Dog In Popular Netflix Show Hails From Anne Arundel County

SEVERN, MD — Fans of a new Netflix miniseries may recognize the show's furry star.

The Capital Gazette first reported that "The Beast in Me" features an 8-year-old dog from Severn.

The thrilling show, released Nov. 13, spotlights author Aggie Wiggs, played by Claire Danes, who is grieving her son's death and digging for the truth about her new neighbor. The mysterious newcomer, real estate mogul Nile Jarvis, played by Matthew Rhys, was once the top suspect in his wife's disappearance.

The tension leaves viewers worrying about the safety of Wiggs' dog, named Steve.

In real life, Steve is a female schnoodle named Lemon.

Lemon's owner is Samantha Miyamoto, a dog trainer who opened Leash Free Living in 2012. The business has locations in Annapolis and Millersville. Miyamoto started training dogs in 2008 after her first dog was killed by a larger dog.

"Lemon-as-Steve brings a grounding warmth to a show that’s otherwise packed with tension, twists, and dark emotional turns," Leash Free Living said in a blog post. "Whether he’s sitting stoically in a doorway or offering that 'I know everything' dog stare, he adds heart and levity exactly when the audience needs it most."

Miyamoto told the Capital Gazette she met Lemon, then rambunctious, when the pup was about 1 and started lessons. Lemon's owner couldn't keep her, so Miyamoto told the newspaper she fostered the dog and eventually decided to adopt her.

Lemon went on to win several companion, rally and obedience awards with Miyamoto.

"I’m really proud of her; she’s come really far," Miyamoto told the Capital Gazette, adding that filming took place from last fall through this January. "Doing the competition training really gave her a lot of work ethic and perseverance that she could hang in there and do what was asked, even if she was getting a little tired, right, or worn down."

Miyamoto told the Capital Gazette she saw a casting call for a small poodle who could bark on command. She told the paper she taught Lemon how to do so over a weekend and sent in videos, ultimately landing her the role.

The show is set on Long Island in the idyllic coastal town of Oyster Bay. The eight-episode drama, however, was filmed in New Jersey, Entertainment Weekly reported.

"Fans are already calling Steve one of the most memorable TV dogs in recent years—and honestly? They’re not wrong," Leash Free Living wrote. "Lemon’s natural charm shines through the screen, giving The Beast in Me a touch of softness that leaves viewers wanting more. So here’s to Steve (aka Lemon) proving once again that sometimes the best part of a thriller is the dog who quietly steals the whole show."

Learn more about Lemon's training and filming in the Capital Gazette's full article.