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13 Great Dog Movies Everyone Needs To Watch

Written by: Scott H
Scott Haiduc is the Director of Publishing for iHeartDogs, iHeartCats and The Hero Company. When not working, Scott spends his time on the farm, taking care of his animals and crops.Read more
| Published on October 1, 2013

It’s always tough to pick a good movie to watch at home, because there are so many great options! But if you love movies and dogs, chances are you’ll enjoy a good dog flick. Some dog movies are lighthearted and funny while others are sure to make you cry. Either way, it’s fun to watch films that have adorable four-legged family members in them. After all, dogs are such a big part of our lives.

Below we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorites! What else can you think of?

#1 – The Adventures of Milo and Otis

Is there a movie that’s cuter than this? Originally a Japanese film, Milo and Otis was turned over to America to bring the fun adventures of a little kitten and a silly Pug into our hearts. It’s one of the most unlikely friendships, but still incredibly charming.

Milo and Otis
Image: Fuji Television Network

#2 – Turner & Hooch

How many of us have turned anti-dog people into dog people? That’s certainly what Hooch did.  Even our craziest dogs leave us with the fondest memories, and Hooch turned out to be quite beneficial after all!

Turner and Hooch
Image: Touchstone Pictures

#3 – Old Yeller

It’s probably one of the saddest dog movies ever (or even just one of the saddest movies all around). Old Yeller is a story of a dog who loves and protects his people but is overcome by illness and can no longer help himself. This heartbreaking coming-of-age tale encompasses all parts of dog ownership, and life in general.

Old Yeller dog movies
Image: Walt Disney Company

#4 – Lassie

Lassie is probably the dog every other dog would look up to, if they watched movies. Lassie is pretty much the perfect dog and a classic story. After the family rescues Lassie, she decides to help her new humans in every way possible. You can’t help but love her.

Lassie dog movies
Image: Broadway Pictures

#5 – Lady and the Tramp

Perhaps one of Disney’s best films, Lady and the Tramp does a fantastic job at portraying the goodness of dogs – both loved and stray – and their importance in our lives. The 2019 live action version even featured an adoptable shelter dog as Tramp.

Lady and the Tramp
Image: Walt Disney Animation Studios

#6 – Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

This is another beautiful story about love and adventure. It really makes you wonder about the bond pets have with each other, and more importantly, us. Would your dogs risk as much as these pups to find their way back home to you?

Homeward Bound Incredibly Journey
Image: Touchwood Pacific Partners

#7 – A Dog’s Purpose

Dogs dying in movies is heartbreaking, but A Dog’s Purpose shows us that our dogs never really leave us. Bailey the dog goes through many lives, trying to find out what his purpose is. And of course, his mind always wanders back to his favorite human.

A Dog's Purpose
Image: Dreamworks Pictures

#8 – Best in Show

Easily one of the best dog comedies, Best in Show really captures what goes on in some of our “crazy dog people” lives! Everyone that has shown dogs in any venue knows that this movie is much more documentary than fiction!

Best in Show
Image: Castle Rock Entertainment

#9 – All Dogs Go to Heaven

This is another classic! All Dogs Go to Heaven is an oldie but goodie, and a wonderful story about the goodness of heart. Anyone who has befriended a dog in real life knows that all dogs really do deserve to go to heaven.

All Dogs go to Heaven
Image: Goldcrest Films International

#10 – Beethoven

It’s always an adventure with a dog around, but it’s especially exciting with a giant one! Beethoven the Saint Bernard might get in trouble at times, but his family adores him with all their hearts.

Beethoven the dog
Image: Universal Pictures

#11 – The Secret Life of Pets

Have you ever wondered what your dog does when you’re gone at work all day? The Secret Life of Pets gives you a glimpse of the adventures your pets go on when you’re not around. Hopefully, your dogs are a little more careful though.

The Secret Life of Pets
Image: Universal Pictures

#12 – The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain follows the life of a race-car driver, but from the dog’s perspective. Enzo the dog might not have the most responsible dog dad in the world, but he knows that his dad cares about him and his human family more than anything. He’s a dog who’s wise beyond his years.

The art of racing in the rain
Image: Fox 2000 Pictures

#13 – Marley & Me

The story of a troublesome new puppy is one that many of us can relate to. Dogs take time to adjust to a new home, and while they might anger us at times, they ultimately bring families together. And that’s exactly what Marley the lovable Lab does for his humans.

Marley and Me dog movies
Image: Fox 2000 Pictures

Since dogs are such a big part of our lives, of course we want to see them on the big screen! So, if you’re struggling to decide what to watch, consider one of these brilliant canine films. They’ll teach you to appreciate your furry friend even more than you already do.

Featured Image: Touchwood Pacific Partners

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