25 Must-See Movies About A Dog (With Trailers)

Watching movies about a dog has always been a magical experience for me. It’s where my dog obsession truly began!

I have watched hours and hours of dog films over the years. And if you were to ask me which are the top dog movies to watch, here are the titles starring man’s best friend I’d happily recommend.

From Disney movies with dogs to movies about dogs on Netflix, this list of the best dog films will help you choose what to watch next.

RELATED: 12 Books About Dogs Every Pet Parent Should Own

25 Must-See Movies About A Dog

Whether you’re looking for funny cartoon movies with dogs, action-packed movies about dog sledding, or even a tear-jerking true story about a dog, this list really does have something for everyone.

For each dog movie we’ve added a handy link to a trailer, so you can have a sneak peak first before committing to the whole film. 

So grab some snacks, get snuggly with your pup, and enjoy this list of the best movies with dogs!

 

The best dog movies on Netflix

The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

Ever wondered what your dog really gets up to when you’re not home? Well, get ready for the LOLs because you’re about to find out!

Created by the makers of Despicable Me, this hilarious animated film about dogs follows the chaotic adventures of a group of lovable pets in New York city.

This family-friendly movie about dogs will charm dog lovers of all ages, and had us laughing all the way through.

With an impressive score of 71% on Rotten Tomatoes, you know this is one not to miss!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

 

Rescued by Ruby (2022)

If you’re anything like us and can’t resist wholesome movies about dogs with a positive message, and based on a true story –  then this is the film for you.

Rescued by Ruby is the heartwarming story of how a hyperactive shelter dog and a state trooper find hope and a second chance with each other.

The beautiful bond they form sees them work together to overcome incredible odds in their quest to join the K-9 Search & Rescue team.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

 

White Fang (2018)

Based on the renowned 1906 novel by Jack London, White Fang is a touching movie about a dog (actually a half-breed wolf) that is separated from his mother, and goes on to befriend a young man who cares for him. 

If you love animation movies with dogs, White Fang ticks all the boxes. It’s a classic tale filled with adventure, that delivers a powerful message about caring for animals and the bonds we share with them.

Have the tissues handy!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

 

Most famous dog movies

Turner & Hooch (1989)

I cannot tell you the number of times I watched this movie as a child, it’s an absolute classic for dog lovers young and old. 

A hilarious tale that proves opposites can attract, Turner & Hooch tells the heartwarming story of a neat-freak detective who reluctantly partners up with a big unruly dog with a drooling problem.

Released in 1989 (when all the best movies were made IMO) Turner & Hooch is among the best comedy dog movies of all time.

I can already hear Tom Hanks shrieking, “No Hooch!!”

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

K-9 (1989)

Another classic comedy movie about a canine-cop team (that harks back to my childhood days) Jim Belushi plays a stubborn, unconventional detective who’s new partner is Jerry Lee – an equally-stubborn but highly trained german shepherd.

Hilarious, action-packed chaos ensues as this unlikely crime-fighting duo begrudgingly work together to bust a huge drug syndicate. 

Jim Belushi’s reactions to Jerry Lee’s antics are simply iconic, he was made for this role. It’s definitely one of our all-time favourite dog movies!

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Benji (2018)

Undoubtedly one of the most classic dog movies of all time, Benji follows the heartwarming, action-packed story of a beloved street dog who sets out to rescue children from kidnappers.

Told through Benji’s eyes, this timeless film for dog lovers of all ages has adventure, adorable characters and family-friendly appeal.

The original Benji film was filmed in 1974, but you can also watch the modern reboot on Netflix.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

 

Funny dog movies 

Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008)

Drew Barrymore, George Lopez and Jamie Lee Curtis feature in this star-studded, laugh-out-loud funny movie for dog lovers of all ages. 

The story follows Chloe, a pampered Beverly Hills chihuahua who is dog-napped while on holiday in Mexico. Beneath the glitz and fluff are uplifting messages about gratitude and friendship.

And if you’re into high-end dog fashion, the outfits donned by the pampered pups in this film are worth the watch alone!

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Beethoven (1992)

Of all the funny dog movies, Beethoven is larger than life in more ways than one!

In this furry family comedy, a friendly and giant Saint Bernard called Beethoven joins a loving family – but the workaholic dad (played by the legendary Charles Grodin) isn’t so convinced.

