The BBC has defended Pooch Perfect, the dog grooming reality show which sees a series of professional pet stylists competing in a series of themed challenges which sees the transformation of beloved pets.
However a number of viewers have raised concerns about the content of the show, which some concerned that the nature of dyeing fur and dressing up dogs "sets a bad example."
The BBC's Executive Complaints Unit has since responded to the complaints, issuing a statement on Wednesday.
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"During the production process, the producers consulted with both the RSPCA and British Veterinary Association (BVA) to ensure best practise as regards [to] animal welfare," the statement began.
"Both organisations were given details of the proposed grooming challenges and both were happy to recommend individuals who then became part of the production team.
"At no point did the animal welfare team feel there was any risk to the dogs' welfare and all the dogs were monitored throughout to ensure they were happy, did not show signs of stress, that they had sufficient food and water and had adequate rest away from the studio environment."
The statement then went on to discuss last week's programme, which saw some of the contestants use chalk in order to colour the dog's furs.
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"Of the twenty challenges across the series, four made use of some form of limited temporary colour," the ECU continued.
"Any use of colour was strictly controlled and only used to highlight the groom and any use of colour was explained and contextualised for each groom. All colour was temporary, animal safe and washed out almost immediately depending on the dog's coat.
"Throughout Pooch Perfect, it is made clear that the contestants are professional groomers and that dog owners should not try these creative grooms at home.
"Every precaution was taken throughout filming to ensure each individual dog's welfare and the production team firmly believes every dog was well treated and that no dog was harmed physically or mentally by the process."
While the BBC maintain that safety is paramount for dogs that participated in Pooch Perfect, some animal welfare groups have raised concerns over how audiences may perceive pet "makeover" shows.
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Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs at national pet charity Blue Cross, told Tyla: "The use of hair dyes to colour dogs fur is a trend that Blue Cross finds extremely worrying. It suggests that it is okay to treat dogs as fashion accessories and fails to recognise that they are sentient animals with clear welfare needs.
"Whist some dyes may be marketed as pet friendly, we would always advise against using them. There are many things you can do to treat your pet and dying their fur is not one of them."
Pooch Perfect, based on an Australian show of the same name, is hosted by Sheridan Smith and canine companion Stanley.
Speaking about landing her first prime-time presenting gig, Sheridan explained: "I am a huge dog lover and the time just seemed right, I had just had my son, Billy, so it was an absolute honour to be asked.
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"Being the host I got to know each contestant really well, I am a people person and I just love getting to know people. I became really attached and I wanted them all to win! I hated even just announcing who was going home each week, so I was thankful it wasn't my job to judge them."
Pooch Perfect continues on Thursday night at 8pm on BBC One.
Featured Image Credit: BBCTopics: Dog, Sheridan Smith, Pets, TV News, TV & Film, TV Entertainment, Animals, Dogs