Best Labrador Retriever Movies With IMDB & Rottentomatoes Ratings

 

Are you a Labrador owner who loves seeing your favorite breed shine in movies? Or a person whose motto is  - I like dogs more than people?

As a Labrador owner for almost 11 years (can't believe how time has flown by), I always get excited when a new Labrador movie arises on the horizon.

This led me to compile a list of memorable Labrador film appearances showcasing their charm and talent. For each movie, I have included IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes ratings, a movie trailer, and an assessment of its kid-friendliness in case you want to watch them with your children. I have also dug up interesting facts about the movie filming process to make this read more enjoyable.

Here's a list (from the newest to the oldest) of the movies we'll be exploring:

Title (Year)	IMDb Rating	Rotten Tomatoes Rating	Kid-Friendly Age
Unleashing Hope: The Power of Service Dogs for Autism (2025)	8.8	Limited Reviews	8+
Flow (2024)	7.9	98%	5+
Labrador | One Dog's Journey To Where It All Began	-	-	6+
Dog Gone (2023)	6.1	67%	10+
Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021)	5.9	94%	5+
Pick of the Litter (2018)	7.6	90%	6+
Labrador / Out Of Bounds (2011)	5.7	-	16+
Marley & Me (2008)	7.1	64%	10+
Far From Home: The Adventures of Yellow Dog (1995)	6.3	54%	9+
Old Yeller (1957)	7.2	79%	8+

 

Unleashing Hope: The Power of Service Dogs for Autism (2025)

Genre: Documentary, Family

IMDb Rating: 8.8

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: N/A (no entries yet due to how new this documentary is)

Movie Length: 42 minutes

Where to watch Unleashing Hope?: Hulu

Kid-Friendly?: 8+. Educational and heartwarming real life stories. Self-harm is mentioned.

About the Movie: This documentary follows several families and individuals impacted by autism, detailing their journey with service dogs. It highlights the challenges and positive changes these specially trained canines bring into their lives. Viewers give this documentary overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly within the autism and service dog communities. Audiences describe it as incredibly heartwarming, educational, and inspiring. We highly recommend you watch this documentary to understand the experiences of those with autism and their service dogs

Interesting Filming Facts:

Produced by Advocacy Organizations: This film was produced in collaboration with leading autism advocacy and service dog organizations. This ensures accuracy and sensitivity in its portrayal of autism and service dog training, lending credibility and authenticity to the featured stories.

Real Families, Real Impact: The film features actual families and individuals living with autism, along with their service dogs. This provides an authentic and powerful perspective on their daily challenges and triumphs, showcasing the genuine, life-changing impact these canine companions have instead of relying on fictional accounts.

 

Flow (2024)

Genre: Animation/Adventure/Survival/Family

IMDB rating: 7.9

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 98%

Length: 1h 25min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 5+. Visually stunning, dialogue-free adventure with themes of survival and mild peril. Focuses on friendship.

About the Movie: Experience a breathtaking and unique animated journey where a resilient cat navigates a post-apocalyptic world, finding an unlikely ally in a loyal Labrador Retriever. "Flow" (2024) captivates with its stunning, dialogue-free visuals and powerful storytelling, making it a must-see for animation enthusiasts and pet owners alike. Labrador retriever plays a significant role and the film beautifully portrays the essence of canine loyalty and the universal language of friendship, offering a heartwarming reminder of the strength found in unexpected bonds.

"Flow's" remarkable success, celebrated with Oscar and Golden Globe wins among its numerous accolades (54 wins and 70 nominations!), is even more impressive considering its modest €3.5 million budget – a tiny fraction compared to giants like Disney's "Tangled" (€260 million). Created with open-source Blender software, "Flow" showcases incredible creative ingenuity, proving that impactful storytelling doesn't require massive resources.

"Flow's" universal themes of environmental awareness, survival, and unity have allowed it to achieve a rare success in the Chinese market, further underscoring its global impact.

If you haven't yet seen it, this is a 'golden nugget' of a movie that will fit people of different backgrounds, languages and ages.

