TOP 25 All-Time Best Dog Movies (with IMDB ratings) For A Family Movie Night
There's just something magical about dogs on the big screen. From animated classics to live-action tearjerkers, movies centered around dogs tap into the special bond we share with our four-legged friends, delivering stories filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable moments.
Get ready to grab the popcorn (and maybe a box of tissues!) because we've fetched a list of the all-time best dog movies. Spanning decades and genres, this collection features some of the most beloved and highly-rated canine tales, guided by their IMDb scores. Prepare for epic journeys, heartwarming friendships, and a whole lot of tail-wagging entertainment!
Here's the list of all the dog movies we will sort through:
- Lassie Come Home (1943)
- Lady and the Tramp (1955)
- Old Yeller (1957)
- Where the Red Fern Grows (1974)
- All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989)
- Turner & Hooch (1989)
- White Fang (1991)
- Beethoven (1992)
- Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
- The Mask (1994)
- 101 Dalmatians (1996)
- Air Bud (1997)
- Best in Show (2000)
- My Dog Skip (2000)
- Lassie (2005)
- Eight Below (2006)
- Bolt (2008)
- Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009)
- Red Dog (2011)
- The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
- Isle of Dogs (2018)
- A Dog's Journey (2019)
- The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019)
- Togo (2019)
- Rescued by Ruby (2022)
- Bonus - Flow (2024)
Lassie Come Home (1943)
Genre: Family, Drama, Adventure
IMDb Rating: 7.1
Movie Length: 1h 29m
About The Movie: Set in Depression-era Yorkshire, England, the Carraclough family is forced by hardship to sell their beloved Rough Collie, Lassie, to the wealthy Duke of Rudling. Transported hundreds of miles away to Scotland, Lassie's incredible loyalty and instinct drive her to escape and embark on a perilous journey back to her young master, Joe.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers widely regard this film as a timeless classic and the definitive Lassie movie. Many praise it for its heartwarming, though often tear-jerking, story of loyalty and the bond between a boy and his dog. Pal's performance as Lassie is frequently highlighted as exceptional. Viewers often mention its faithfulness to the spirit of Eric Knight's novel and its enduring emotional impact across generations, calling it essential family viewing despite its sad moments.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The dog who played Lassie, Pal, was actually a male Rough Collie. He was initially rejected for the role, but won the part after impressing the director during a scene involving swimming across a river, a feat the originally chosen female collie was hesitant to perform.
Due to World War II travel restrictions, the film, despite being set entirely in Great Britain (Yorkshire and Scotland), was filmed primarily in Washington state and California.
Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Genre: Animation, Romance, Adventure, Family
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Movie Length: 1h 16m
About The Movie: This Disney animated classic tells the story of Lady, a pampered American Cocker Spaniel living a comfortable life, who meets Tramp, a charming stray mutt from the wrong side of the tracks. Through a series of adventures and challenges, including meddling Siamese cats and a trip to the dog pound, they fall in love.
IMDb Review Summary: Users adore this film as one of Disney's most charming and romantic animated features. The iconic spaghetti dinner scene is universally beloved. Reviewers praise the beautiful animation (especially its widescreen CinemaScope presentation), memorable songs, endearing characters (both canine and human), and the simple, sweet love story. It's frequently called a nostalgic favorite and a masterpiece of classic Disney animation.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The film was the first animated feature filmed in the widescreen CinemaScope process. This required wider background paintings and different character staging than standard animation formats.
The story was partly inspired by Walt Disney gifting his wife, Lillian, a Chow Chow puppy in a hatbox to make up for forgetting a dinner date, similar to how Lady is gifted in the film. The character of Tramp was inspired by a stray dog story Walt Disney read.
Old Yeller (1957)
Genre: Family, Drama, Western
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Movie Length: 1h 23m
About The Movie: Set in post-Civil War Texas, young Travis Coates is left in charge of the family farm while his father is away. He reluctantly takes in a stray yellow dog, "Old Yeller," who quickly proves his worth by protecting the family from various dangers. Travis and the dog form a deep bond, leading to a powerful and heart-wrenching climax.
