellie, affectionately called Nell, was introduced in 2016 as Nigel’s companion. She had a playful and inquisitive personality but was known to be more independent than Nigel. While Nigel was relaxed and patient, Nell was more energetic and mischievous.

Nellie loved digging in the garden, much to Monty’s occasional frustration, and enjoyed running through flower beds. After Nigel’s passing, Nellie took center stage on Gardeners’ World.

In August 2023, Monty revealed that Nell had developed a tumor and had undergone surgery. However, despite treatment, she succumbed to cancer in October 2023. Monty shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, saying, “I held her in my arms as she went to sleep.”

4. Red (Golden Retriever, Pre-2008)

• Breed: Golden Retriever
• Time with Monty: Before Nigel

Before Nigel, Monty had a Golden Retriever named Red. Not much is known about Red, as Monty has only mentioned him briefly in interviews and writing. However, it’s clear that Red was a beloved pet and a predecessor to Nigel.

5. Barry (Golden Retriever, Pre-2008)

• Breed: Golden Retriever
• Time with Monty: Before Nigel

Like Red, Barry was another Golden Retriever Monty owned before Nigel. There are few public details about Barry, but Monty has acknowledged having multiple retrievers before Nigel came into his life.

6. Border Collies (Names Unknown, Before the 1990s)

• Breed: Border Collies
• Time with Monty: Early years

Monty Don has spoken about owning Border Collies in his earlier years before his Golden Retriever companions. These dogs were likely part of his farming lifestyle, as Border Collies are known for their intelligence and work ethic.

🐾 Present Dogs:

1. Patti (Yorkshire Terrier, Born 2019)

• Breed: Yorkshire Terrier
• Born: 2019
• Current Age: 5 years (as of 2024)

Patti is Monty Don’s adorable Yorkshire Terrier, a breed known for its small size, intelligence, and lively personality. Unlike Monty’s previous Golden Retrievers, who were large and often seen running through the garden, Patti is much smaller but just as beloved.

She became part of Monty’s family in 2019, and while she doesn’t often appear on Gardeners’ World, she plays a significant role in his personal life. Patti is a stark contrast to the Golden Retrievers Monty has had over the years, but her charm and energy have made her a cherished companion.

2. Ned (Golden Retriever, Born 2023)

• Breed: Golden Retriever
• Born: 2023
• Current Age: 1 year (as of 2024)

After Nellie’s passing in October 2023, Monty introduced a new Golden Retriever puppy named Ned in November 2023. Monty shared the news with fans, posting photos of the playful young pup.

Ned has big shoes to fill, following in the footsteps of Nigel and Nellie. As a young and energetic pup, he is still growing into his role as Monty’s gardening companion. Fans of Gardeners’ World eagerly look forward to seeing him on-screen in the years to come.

Speaking about his dogs on his website, Monty writes:

“I have lived with dogs all my life and so it is natural to me that wherever I am in the garden I should be accompanied by a dog or two. It is their garden as much as mine or any other members of the family.

“Something that I take for granted is that, by and large, they do absolutely no damage and respect the garden completely. They rarely dig holes or crash through the flower beds. They do treat the long paths as bowling alleys down which they career in chase of the ball that we are obliged to throw, but it is harmless enough.”