What Canadian police procedural drama features detective Charlie Hudson and his German Shepherd police dog Rex, solving crimes in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador?

The Canadian police procedural drama that features Detective Charlie Hudson and his German Shepherd police dog Rex, solving crimes in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, is indeed "Hudson & Rex (Review)." This popular series, which premiered on Citytv in March 2019, is an adaptation of the long-running Austrian-Italian drama "Kommissar Rex" (also known as "Inspector Rex"). The show quickly became a hit, captivating audiences with its unique blend of crime-solving action and the charismatic partnership between its human and canine leads.

The series is set and filmed entirely in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, with its scenic harbors, historic sites, and rugged landscapes playing a significant role in the show's visual storytelling. John Reardon stars as Detective Charlie Hudson, a major crimes detective who grew up reading mystery novels and always wanted to be a police detective. His partner, Rex, a highly trained German Shepherd, is portrayed by the canine actor Diesel vom Burgimwald and several of his relatives, who stepped into the role after Diesel's passing in 2024. Rex, originally part of the K9 unit, was partnered with Hudson after his previous human partner was killed in the line of duty.

The bond between Detective Hudson and Rex is central to the show's appeal. Rex's exceptional senses of hearing and smell are instrumental in tracking suspects and discovering crucial evidence, from blood and drugs to other materials. Beyond his impressive police work, Rex also provides comfort to those in distress and helps to subdue suspects. The duo receives support from a dedicated team including Superintendent Joseph Donovan, Forensics Chief Sarah Truong, and IT specialist Jesse Mills, who assist in gathering and interpreting evidence. This engaging series highlights themes of loyalty, redemption, and community, all while showcasing Rex's intelligence and the beautiful backdrop of Newfoundland.