IMDb Review Summary: This film is consistently remembered as a deeply emotional and impactful coming-of-age story. Reviewers highlight the realistic portrayal of frontier life, the strong performances (especially by Tommy Kirk as Travis), and the unforgettable bond between the boy and his dog. The ending is famously cited as one of the most heartbreaking moments in cinema history, yet many feel the film teaches valuable lessons about love, loss, and responsibility. It's considered a definitive Disney live-action classic.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The dog portraying Old Yeller was named Spike, a yellow Mastador (Labrador Retriever/English Mastiff mix) found in a shelter and trained by Frank Weatherwax.
Author Fred Gipson, who wrote the novel the film is based on, also co-wrote the screenplay. Walt Disney famously insisted on keeping the book's tragic ending despite some suggestions to soften it for a typical "Disney ending," believing it was essential to the story's integrity.
Where the Red Fern Grows (1974)
Genre: Family, Drama
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Movie Length: 1h 37m
About The Movie: Set in the Ozark Mountains during the Great Depression, this film follows young Billy Coleman, who works tirelessly for two years to save enough money to buy two Redbone Coonhound puppies. He trains his beloved dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, into expert raccoon hunters, and together they share adventures and face hardships in the wilderness.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers often praise this film as a faithful and heartwarming adaptation of the beloved children's novel. It's remembered for its wholesome portrayal of family, determination, and the deep bond between a boy and his dogs. Many viewers find it incredibly emotional, particularly towards the end, and consider it a classic family film that teaches valuable lessons, though some note it feels dated and might not capture the full magic of the book for everyone.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The movie was filmed on location in the Ozark region of Oklahoma, primarily around Tahlequah, to capture the authentic setting described in Wilson Rawls' novel. Some scenes were shot at what is now Natural Falls State Park.
The town of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, holds an annual "Red Fern Festival" celebrating the book and movie, often featuring tours of the original filming locations.
All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989)
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Family, Fantasy, Musical
IMDb Rating: 6.7
Movie Length: 1h 24m
About The Movie: Charlie B. Barkin, a charmingly roguish German Shepherd running a casino in 1930s New Orleans, is murdered by his business partner, Carface. He escapes from Heaven back to Earth seeking revenge but ends up befriending Anne-Marie, a young orphan girl who can talk to animals, ultimately learning lessons about friendship and selflessness.
IMDb Review Summary: This Don Bluth animated feature is remembered fondly by many for its unique style, catchy songs, and memorable voice performances (especially Burt Reynolds and Dom DeLuise). Reviewers often note its darker themes and moments compared to typical Disney fare of the era, which some appreciate and others find slightly jarring or convoluted. It's frequently cited as a nostalgic childhood favorite with a touching, albeit bittersweet, story.
Interesting Filming Facts:
This was the final film role for child actress Judith Barsi, who voiced Anne-Marie. She and her mother were tragically murdered by her father before the film's release. The end credits song, "Love Survives," is dedicated to her memory.
The film was released on the exact same day (November 17, 1989) as Disney's The Little Mermaid, creating direct competition at the box office between Don Bluth's independent studio and his former employer.
Turner & Hooch (1989)
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 6.2
Movie Length: 1h 37m
About The Movie: Uptight, obsessively neat police investigator Scott Turner is days away from a transfer when he's forced to adopt Hooch, a massive, messy, and slobbery Dogue de Bordeaux. Hooch is the only witness to his previous owner's murder, and the unlikely pair must learn to coexist while trying to crack the case.
IMDb Review Summary: Viewers enjoy this film primarily for the hilarious chemistry and comedic interactions between Tom Hanks and Beasley the dog (Hooch). Hanks' performance is praised for its comedic timing. While often described as predictable and formulaic for a buddy-cop comedy, reviewers find it charming, entertaining, and surprisingly heartwarming, citing the endearing (though destructive) nature of Hooch and the genuine bond that develops.
Interesting Filming Facts:
Beasley, the Dogue de Bordeaux who played Hooch, lived to be 14 years old, which is exceptionally long for the breed (average lifespan is 5-8 years). This was his only film credit.
Tom Hanks has mentioned that acting opposite a dog like Beasley was demanding because much of the interaction relied on reacting naturally to whatever the dog did, rather than having the dog perform specific trained actions on cue for every scene.