Get ready for doggie antics, hilarious disasters and unlikely bonds to form as Beethoven slobbers his way into the hearts of his new family.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Best in Show (2000)

If like us you’ve always wanted to go behind-the-scenes of a dog show, you’ll think this hilarious and one-of-a-kind mockumentary is the next-best thing!

It’s the 125th annual Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show, and competition among the dog owners is fierce. Accompanying the impeccably groomed, exquisitely trained pups are their equally colourful owners, whose antics will make you laugh no matter how many times you watch this movie.

Fun fact: Most of the film was improvised! See if you can tell.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Sad dog movies

Marley & Me (2008)

Ask anyone about a sad dog movie they’ve seen, and I bet they’ll say Marley & Me. Don’t even get me started on how much I’ve cried over this film!

Married couple (Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson) adopt an adorable but cheeky Labrador named Marley. Pet parents everywhere will relate to all the hilarious puppy antics and heartfelt moments as Marley forges a forever bond with his humans.

This one is a real tear jerker, so have the tissues handy.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Hachiko / Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)

Warning: this is the saddest dog movie ever made. Yes, Hachiko is that Richard Gere movie about a dog people have warned you about. And rightly so – this film left us absolutely bawling! 

Hachikō is based on an incredible true story about a professor who stumbles across an akita puppy at a train station, and the unbreakable bond the two go on to form.

When the professor sadly doesn’t return home on the train one afternoon, what follows is a heartbreaking show of loyalty which continues for years…and ultimately becomes the stuff of legend among dog lovers worldwide.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

A Dog’s Purpose (2017)

‘The ones we rescue, rescue us’ is a message that dog lovers everywhere will relate to, and it’s the premise of this sad but uplifting family-friendly movie.

Over the years, Bailey forms an unbreakable bond with his human. As old age creeps in and his time sadly comes to an end, he makes a promise to his best friend.

When Bailey’s soul lives on through other dogs, it’ll make you reflect on the precious role dog’s play in our lives.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

 

Disney dog movies

Lady and The Tramp (1955)

A must-watch film for dog lovers young or old – and not just for the classic spaghetti kissing scene!

One of the most beloved dog movies of all time, this heartwarming tale sees two pups from different sides of the track find love. The adventures of Lady, a pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a happy-go-lucky street dog, captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere when the film was released back in 1955. 

And nearly 70 years later, they still do. It’s one of my all-time favourite dog movies.

WATCH ON DISNEY+

 

101 Dalmatians (1961)

Can 15 dalmatian puppies escape the clutches of the crazy Cruella DeVille, before she turns them into a lavish fur coat?

This is the central plot of the classic Disney dog movie and childhood favourite 101 Dalmatians, released back in 1961. 

This timeless film about dogs has everything; suspense, comedy, nostalgia…and let’s not forget 101 times the cuteness!

WATCH ON DISNEY+

 

The Fox & The Hound (1981)

An animated Disney classic, The Fox and the Hound follows the story of two unlikely friends; a red fox named Tod, and a hound dog named Copper.

While mostly a lighthearted film, sadly their innocent friendship is ultimately doomed as their natural instincts and social pressures begin to cause conflict.

A family-friendly adventure with some heart-wrenching moments and messages of friendship, prejudice and hope.

WATCH ON DISNEY+

 

Cat and dog movies

Homeward Bound (1993)

In our opinion, this is one of the best cat and dog movies of all time. You’ll laugh, cry, and shriek in suspense (don’t even get me started on Sassy’s waterfall incident!)

This nostalgic family-friendly film follows the story of Sassy, a Himalayan cat (who lives up to her name), Shadow, a wise golden retriever, and the affable Chance, an American bulldog.  

This adorable trio will lead you on an epic cross-country adventure to make their way home to their family.  The inspirational final scene is a classic moment in movie history. 

WATCH ON DISNEY+

 

Cats & Dogs (2001)

“Evil does NOT wear a bonnet!” is one of many quotables from this hilarious spy movie parody that plays on the age-old rivalry between cats and dogs.

It’s also a hint at the ridiculous hijinks that lie ahead, as the villainous Mr Tinkles (voiced brilliantly by Will & Grace star Sean Hayes) attempts to lead an army of cats in a high-tech, top-secret biological war against their canine arch rivals.