 

Labrador | One Dog's Journey To Where It All Began (2023)

I was very dedicated to research the internet to find all the best movies about Labrador Retriever dogs. One day, as I was scrolling the Youtube, I 'stumbled' upon this short-film gem. A full movie is only 20min long as it wasn't filmed by a large movie studio. And that's exactly what I love the most about it! It is artistic and professional, with the best actors - you will see!

This beautiful 20min film tells a story about Sansa, a red labrador retriever dog who has two human parents - the film's director and filmmaker Denny Gevirtz & Anna Gevirtz. There are no IMDB and Rottentomatoes rating because of that, but I am sharing their wonderful work as I know all Labrador owners, like me, will appreciate it! Enjoy!

 

Dog Gone (2023)

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family

IMDb Rating: 6.5

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 89%

Length: 1h 35min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 8+. Inspiring true story of a lost dog with some emotional intensity and suspense. Positive family themes.

About the Movie: "Dog Gone" (2023) follows the emotional journey of a father and son, portrayed by Rob Lowe and Johnny Berchtold, as they embark on a desperate search for their lost Golden Retriever mix, Gonker, in the vast and challenging Appalachian Trail. This heartwarming film, based on actual events from 1998, showcases the profound connection and unwavering loyalty that any dog owner will deeply understand.

Interestingly, the real-life brother-in-law of the book's author, Fielding Marshall, and the author, Pauls Toutonghi, even appear as extras in the movie, which was filmed in the scenic landscapes of Georgia, standing in for parts of the Appalachian Trail.

Just like a seasoned Hollywood star, the role of Gonker was brought to life by a team of talented Golden Retrievers – three adult dogs and a few adorable puppies for flashbacks! Adding a touch of authenticity, Gonker's charming habit of eating donuts in a peculiar way was a real trait of the actual dog. The urgency in their search is heightened by Gonker's Addison's disease, a real medical condition requiring monthly medication.

Reviews on IMDb highlight the film's heartwarming narrative, the stunning scenery, and the powerful portrayal of hope and determination in the face of adversity.

Composed by the gifted young composer Emily Bear, the score beautifully underscores this incredible journey. It's a testament to the lengths we'll go for our furry family members and the enduring love that binds us to our canine companions.

This film is a must-see for anyone who has ever experienced the worry of a lost pet and the immense joy of their return.

 

Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021)

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family

IMDb Rating: 5.9

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 94%

Length: 1h 36min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 6+. Live-action family adventure with silly slapstick humor and mild peril involving a very large, lovable dog.

About the Movie: Get ready for an absolutely gigantic dose of love and adventure with the live-action adaptation of everyone's favorite colossal canine! "Clifford the Big Red Dog" (2021) introduces Emily Elizabeth, a middle schooler struggling to fit in. Her life changes dramatically when she receives a tiny, red puppy who, to her astonishment, grows overnight into a ten-foot-tall dog! As Clifford creates hilarious chaos (and some unexpected magic) across New York City, Emily and her eccentric Uncle Casey must find a way to keep him safe from a greedy genetics company. This heartwarming film is a charming celebration of uniqueness, acceptance, and the extraordinary bond between a girl and her unbelievably large canine companion. IMDb reviews praise the film's family-friendly humor, its vibrant visuals, and the endearing portrayal of Clifford, making it a delightful watch for any dog lover or pet owner who believes in the power of a really, really big heart!

Interesting Filming Facts: 

CGI & Practical Effects: While Clifford is primarily a CGI creation, the filmmakers ingeniously used various practical effects and large props (like a giant red tongue and oversized paws) on set. This allowed the actors to interact more realistically with what would become the enormous dog, helping them react authentically.

Book Inspiration: The original Clifford books were inspired by author Norman Bridwell's wife and her childhood wish for a dog that was "the size of a horse." This desire stemmed from their small apartment space, making a regular dog seem too big, so she imagined a truly enormous one.

 

Pick Of The Litter (2018)

Genre: Documentary, Family

IMDb Rating: 7.6

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 90%

Length: 1h 21min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 6+. Inspiring documentary about puppies training to be guide dogs. Features emotional challenges and triumphs.