White Fang (1991)
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 6.7
Movie Length: 1h 47m
About The Movie: In the harsh Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush, young prospector Jack Conroy (Ethan Hawke) forms a powerful bond with White Fang, a wolfdog he rescues from a cruel owner who forced him into dog fighting. Together, they face the perils of the wilderness and the greed of men. Based on Jack London's classic novel.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers often praise the film's stunning Alaskan scenery and cinematography. Ethan Hawke's performance as the young protagonist is frequently mentioned positively. While some note that it softens the harsher edges of Jack London's novel, many appreciate it as a solid, engaging adventure story focusing on the strong bond between human and animal. It's considered a good family film, though some scenes might be intense for very young viewers.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The primary animal actor portraying White Fang was a trained wolfdog named Jed, who also famously appeared as the dog-like alien creature in John Carpenter's The Thing (1982) and the wolf in The Journey of Natty Gann (1985).
Filming took place in challenging conditions near Haines, Alaska, utilizing the stunning natural landscapes to depict the Yukon wilderness.
Beethoven (1992)
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 5.7
Movie Length: 1h 27m
About The Movie: A St. Bernard puppy escapes dognappers and wanders into the home of the Newton family. Named Beethoven, he quickly grows into a massive, drooling, lovable, yet highly destructive dog. While the kids adore him, dad George (Charles Grodin) is less thrilled, especially as Beethoven foils the evil schemes of a nefarious local veterinarian (Dean Jones).
IMDb Review Summary: This film is widely described as a lighthearted, fun, and entertaining family comedy, particularly appealing to kids and dog lovers. Viewers enjoy the slapstick humor derived from the giant dog's antics and Charles Grodin's exasperated dad persona. While the plot is considered predictable and silly by many adult reviewers, it's often remembered fondly as a nostalgic 90s staple.
Interesting Filming Facts:
Famed filmmaker John Hughes co-wrote the screenplay but used the pseudonym "Edmond Dantès" (the name of the protagonist from The Count of Monte Cristo), reportedly because he was leaving a deal with the studio, Universal Pictures, at the time.
While a real St. Bernard performed most actions, intricate or potentially harmful scenes utilized animatronic puppets, a person in a dog suit, and clever editing techniques to ensure the animal actor's safety. Eleanor Keaton, widow of silent film star Buster Keaton, was one of the dog trainers.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 7.0
Movie Length: 1h 24m
About The Movie: Believing their owners have abandoned them when left temporarily at a friend's ranch, three loyal pets—Shadow the wise Golden Retriever, Chance the impulsive American Bulldog, and Sassy the cynical Himalayan cat—undertake an arduous journey across the Sierra Nevada wilderness to find their way back home. Their thoughts and interactions are brought to life through voiceovers.
IMDb Review Summary: This remake is beloved by many as a heartwarming and exciting family adventure. Reviewers consistently praise the excellent voice work by Michael J. Fox (Chance), Sally Field (Sassy), and Don Ameche (Shadow), which gives the animals distinct personalities. The beautiful natural scenery, humor, and touching story of loyalty and perseverance make it a favorite for animal lovers of all ages.
Interesting Filming Facts:
Although the story is set in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, the movie was primarily filmed in various scenic locations throughout Oregon, including the Columbia River Gorge, Deschutes National Forest, and Portland.
Complex scenes involving potential danger to the animals, like Sassy going over the waterfall, were filmed using a combination of different locations, trained animal actions in controlled environments (like calmer water), and animal puppets or dummies for the most hazardous parts.
The Mask (1994)
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Crime
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Movie Length: 1h 41m
About The Movie: Mild-mannered, unlucky bank clerk Stanley Ipkiss (Jim Carrey) stumbles upon an ancient wooden mask imbued with the spirit of Loki, the Norse god of mischief. When Stanley puts it on, he transforms into "The Mask," a green-faced, zoot-suited, cartoonish trickster with reality-bending powers and zero inhibitions. He uses his new persona to woo singer Tina Carlyle (Cameron Diaz) and deal with his personal tormentors, attracting the attention of both the police and ruthless mobsters. Stanley's loyal Jack Russell terrier, Milo, also plays a key role.
