From timeless classics that have been loved for generations to modern masterpieces, dog-themed movies have always been popular among movie-goers. They’re heartwarming, often humorous, and the perfect way to spend an evening with family or friends. The magic of these movies lies in their ability to make us feel a wide range of emotions, from tear-jerking moments of sorrow to joyous scenes of triumph. So, if you’re a movie enthusiast and a dog lover, this is the perfect list for you. Here are some of the best dog movies ever made that you should definitely add to your watch list.
1. “Old Yeller” (1957)
“Old Yeller” is a heartwarming tale about a brave and loyal dog named Yeller who forms a close bond with a family living in the countryside. The movie captures the essence of the genuine love and friendship between a dog and its family. You can stream the movie on Disney+, Amazon Prime, and Roku. Check out the RottenTomatoes reviews for more insights about the movie.
Key takeaway: This movie illustrates the strong bond that can develop between a dog and its family, and how a dog can bring warmth and happiness into our lives.
2. “Lassie Come Home” (1945)
“Lassie Come Home” is a timeless classic that tells the story of a beloved dog named Lassie. Set during the Depression era, the movie portrays the struggles of a family who are forced to sell their dog due to financial difficulties. The movie can be streamed on Vudu, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide a critical perspective on the film.
Key takeaway: This movie highlights the importance of loyalty and the enduring bond between a dog and its family, even in the face of adversity.
3. “Togo” (2019)
“Togo” is an inspiring true story about a dog sled team tasked with delivering medicine to a remote town in Alaska. The movie pays tribute to the courage and determination of Togo, the lead sled dog, and his handler Leonhard Seppala. The movie can be streamed exclusively on Disney+. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide further insights into the movie.
Key takeaway: The film showcases the extraordinary bravery and endurance of a dog in challenging circumstances, demonstrating the lengths a dog will go to for its handler.
4. “Megan Leavey” (2017)
“Megan Leavey” is based on the true story of a Marine corporal who forms a strong bond with a military dog named Rex. Despite Rex being initially considered too aggressive for military service, he becomes an invaluable partner to Megan. The film can be streamed on Vudu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Netflix. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide an in-depth look at the film.
Key takeaway: This movie shows us the transformative impact dogs can have on our lives and how they can help us overcome life’s challenges.
5. “Dog” (2022)
“Dog” is a buddy comedy about two former Army Rangers who are paired together for a road trip. As they journey along the Pacific Coast, they form a strong bond that helps them deal with the aftermath of war. The movie can be streamed on Vudu, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Apple TV, and Netflix. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide critical analysis of the film.
Key takeaway: The movie emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of dogs, especially for those dealing with trauma or emotional challenges.
6. “Hachiko: A Dog’s Story” (2009)
“Hachiko: A Dog’s Story” is a heartwarming film about an Akita dog named Hachiko who waits for his late owner at the train station every day for years. The movie is a testament to the loyalty and unwavering love of dogs. The movie can be found on Netflix, Prime Video, Vudu, and Apple TV. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide further insights into the movie.
Key takeaway: This movie is a beautiful reminder of the loyalty and unwavering love that dogs can offer, even in the face of loss.
7. “Red Dog: True Blue” (2016)
“Red Dog: True Blue” tells the story of a boy named Mick and his friendship with a dog named Blue. Set in the Australian outback, the movie is a timeless coming-of-age story about a boy and his dog. The movie can be streamed on Netflix and Amazon Prime. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide more information about the film.
Key takeaway: This movie showcases the strong bond between a boy and his dog, emphasizing the joy and companionship that a dog brings into our lives.
8. “Alpha” (2018)
“Alpha” is a movie that takes us back in time to explore the primal connection between a man and a wolf, the precursor to modern dogs. The movie is a beautiful depiction of friendship, trust, and survival. The movie can be streamed on Netflix, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide an in-depth look at the film.
Key takeaway: This movie provides a glimpse into the origin of the bond between humans and dogs, highlighting the deep connection and mutual trust that can exist between them.
9. “Benji” (2018)
“Benji” is a heartwarming movie about a stray dog who is adopted by a family and ends up saving the children from kidnappers. The film, a remake of the 1974 classic, captures the love and gratitude that a family can have for a dog. The film can be streamed on Netflix, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide more insights about the movie.
Key takeaway: This movie emphasizes the transformative power of love and care for a stray dog, showing how a dog can enrich our lives in unexpected ways.
10. “A Dog’s Purpose” (2017)
“A Dog’s Purpose” takes us on a philosophical journey through the eyes of a dog who is reincarnated several times. The movie explores deep themes about the purpose of life and the joy of companionship. The movie can be streamed on Vudu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Netflix. The RottenTomatoes reviews provide critical analysis of the film.
Key takeaway: This movie invites us to contemplate the purpose of our lives from a dog’s perspective, emphasizing the love and joy that dogs can bring to our lives.
In conclusion, these dog-themed movies paint a vivid picture of the unbreakable bond between humans and dogs. They remind us of the love, loyalty, and joy that our furry friends bring into our lives. So, whether you’re a dog owner or just a dog lover, these movies are a must-watch. They’re sure to fill your heart with warmth and make you appreciate your canine companions even more.