Best Dog Movies of All Time (With Trailers)
Editor's Picks
Written by
Shell & Katy Updated 2 August 2026 · 20 Min Read
Shell & Katy are two style-savvy dog mums celebrating the best in pet-friendly living. A pet photographer and dog lifestyle writer, together they share trending pet products, recipes, inspiration and expert tips with discerning dog lovers around the world.
Quick answer: The top dog movies of all time include Marley & Me for the ultimate cry, Hachi: A Dog's Tale for the most heartbreaking true story, Best in Show for laugh-out-loud comedy, and Eight Below for edge-of-your-seat adventure. For the newest release, Dog Man (2025) is an animated hit the whole family will love.
As a child, watching movies about a dog was always a magical experience for me. It's where my love of dogs truly began! I have seen countless dog films over the years, and if you were to ask me which are the top titles to watch, these are the ones I'd happily recommend.
From adventure-filled tales to tearjerkers, Disney classics to the films currently streaming on Netflix, this list starring man's best friend will help you sniff out what to watch next. Whether you're after funny cartoon movies with dogs, action-packed stories about dog sledding, or a sad true story that will wreck you in the best way, there is something here for everyone.
We've added links to trailers too, so you can have a sneak peek before committing to the whole film. So grab some snacks, get snuggly with your pup, set out their favorite dog toys, and enjoy.
New Dog Movies 2026
Dog Man (2025)
If you haven't introduced your family to Dog Man yet, move it straight to the top of the watch list. Based on Dav Pilkey's bestselling graphic novel series, this DreamWorks film follows a loyal police dog and his officer owner who are fused together after a life-saving surgery, creating the world's most enthusiastic crime-fighter. With Pete Davidson voicing the villain Petey the Cat and Ricky Gervais lending his voice to a very suspicious fish, the humor is genuinely clever for adults while remaining completely joyful for kids. It earned $146 million worldwide and is now one of the most-loved animated films about dogs of this decade.
TRAILER: Dog Man (2025) Official Trailer
Arthur The King (2024)
Get the tissues ready for Arthur the King. Starring Mark Wahlberg, this inspiring true story follows an adventure racer who unexpectedly adopts a scrappy stray dog named Arthur during a gruelling endurance race. As the duo faces challenges together, their unshakeable bond reminds us why dogs are the ultimate teammates.
TRAILER: Arthur the King (2024)
Dog Gone (2023)
A story that's equal parts adventure and heart, Dog Gone follows a young man and his father as they embark on a frantic search along the Appalachian Trail for their missing pup. With themes of determination, family, and the unbreakable bond with our dogs, this film is a heartfelt tribute to canine loyalty.
TRAILER: Dog Gone (2023)
Strays (2023)
This laugh-out-loud comedy flips the usual heartwarming trope on its head! Strays follows a scrappy little Border Terrier named Reggie (voiced by Will Ferrell) who teams up with a group of sassy, street-smart stray dogs to get revenge on his neglectful owner. Packed with hilarious antics, unexpected friendships, and a whole lot of canine chaos, this one is definitely for the grown-ups who love dogs with a side of edgy humor.
TRAILER: Strays (2023)
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 you're about to find out! Created by the makers of Despicable Me, this hilarious animated film follows the chaotic adventures of a group of lovable pets in New York City. It 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!
TRAILER: The Secret Life Of Pets
Rescued by Ruby (2022)
If you're anything like us and can't resist wholesome stories with a positive message, and based on real events, 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.
TRAILER: Rescued By Ruby
White Fang (2018)
Based on the renowned 1906 novel by Jack London, White Fang is a touching story 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. 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!
TRAILER: White Fang
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 comedies of the genre. I can already hear Tom Hanks shrieking, "No Hooch!!"
TRAILER: Turner & Hooch
K-9 (1989)
Another classic comedy 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 favourites!