IMDb Review Summary: Viewers overwhelmingly praise Jim Carrey's manic, physically brilliant performance, calling it perfectly suited for the role and often citing it as one of his best. The film is remembered for its groundbreaking (at the time) visual effects that blend live-action with cartoon physics, paying homage to classic Looney Tunes. Cameron Diaz's debut performance is frequently highlighted as stunning. While the plot is often considered secondary to the comedy and effects, the film is widely regarded as a hilarious, inventive, highly entertaining, and iconic 90s comedy classic.
Interesting Filming Facts:
This film marked the acting debut of Cameron Diaz, who was working as a model with no prior acting experience when she was cast as the female lead, Tina Carlyle.
Director Chuck Russell revealed that Jim Carrey's incredible physical flexibility and naturally cartoonish facial expressions saved the production considerable money (estimated around $1 million) on special effects, as Carrey could achieve many effects practically that might otherwise have required digital enhancement.
101 Dalmatians (1996)
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Crime, Family
Movie Length: 1h 43m
About The Movie: In this live-action adaptation of the Disney animated classic, the villainous high-fashion designer Cruella De Vil becomes obsessed with making a coat out of Dalmatian puppy fur. She dognaps a litter belonging to Roger and Anita, whose own Dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita, must rally an animal network across London to rescue their pups and dozens of others from Cruella's clutches.
IMDb Review Summary: Glenn Close's performance as Cruella De Vil is almost universally praised as iconic, scenery-chewing perfection, often cited as the highlight of the film. Reviewers generally find it a fun, entertaining family film with amusing slapstick comedy, especially involving the bumbling henchmen (Hugh Laurie and Mark Williams). While some feel it lacks the charm of the original animation, many appreciate it as a visually appealing adaptation suitable for kids.
Interesting Filming Facts:
A staggering 230 Dalmatian puppies and 20 adult Dalmatians were used during the course of filming, as puppies grow too quickly to be used for more than a couple of weeks at a time.
Despite her character Cruella's obsession with fur, actress Glenn Close insisted that all of her elaborate costumes be made from faux fur.
Air Bud (1997)
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family, Sport
IMDb Rating: 5.3
Movie Length: 1h 38m
About The Movie: After the death of his father, young Josh Framm moves to a new town and struggles to make friends. He discovers Buddy, a stray Golden Retriever who escaped an abusive owner (a clown!) and possesses an incredible talent for shooting basketballs. Buddy joins Josh's struggling school basketball team, leading them to victory while trying to stay hidden from his former owner.
IMDb Review Summary: This film is widely regarded as a nostalgic family favorite, especially for those who grew up in the 90s. Reviewers find the premise of a basketball-playing dog fun and unique, and Buddy the dog is seen as endearing. While the plot is often called predictable and cheesy, and some acting is criticized, many appreciate its heartwarming message about friendship and overcoming adversity. It's noted for kicking off a long-running franchise.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The dog who played Buddy was actually named Buddy! He was a stray found by writer/producer Kevin DiCicco in the Sierra Nevada mountains and trained in various sports. Buddy really could shoot baskets (by nudging the ball with his muzzle).
Buddy the dog first gained public attention performing his basketball trick on the "Stupid Pet Tricks" segment of Late Night with David Letterman.
Best in Show (2000)
Genre: Comedy
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Movie Length: 1h 30m
About The Movie: This mockumentary follows five eccentric and diverse groups of dog owners as they travel to and compete in the prestigious Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show in Philadelphia. Through hilarious interviews and interactions, the film satirizes the intense, quirky, and sometimes obsessive world of competitive dog shows.
IMDb Review Summary: Hailed as a comedic masterpiece by many reviewers, Best in Show is lauded for its brilliant improvisational humor and sharply observed characters. The ensemble cast (including Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Parker Posey, Fred Willard, and director Christopher Guest) is consistently praised for their hilarious performances. It's considered a high point of the mockumentary genre and laugh-out-loud funny, even for those unfamiliar with dog shows.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The film was largely improvised by the actors based on a minimal 16-page narrative outline created by Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy, rather than a traditional screenplay with full dialogue.