Funny, action-packed and heartwarming, it’s one of the best movies about dogs and cats ever made. I’ve watched this movie over 20 times and it still makes me laugh!

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Bolt (2008)

Is there anything more endearing than a dog who thinks he has superpowers? 

The star of a hit superhero TV series, Bolt grew up on the show’s set. Awkwardly, this makes him believe his superpowers are real. When he becomes separated from his owner, Penny, Bolt embarks on a journey in the real world to find her and in turn, finds himself.

Starring John Travolta and Miley Cyrus, this animated movie about a dog and his misplaced identity is sweet and engaging, and his friendship with the ever-sassy Mittens will make you giggle each time.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Snow dog movies

Snow Dogs (2002)

Snuggling up with Snow Dogs is a winter tradition for many dog lovers! 

This wacky comedy movie about dogs sees Ted, a dentist (Cuba Gooding Jr) journey from sunny Florida to faraway Alaska to claim his mother’s inheritance. 

But instead of receiving money, he inherits his mother’s cabin – and a pack of sled dogs. Clearly a fish out of water, Ted nevertheless gets caught up in the world of dog-sled racing and the upcoming Arctic Challenge dog sled race.

A light-hearted family movie with beautiful dogs and scenery to boot.

WATCH ON DISNEY+

 

Balto (1995)

If you love snow dog movies and a good under dog story, this animated adventure film is for you.

Based on true events, it follows the story of Balto; a half husky, half wolf who is sadly rejected by those around him.

That is until Balto seizes an opportunity to prove his worth…by rescuing a dog sled team stranded miles away in the perilous Arctic. On board is medicine needed to save the lives of the children in his small town from fatal diphtheria.

Balto’s heroic story is admired worldwide, and his statue still stands at New York’s Central Park. 

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Eight Below (2006)

This snow dog movie is a touching tale of survival, inspired by the bond between one man and his eight sled dogs.

Based on a true story, Jerry (Paul Walker) is forced to leave his expedition base – and his loyal huskies – in the Antarctic due to dangerous weather conditions. Can they survive on their own until he can make it back?

Dramatic and heart-wrenching, Eight Below is a must-see movie for dog owners everywhere no matter the season.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Christmas movies with dogs

An All Dogs Christmas Carol (1998)

This nostalgic Christmas movie about dogs is a heartwarming twist on the classic Dickens tale.

In this animated holiday adventure, all of the canine characters from the All Dogs Go to Heaven series are back with a festive mission: to teach one greedy pup the true meaning of Christmas. 

It’s a family-friendly film with a positive message that even the naughtiest of pups can find redemption and spread holiday cheer.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

The 12 Dogs of Christmas (2005)

If you like sentimental movies about dogs, Christmas and children, then you’ll love this family-friendly film.

Set in the 1930’s Depression-era, The 12 Dogs of Christmas follows Emma, a spirited teen who sets out to overturn an awful law that bans dogs.

By joining forces with the owner of a local dog shelter, Emma organises a spectacular holiday pageant – featuring a lovable cast of canines – to show the town the true meaning of Christmas.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure (2011)

Classic Beethoven fans will love this floofy and festive adventure film as the loveable St. Bernard embarks on a mission to save Christmas.

When an elf named Henry crash-lands in town with Santa’s magical toy bag, it’s up to Beethoven and his teenage friend, Mason, to retrieve the bag from greedy thieves and return it to Santa. 

With an all-star cast and plenty of laughs, this action-packed Christmas movie about dogs even sees Beethoven talking for the first time ever!

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

A Dog Named Christmas (2009)

From the Hallmark Hall of Fame collection comes this heartwarming Christmas film about none other than a dog named Christmas.

The story follows the McCray family who open their home to a lovable golden lab for the holiday season. Their developmentally challenged son forges a special bond with Christmas, not only proving his ability to care for a dog, but inspiring a wave of dog adoptions in their town. 

Even the skeptical father learns to embrace the newest member of their family, proving the power of a dog’s love and the true meaning of Christmas.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

 

Do you think this list features some of the best dog movies of all time? 

We hope your personal favourite made the list (or you found a new favourite dog film to love!)