TRAILER: K-9 Official Trailer
Benji (2018)
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic titles in the genre, 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.
TRAILER: Benji Official Trailer
Funny Dog Movies
Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008)
Drew Barrymore, George Lopez and Jamie Lee Curtis feature in this star-studded, laugh-out-loud comedy 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 are worth the watch alone!
TRAILER: Beverly Hills Chihuahua
Beethoven (1992)
Of all the comedies on this list, Beethoven is larger than life in more ways than one! In this furry family romp, 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.
TRAILER: Beethoven - Official Trailer
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 owners is fierce. Accompanying the impeccably groomed, exquisitely trained pups are their equally colourful humans, whose antics will make you laugh no matter how many times you rewatch.
Fun fact: Most of the film was improvised! See if you can tell.
TRAILER: Best in Show - Official Trailer
Sad Dog Movies
Before you press play on any of these, keep our collection of pet loss quotes nearby. You're going to need them.
The Friend (2025)
This quietly devastating film deserves far more attention than it received at the box office. Based on Sigrid Nunez's National Book Award-winning novel, The Friend stars Naomi Watts as Iris, a writer whose solitary New York life is upended when her beloved mentor (played by a warm and wry Bill Murray) leaves her his 150-pound Great Dane named Apollo. Played with scene-stealing majesty by a real Great Dane named Bing, Apollo immediately destroys Iris's furniture, commandeers her bed, and draws eviction notices from her landlord. What unfolds is a tender, beautifully observed portrait of grief, companionship, and what it means to be transformed by a dog. If you've ever been saved by one, this will hit you somewhere deep.
TRAILER: The Friend (2025) Official Trailer
Marley & Me (2008)
Ask anyone about the saddest film they've seen in this genre, and I bet they'll say Marley & Me. Don't even get me started on how much I've cried over this one! 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.
TRAILER: Marley & Me
Hachiko / Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009)
Warning: this is the saddest film on the entire list. Yes, Hachiko is that Richard Gere movie people have warned you about. And rightly so, it left us absolutely bawling! Hachiko 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 becomes the stuff of legend worldwide.
TRAILER: Hachi: A Dog's Tale - Official Trailer
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 film. 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 our pups play in our lives.
TRAILER: A Dog's Purpose Official Trailer
Disney Dog Movies
Lady and The Tramp (1955)
A must-watch for dog lovers young or old, and not just for the classic spaghetti kissing scene! One of the most beloved animated films ever made, 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 hearts everywhere when the film was released back in 1955. And nearly 70 years later, they still do. It's one of my all-time favourites.
TRAILER: Lady and The Tramp
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 Disney classic and childhood favourite 101 Dalmatians, released back in 1961. This timeless film has everything: suspense, comedy, nostalgia, and let's not forget 101 times the cuteness!
TRAILER: 101 Dalmatians Official Trailer
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 lighthearted, 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.
TRAILER: The Fox and the Hound
Animated Dog Movies
If you love cartoon dogs as much as we do, these two belong on your list alongside the Disney picks above.
All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989)
Don Bluth's animated cult classic is far darker and stranger than most people remember, which is exactly why it has endured. Charlie, a rascally German Shepherd voiced by Burt Reynolds, is a casino-owning con dog who is murdered by his business partner, sneaks back to earth from heaven, and unexpectedly finds himself protecting an orphaned little girl who can talk to animals. It is funny, it is genuinely emotional, and the final scene has undone generations of dog lovers. If you grew up in the late eighties or nineties, this is pure nostalgia in film form.
TRAILER: All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989) Official Trailer
Isle of Dogs (2018)
Wes Anderson's gorgeous stop-motion film is unlike anything else in this genre. Set in a near-future Japan where all dogs have been banished to a garbage island after an outbreak of canine flu, it follows a young boy who flies there alone to find his lost pup, and the ragtag pack of dogs who help him. The voice cast is extraordinary (Bryan Cranston, Scarlett Johansson, Jeff Goldblum, Tilda Swinton) and every single frame is a work of art. It is more grown-up than the usual animated fare and does touch on some darker themes, so preview it before a family movie night with little ones.