Actor Fred Willard, who played the clueless commentator Buck Laughlin, was specifically instructed not to do any research on dogs or dog shows to maintain his character's hilarious ignorance, contrasting with co-commentator Jim Piddock, who researched extensively.
My Dog Skip (2000)
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 7.0
Movie Length: 1h 35m
About The Movie: Based on the memoir by Willie Morris, this coming-of-age story is set in Yazoo City, Mississippi, during the 1940s. Shy, lonely Willie receives a Jack Russell Terrier puppy named Skip for his birthday. Skip becomes his constant companion, helping him gain confidence, make friends, deal with bullies, and experience the joys and sorrows of childhood during wartime.
IMDb Review Summary: Viewers describe My Dog Skip as a heartwarming, touching, and nostalgic film that beautifully captures the essence of childhood and the special bond between a boy and his dog. Frankie Muniz's performance as Willie is praised, as are the supporting roles by Kevin Bacon and Diane Lane. Many find the movie deeply moving, particularly the ending, and consider it a wonderful, though sometimes sad, family film.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The role of Skip was played by six different Jack Russell Terriers, including Enzo, the son of Moose (the dog famous for playing Eddie on the TV show Frasier). Moose himself also played the older version of Skip in some scenes.
While author Willie Morris's original dog, Skip, was reportedly a Smooth Fox Terrier, the filmmakers opted to use Jack Russell Terriers because trained Fox Terriers suitable for filming were unavailable.
Lassie (2005)
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 6.7
Movie Length: 1h 40m
About The Movie: Set in Yorkshire on the brink of World War II, this adaptation sees the poor Carraclough family forced to sell their intelligent and devoted Rough Collie, Lassie, to the Duke (Peter O'Toole). Taken far away to the Duke's Scottish estate, Lassie makes a daring escape and braves hundreds of miles and numerous dangers to journey back to her beloved young master, Joe.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers praise this version for its faithfulness to Eric Knight's original novel, its stunning cinematography capturing the beauty of the British Isles (though filmed mostly in Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man), and strong performances, especially from Peter O'Toole. Many find it a moving, beautifully made family film that treats the story with realism and heart, successfully updating the classic tale for a new generation without being overly sentimental.
Interesting Filming Facts:
During filming, actor Peter Dinklage (who plays a traveling puppeteer named Rowlie) speaks the line "Winter is coming," famously associated with his later role as Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones (2011), twice in the movie.
Director Charles Sturridge aimed for realism and treated Lassie more like a real dog than a superhero; several different collies were used for filming, selected for specific skills or appearances.
Eight Below (2006)
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Movie Length: 2h 0m
About The Movie: Inspired by a true Japanese expedition, this survival drama follows Antarctic guide Jerry Shepherd (Paul Walker) who must leave his team of eight loyal sled dogs chained at a remote research base during an emergency evacuation caused by a massive storm. While Jerry desperately tries to find a way back, the dogs must endure the brutal Antarctic winter alone, relying on their instincts and bonds to survive.
IMDb Review Summary: Viewers are captivated by the breathtaking Antarctic landscapes (filmed in Greenland, Norway, and Canada) and the incredible performance of the sled dogs, highlighting their intelligence and resilience. The film is praised as a thrilling, emotional, and suspenseful story of survival and the deep bond between humans and animals. Paul Walker's performance is also often noted positively. Some viewers find parts intense or sad, but overall it's considered a strong adventure film.
Interesting Filming Facts:
While set in Antarctica, the majority of the film's stunning wilderness scenes were shot in Svalbard, Norway; Greenland; and British Columbia, Canada due to the logistical challenges and restrictions of filming on the actual Antarctic continent.
The film is an American adaptation of the 1983 Japanese blockbuster hit Antarctica (Nankyoku Monogatari), which was based on the actual events of a 1958 Japanese expedition where dogs were left behind, though the American version significantly altered the plot and outcome for the dogs.
