Dogs have a way of affecting us through the silver screen that even the most prestigious actors can't manage. With a smiley, slobbery face and a can-do attitude, dogs in film provide comic relief, inspire adventure, and offer comfort in times of hardship — both to the characters on the screen and, by extension, to those of us watching from the audience. Whether they're a loyal sidekick or the main character, real or animated, dogs always manage to steal the spotlight — and our hearts.
Dogs in film also serve as a mirror to our own emotions and experiences, evoking empathy and connecting us to our own humanity. Their ability to express emotions through their eyes and actions taps into the depths of our hearts, evoking laughter, tears, and everything in between. It's no wonder that dog-themed movies often become timeless classics that we revisit again and again, finding solace and warmth in their comforting narratives.
Beyond entertainment, dogs in film have had a profound impact on our society, inspiring countless people to adopt, rescue, and care for these incredible animals. The stories of their bravery, loyalty, and resilience instill a sense of responsibility and compassion in us, motivating us to be better humans and treat all living creatures with kindness and respect.
In celebration of our favorite canine movie stars, here's a ranking of the best movies about dogs ever made.
Marley and Me (2008)
20th Century Fox
John and Jenny Grogan navigate the ups and downs of marriage and parenthood alongside their mischievous Labrador, Marley. Through joy, chaos, and heartache, Marley teaches them valuable life lessons about love, loyalty, and the enduring bond between humans and their canine companions.
Frankenweenie (2012)
Disney Enterprises, Inc.
A budding young scientist named Victor brings his beloved dog Sparky back to life after a tragic accident. But when the town discovers Victor's Frankenstein'd pooch, his classmates clamor to wield the reanimation technology to bring back other dearly departed animals. It's a fun, kooky, and heartwarming tale about friendship and the acceptance of uniqueness.
Eight Below (2006)
Buena Vista Pictures
When an Antarctic expedition is cut short due to an unforeseen emergency, sled dog trainer Jerry Shepard fights against all odds to rescue his beloved team of eight loyal Huskies. This gripping true story showcases the incredible resilience of both man and canine in the harshest of environments.
Bolt (2008)
Disney Enterprises
Canine TV superhero Bolt (John Travolta) lets the fame go right between his pointy ears and comes to believe that he actually possesses superpowers. But when he's separated from his co-star and owner, Penny (Miley Cyrus), he's forced to embark on a cross-country journey, discovering his true self along the way.
Isle of Dogs (2018)
Fox Searchlight
In this quirky stop-motion animation film from Wes Anderson, a dystopian Japan quarantines dogs on a remote island covered in trash amidst a canine flu outbreak. When a young boy named Atari sets out to pluck his beloved dog Spots from the heap, he and a pack of exiled dogs team up for the daring odyssey.
Togo (2019)
Disney+
In this thrilling true story, a sled dog named Togo and his owner, Leonhard, set out on a treacherous journey to deliver a life-saving serum during a diphtheria outbreak in 1925 Alaska.
Lassie Come Home (1943)
Loew's Inc.
A heartwarming classic featuring arguably the most famous celebrity dog of all time: a loyal collie named Lassie. When Lassie is sold to a wealthy Duke, she embarks on a perilous 500-mile journey to reunite with her beloved young owner, Joe.
Snoopy, Come Home (1972)
National General Pictures
When Snoopy receives a letter from a former owner who is sick, he and his best friend, Woodstock, set out on an adventure to visit her. Like everything adapted from Charles M. Schulz's Peanuts comic strip, this animated film is heartwarming and full of valuable life lessons.
Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Walt Disney Studios
Lady, a pampered Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, a street-smart mut, form an unlikely romance in this animated Disney classic about the meaning of love and transcending the differences that divide us.
White Dog (1982)
Paramount Pictures
A young actress adopts a stray white German Shepherd, unaware that the dog has been trained to attack people with dark skin. As she tries to rehabilitate the canine, a black animal trainer attempts to reprogram the dog to overcome its violent conditioning. The film explores themes of racism, prejudice, and the potential for redemption in an emotionally charged and thought-provoking narrative.
Heart of a Dog (2015)
Abramorama
This contemplative documentary by Laurie Anderson delves into themes of love, loss, and the nature of consciousness centered around Anderson's beloved terrier, Lolabelle. Through personal reflections and poetic imagery, it explores the profound emotional connections we share with our pets and the essence of life itself.
101 Dalmatians (1961)
Walt Disney Productions
In this animated Disney classic, dalmatians Pongo and Perdita are overjoyed by the arrival of their adorable puppies. But when the villainous Cruella de Vil plots to steal them for her fur coat, the brave canine parents set off on a daring rescue mission, rallying other dogs in the process.
Red Dog: True Blue (2016)
Roadshow Film Distributors
This Australian family drama serves as a prequel to the original Red Dog film and follows a young boy named Mick who forms an unbreakable bond with a mischievous and loyal canine named Blue. Together, they navigate the beauty and challenges of the Australian outback, forging a lifelong friendship.
Old Yeller (1957)
Walt Disney Studios
In this heartrending family drama set in the Texas frontier, a scrappy stray dog, Old Yeller, befriends the Coates family and becomes an integral part of their lives. However, a tragic event challenges the family's bond, leading to a poignant tale of love and loss.