TRAILER: Isle of Dogs (2018) Trailer
Dog Movies for Kids
Looking for something the whole family can settle in with? These two are gentle, warm-hearted and very easy to love.
Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021)
Based on the beloved children's books, Clifford the Big Red Dog follows middle-schooler Emily Elizabeth, who is gifted a tiny red puppy by a magical animal rescuer (John Cleese, having an absolute ball) and wakes up the next morning to find him ten feet tall. Cue chaos across New York City as Emily and her well-meaning uncle try to hide a giant dog from a biotech company that wants to study him. It is silly, sweet and genuinely funny, with a lovely message about accepting what makes you different. A wonderful pick for younger kids.
TRAILER: Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021) Official Trailer
Because of Winn-Dixie (2005)
One of the most quietly lovely family films ever made about a dog, and criminally overlooked. Based on Kate DiCamillo's award-winning novel, it follows ten-year-old Opal, who has just moved to a small Florida town with her preacher father, and the scruffy stray she finds in a supermarket and names Winn-Dixie. Through the dog, Opal slowly draws together a group of lonely, overlooked townspeople into something that looks a lot like a family. Gentle, warm and full of heart, with a wonderful cast including Jeff Daniels and Cicely Tyson. Perfect for a slow Sunday afternoon with the kids.
TRAILER: Because of Winn-Dixie (2005) Official Trailer
Cat and Dog Movies
Flow (2024)
Technically, Flow is a cat film. But it is also one of the most extraordinary pieces of animation ever made, it features a gentle dog as a central character in the ensemble, and if you love animals with your whole heart, it belongs here. This breathtaking Latvian film tells the story of a solitary cat who survives a great flood by finding refuge on a boat with a dog, a cheerful capybara, a lemur, and a secretarybird. Made entirely with open-source software on a budget of less than $4 million, Flow stunned the world by winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature at the 2025 Oscars, beating both Disney and DreamWorks. It's wordless, it's gorgeous, and by the end it will have you in tears.
TRAILER: Flow (2024) Official Trailer
Homeward Bound (1993)
In our opinion, this is one of the best cat and dog films 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 adventure follows 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 journey to make their way home to their family. The final scene is a classic moment in movie history.
TRAILER: Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
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. I've watched this over 20 times and it still makes me cackle.
TRAILER: Cats & Dogs - Official Trailer
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 powers 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 story of misplaced identity is sweet and engaging, and his friendship with the ever-sassy Mittens will make you giggle every time.
TRAILER: Bolt Trailer
Sled Dog and Snow Dog Movies
Togo (2019)
Most people know Balto's name. Far fewer know Togo's, and that is the quiet heartbreak at the center of this beautiful film. Togo tells the untold story of Leonhard Seppala (Willem Dafoe) and his Siberian Husky, who ran the longest and most dangerous leg of the 1925 relay to deliver lifesaving medicine to a diphtheria-stricken Alaska. Togo was considered too small and too mischievous to ever lead a team, and yet he became one of the greatest sled dogs in history. Willem Dafoe is magnificent, the Alaskan landscapes are stunning, and the bond between man and dog is the kind that has you holding your own pup a little tighter by the end. Criminally underrated.
TRAILER: Togo (2019) Official Trailer
Snow Dogs (2002)
Snuggling up with Snow Dogs is a winter tradition for many dog lovers! This wacky comedy 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 race. A light-hearted family film with beautiful dogs and scenery to boot.
TRAILER: Snow Dogs (2002) Trailer
Balto (1995)
If you love a snowy setting and a good underdog story, this animated adventure is for you. Based on true events, it follows 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. Balto's heroic story is admired worldwide, and his statue still stands at New York's Central Park.