Bolt (2008)
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Sci-Fi
IMDb Rating: 6.8
Movie Length: 1h 36m
About The Movie: Bolt is the canine star of a hit TV series who has been raised on set to believe his superpowers (like a "superbark") are real. Accidentally shipped from Hollywood to New York, Bolt embarks on a cross-country quest to reunite with his owner and co-star, Penny. Along the way, he teams up with cynical alley cat Mittens and Rhino, a fearless, TV-obsessed hamster in a ball, learning what it means to be a real dog.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers find Bolt to be a fun, entertaining, and heartwarming animated adventure. The animation is praised for its quality, and the characters, particularly the scene-stealing hamster Rhino, are considered highly amusing. The voice acting, led by John Travolta and Miley Cyrus, is generally well-regarded. While perhaps not reaching the heights of Pixar's best, it's seen as a strong, enjoyable film from Disney Animation with a good mix of action, comedy, and emotion.
Interesting Filming Facts:
Bolt marked a significant moment for Walt Disney Animation Studios, being the first film fully overseen by John Lasseter after Pixar executives took creative control, initiating a period often seen as a revival for the studio.
The film employed a new non-photorealistic rendering (NPR) technique to give the CGI backgrounds a more painterly look, aiming to blend the visual style of traditional painting with 3D animation.
Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009)
Genre: Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Movie Length: 1h 33m
About The Movie: An American adaptation of a true Japanese story, this film follows Professor Parker Wilson (Richard Gere) who finds a lost Akita puppy at his train station. Naming him Hachi, Parker forms an incredibly deep bond with the dog, who faithfully meets him at the station every evening. Tragically, after Parker's sudden death, Hachi continues to wait at the station daily for years, becoming a local symbol of unwavering loyalty.
IMDb Review Summary: This film is overwhelmingly described by reviewers as profoundly moving and an absolute tearjerker. Viewers connect deeply with the powerful true story of Hachi's loyalty and devotion. Richard Gere's performance is praised, as is the performance of the dogs playing Hachi. While noted for its slow pace, many find its emotional impact immense, calling it a beautiful and unforgettable story about the human-animal bond, though some find the family's perceived lack of care for Hachi after the professor's death troubling.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The role of Hachi was primarily played by three different Akitas named Chico, Layla, and Forrest, portraying the dog at different stages of his life. Tiny weights were sometimes used on their ears and tails to help depict aging.
The movie was primarily filmed in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Following the film's release, a bronze statue identical to the famous Hachikō statue outside Shibuya Station in Tokyo was unveiled at the Woonsocket Depot Square, where filming took place.
Red Dog (2011)
Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama, Family, Romance
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Movie Length: 1h 32m
About The Movie: Based on a legendary true Australian story, the film chronicles the life of Red Dog, a charismatic Kelpie who wanders into the remote mining town of Dampier in Western Australia during the 1970s. Adopted by the community, he especially bonds with an American bus driver, John Grant. Red Dog's adventures and travels unite the disparate townsfolk and ultimately cement his status as an outback legend.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers widely praise Red Dog as a heartwarming, funny, and quintessentially Australian film. The performance of Koko, the dog actor, is frequently highlighted as captivating. The movie is lauded for successfully blending humor and pathos, capturing the unique spirit of the outback community, and telling a moving story about companionship and belonging. It's often described as making viewers both laugh and cry.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The star canine actor, Koko the Red Cloud Kelpie, became a celebrity in Australia after the film's success. He won the Golden Collar Award for Best Dog in a Foreign Film in Los Angeles in 2012 but sadly passed away from heart disease later that year.
The film was shot on location in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, including the actual town of Dampier where the real Red Dog lived, capturing the unique red landscape of the area.
The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Movie Length: 1h 26m
About The Movie: Ever wonder what your pets do when you leave for the day? This animated comedy explores that idea, focusing on Max, a devoted terrier whose world is rocked when his owner brings home Duke, a giant, unruly mongrel. Their rivalry leads them astray in New York City, where they encounter a rebellious bunny named Snowball who leads an army of abandoned "Flushed Pets" seeking revenge on humans.
IMDb Review Summary: Viewers generally find The Secret Life of Pets to be a fun, visually vibrant, and humorous animated film, especially appealing to children and pet owners who enjoy the relatable pet antics. The animation style (from Illumination, the studio behind Despicable Me) is praised, and characters like Snowball (voiced by Kevin Hart) are often cited as highlights. While some find the plot derivative of films like Toy Story, most consider it an enjoyable and entertaining ride.
Interesting Filming Facts:
This was the fifth feature film collaboration between Illumination Entertainment and Universal Pictures, following hits like Despicable Me and Minions.
It marked the feature animation voice acting debuts for comedians Louis C.K. (Max - later recast for the sequel), Eric Stonestreet (Duke), and Kevin Hart (Snowball).
Isle of Dogs (2018)
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
IMDb Rating: 7.8
Movie Length: 1h 41m
About The Movie: In director Wes Anderson's stop-motion animated film set in a dystopian future Japan, an outbreak of "canine flu" leads Mayor Kobayashi to banish all dogs to Trash Island. Twelve-year-old Atari Kobayashi defies the ban, flying a small plane to the island to search for his beloved bodyguard dog, Spots, receiving help from a pack of cynical alpha dogs led by Chief.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the film's stunning and meticulous stop-motion animation and Wes Anderson's unique, symmetrical visual style. The intricate world-building, quirky humor, and stellar voice cast (Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Scarlett Johansson, etc.) are frequently highlighted. It's considered a visually inventive, charming, and often touching film, though some critics raised concerns about its portrayal of Japanese culture.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The film involved the creation of over 1,000 intricate, handmade puppets (around 500 dogs and 500 humans), each requiring multiple scales for different shots, brought to life through painstaking stop-motion animation.
Wes Anderson drew inspiration from the films of Japanese master Akira Kurosawa (like Seven Samurai and High and Low) and classic Rankin/Bass stop-motion holiday specials (like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer).
A Dog's Journey (2019)
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Family, Fantasy
Movie Length: 1h 49m
About The Movie: In this sequel to A Dog's Purpose, the soulful dog Bailey (voiced by Josh Gad) finds his new purpose is to protect CJ, the granddaughter of his beloved owner Ethan (Dennis Quaid). Across several reincarnations—as Molly the Beagle, Big Dog the Mastiff, and Max the Yorkie—Bailey watches over CJ as she grows up, facing challenges and pursuing her dreams.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers often describe this sequel as just as heartwarming and emotional as the first film, possibly even more so for some due to its focus on a single human-dog relationship across lifetimes. The story is praised for its touching moments and exploration of the enduring bond between humans and their pets. While some may find the reincarnation premise sentimental or formulaic, many viewers, especially dog lovers, find it deeply moving and satisfying.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The various canine lives of Bailey in this film include an elderly St. Bernard/Australian Shepherd mix (at the beginning), a female Beagle named Molly, a male English Mastiff named Big Dog, and a male Yorkshire Terrier named Max.
Much of the movie was filmed in Manitoba, Canada, using the working title "Molly and Max" during production.
The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019)
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sport (Note: Sport element is thematic)
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Movie Length: 1h 49m
About The Movie: Told from the wise and philosophical perspective of Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner), a Golden Retriever, this film follows his life with his owner Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia), an aspiring Formula One driver. Enzo observes Denny's life—his career, his romance with Eve (Amanda Seyfried), their family challenges—applying lessons learned from the racetrack to the journey of human life.
IMDb Review Summary: Viewers praise the film for its unique narrative perspective (told by the dog) and its deeply emotional story exploring love, loyalty, family, loss, and perseverance. The performances by Milo Ventimiglia and Amanda Seyfried are well-regarded, and Kevin Costner's voice work as Enzo adds a distinct charm. Many reviewers call it a touching tearjerker, especially resonant for dog owners, effectively adapting the beloved novel.
Interesting Filming Facts:
This marked Kevin Costner's first major voice acting role in his long career, providing the inner monologue for Enzo the dog.
While the story is fictional, author Garth Stein drew inspiration from his own experiences with racing and a childhood dog, as well as a Mongolian legend that dogs who are ready can be reincarnated as humans.
Togo (2019)
Genre: Adventure, Biography, Drama, Family, History
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Movie Length: 1h 54m
About The Movie: This film tells the true story, often overshadowed by Balto, of the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. Leonhard Seppala (Willem Dafoe), a champion musher, and his aging lead sled dog, Togo, must brave treacherous conditions and cover the longest, most dangerous leg of the relay to transport vital diphtheria antitoxin and save the town's children during a deadly epidemic.