TRAILER: Balto Official Trailer
Eight Below (2006)
This one 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 for dog owners everywhere no matter the season.
TRAILER: Eight Below Official Trailer
Christmas Movies With Dogs
Happy Howlidays (2024)
What's better than Christmas and dogs? Happy Howlidays delivers both in this cozy Hallmark rom-com that's an easy, feel-good watch. A dog shelter owner and a webpage editor team up to save a struggling shelter, and along the way, sparks (and tails) start flying. It's festive, fun, and a little on the cheesy side, but aren't most Christmas movies?
WATCH TRAILER: Happy Howlidays (2024)
An All Dogs Christmas Carol (1998)
This nostalgic holiday pick is a heartwarming twist on the classic Dickens tale. In this animated 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 family-friendly with a positive message that even the naughtiest of pups can find redemption and spread holiday cheer.
TRAILER: An All Dogs Christmas Carol
The 12 Dogs of Christmas (2005)
If you like sentimental stories about dogs, Christmas and children, then you'll love this family-friendly film. Set in the 1930s 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 shelter, Emma organises a spectacular holiday pageant featuring a lovable cast of canines to show the town the true meaning of Christmas.
TRAILER: The 12 Dogs of Christmas
Beethoven's Christmas Adventure (2011)
Classic Beethoven fans will love this floofy and festive adventure 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 festive romp even sees Beethoven talking for the first time ever!
TRAILER: Beethoven's Christmas Adventure
A Dog Named Christmas (2009)
From the Hallmark Hall of Fame collection comes this heartwarming 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.
TRAILER: A Dog Named Christmas Movie
Dog Movies Based on a True Story
Some of the most powerful films on this list actually happened. If a real-life story is what you're after, here's where to start.
| Film | Year | The real story | Tissue rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hachi: A Dog's Tale | 2009 | An Akita in Japan who waited at his owner's train station for nearly ten years | Extreme |
| Togo | 2019 | The sled dog who ran the longest leg of the 1925 Alaska serum run | High |
| Eight Below | 2006 | Sled dogs left behind at an Antarctic research base | High |
| Arthur the King | 2024 | A stray who followed an endurance racing team across the jungle | Moderate |
| Rescued by Ruby | 2022 | A shelter dog who became a K-9 search and rescue officer | Low, mostly joyful |
| Balto | 1995 | The lead dog on the final leg of the same 1925 serum run | Moderate |
Do you think this list features the very best of the genre? We hope your personal favourite made the cut, or that you've found a new one to love. For more ways to celebrate the dogs who have our whole hearts, take a look at our favorite dog love quotes to share with fellow dog parents.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
01 What is the saddest dog movie of all time?
Most dog lovers agree Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009) takes that title. Based on the true story of a Japanese Akita who waited at his owner's train station for nearly ten years after his death, it is a devastating tribute to canine loyalty.
02 What are the best dog movies on Netflix right now?
Our top Netflix picks are Dog Gone (2023), a true story about a frantic search along the Appalachian Trail, Rescued by Ruby (2022), a feel-good tale of a shelter dog turned K-9 officer, and A Dog's Purpose (2017).
03 Are there any good new dog movies?
Yes. Dog Man (2025) from DreamWorks is a funny, heartfelt animated hit that grossed $146 million worldwide. The Friend (2025) is a moving drama starring Naomi Watts and a scene-stealing Great Dane named Apollo.
04 What is the funniest dog movie?
Best in Show (2000) takes the crown. This near-entirely improvised mockumentary about a kennel club competition gets funnier every rewatch. For families, try Beethoven (1992). For grown-ups who like edgier humor, Strays (2023).
05 What are the best animated dog movies for kids?
Lady and the Tramp (1955) and 101 Dalmatians (1961) are the timeless Disney picks. For something newer, Dog Man (2025) and The Secret Life of Pets (2016) are both brilliant. Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021) suits younger viewers beautifully.
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