IMDb Review Summary: Reviewers highly praise Togo for finally giving credit to the titular dog and Leonhard Seppala for their incredible feat during the serum run. Willem Dafoe's performance is lauded, as is the portrayal of Togo's courage and intelligence. The film is described as a thrilling, suspenseful, and emotionally powerful adventure with stunning cinematography (despite not being filmed in Alaska). Many consider it a superior and more accurate telling of the serum run story compared to films focusing solely on Balto.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The main dog actor portraying Togo, Diesel, is a CKC registered Siberian Husky who is a direct descendant of the real Togo, 14 generations removed.
Principal photography took place primarily in Alberta, Canada, particularly in Kananaskis Country and near Cochrane, with these locations standing in for the harsh Alaskan landscapes of 1925.
Rescued by Ruby (2022)
Genre: Biography, Drama, Family
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Movie Length: 1h 30m
About The Movie: Based on a true story, Rhode Island State Trooper Daniel O'Neil (Grant Gustin) dreams of joining the K-9 search and rescue unit but struggles to find the right canine partner and prove himself. He takes a chance on Ruby, an energetic and seemingly untrainable Australian Shepherd/Border Collie mix from a local shelter who is on her last chance before being euthanized. Together, the two underdogs form an unlikely bond and strive to achieve their potential.
IMDb Review Summary: This Netflix film is consistently described as a heartwarming, feel-good, and inspirational family movie. Viewers appreciate the true story of overcoming odds and the strong bond between Dan and Ruby. Grant Gustin's performance is well-received, and the movie effectively highlights the value of shelter dogs and second chances. While predictable for the genre, it's praised for its positive message and emotional impact.
Interesting Filming Facts:
The real Ruby, an Australian Shepherd/Border Collie mix, was returned to the shelter five times for being "unmanageable" before being adopted by Trooper Dan O'Neil hours before she was scheduled to be put down. She went on to become a decorated K-9 unit dog.
Fittingly, the main dog actor portraying Ruby in the film, Bear, is also a rescue dog who was saved from being euthanized by the film's dog trainers.
Bonus Entry: Flow (2024)
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Family, Fantasy
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Movie Length: 1h 24m
About The Movie: In a visually stunning, wordless animated film, a solitary Cat's world is devastated by a great flood. Forced from its home, the Cat finds refuge on a small boat already occupied by other animals, including a Capybara, a Lemur, a Bird, and a Dog. Despite their differences and instincts, they must learn to cooperate and trust each other to navigate the flooded, mysterious landscape and survive.
IMDb/Critical Review Summary: Flow has received widespread critical acclaim since its debut at the Cannes Film Festival. Critics praise its breathtaking and unique animation style (created entirely using Blender), its powerful emotional resonance achieved without dialogue, and its profound themes of survival, adaptation, cooperation, and the interconnectedness of nature. It's described as visually mesmerizing, meditative, often suspenseful, and deeply moving – a groundbreaking work in animation. Early user reviews echo this sentiment, highlighting its beauty and emotional depth.
Interesting Filming Facts:
Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis created almost the entire film himself using the free, open-source 3D software Blender, handling direction, animation, design, editing, and even co-composing the score, similar to his approach on his debut feature Away (2019).
The film features no spoken dialogue, relying entirely on visual storytelling, animal behavior, sound design (using real animal recordings, sometimes creatively sourced, like using baby camel sounds for the capybara), and music to convey emotion and narrative.
And there you have it – a journey through decades of wagging tails, wet noses, and unforgettable canine adventures on screen! From the timeless loyalty of Lassie and Hachi to the hilarious antics of Beethoven and Marley, the thrilling survival of the Eight Below pack, the unique artistry of Isle of Dogs and Flow, and the heartwarming true stories of Togo and Ruby, these films truly capture the incredible impact dogs have on our lives.
We hope this list helps you discover a new favorite or revisit an old classic. Now, we want to hear from you!
What are your all-time favorite dog movies? Did any of your top picks make the list? Are there any hidden gems we missed?
Share your thoughts, memories, and recommendations in the comments below – let's keep the celebration of cinematic canines going!
Happy watching!