About the Movie: Witness the inspiring journey of a very special litter in "Pick of the Litter" (2018), a heartwarming documentary that follows a group of Labrador Retriever puppies from their earliest days through an intense two-year training program to become Guide Dogs for the Blind. The film chronicles their challenges, triumphs, and the extraordinary bond they form with their future human partners. This unique and moving perspective on these remarkable dogs' dedication, intelligence, and unwavering commitment will surely captivate you.

IMDb reviews celebrate the film's emotional depth, insight into the world of guide dog training, and the irresistible charm of the puppies themselves. For any dog lover, especially those who admire the capabilities and devotion of service animals, "Pick of the Litter" is a touching and eye-opening story that showcases the truly life-changing impact our canine companions can have.

 

Labrador / Out Of Bounds (2011)

Genre: Drama, Psychological Thriller

Movie Length: 1h30min

IMDb Rating: 5.7

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: N/A

Kid-Friendly?: No, not for children. 16+. Mature themes of complex family relationships.

About the Movie: The story unfolds on a remote, windswept island where Stella and Oskar arrive to visit Stella's enigmatic father, Nathan. Nathan leads a minimalist existence, his only consistent companion being his black Labrador Retriever. As Stella attempts to reconnect with her father, the strained and abnormal nature of their relationship becomes alarmingly apparent. The desolate setting amplifies the emotional isolation and unresolved conflicts between the characters, drawing the audience into a tense exploration of buried family history and disturbing psychological dynamics.

"Labrador" or also called "Out Of Bounds" film has been noted in international independent film circles for its atmospheric tension and its exploration of challenging family dynamics. While not a film for broad audiences, it resonates with those who appreciate slow-burn psychological dramas and deep character studies, particularly regarding dysfunctional relationships.

Interesting Filming Facts:

Director's Debut: "Labrador" marks Frederikke Aspöck's feature film directorial debut. Her background in short films and visual arts likely influenced the film's strong atmospheric qualities and character-driven narrative.

 

Marley & Me (2008)

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family

IMDb Rating: 7.0

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 63%

Length: 1h 55min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 9+. Very emotional and sad drama about a mischievous dog's life. Contains mature themes and some language.

About the Movie: Prepare for a touching and often humorous exploration of canine companionship and the realities of welcoming a high-energy yellow lab into your home! "Marley & Me" (2008) chronicles the life of the Grogan family as they navigate marriage and parenthood alongside their exuberant Labrador Retriever puppy, Marley.

Adapted from John Grogan's popular book, "Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog," this movie beautifully illustrates the ups and downs of raising a Lab, showcasing their loving spirit and occasionally destructive tendencies. Keep an eye out for author John Grogan himself in a cameo during the dog training class.

Amazingly, a whopping twenty-two different yellow Labradors were used to portray Marley throughout his life! For those chaotic chewing scenes, special breakaway props and trained dogs ensured safety and hilarity. 

While the story unfolds in Florida and Pennsylvania, filming also took place in Ireland. For a particularly poignant rainy scene, a prosthetic belly was used on the dog actor to enhance the visual of Marley's illness. In a unique promotional tie-in, some scenes were even filmed during a real Miami Marlins baseball game!

Viewer feedback on IMDb often points to the film's ability to elicit a wide range of emotions, from laughter at Marley's antics to tears at the poignant moments of their bond. It's a relatable tale for any pet parent, particularly those who understand the unique and lasting impact a canine friend can have on a family's journey. And hey, thinking about getting a dog for the kids? Maybe show them this first. Just sayin'.

 

Old Yeller (1957)

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family

IMDb Rating: 7.8

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 88%

Length: 1h 23min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 8+. Classic dog movie with sad, intense themes. Contains violence and a heartbreaking ending.

About the Movie: "Old Yeller" (1957) is a deeply moving story, adapted from the beloved 1956 Newbery Honor Book by Fred Gipson, that explores the powerful bond between humans and dogs, particularly the loyal Lab mix, Old Yeller, and a young boy named Travis on the Texas frontier.

Often cited among the best dog movies, this film's sincere portrayal of friendship, courage, and the bittersweet realities of life resonated deeply with audiences. Much of the filming, despite its Texas setting, took place in the picturesque landscapes of California, including Walt Disney's Golden Oak Ranch.

Notably, "Old Yeller" holds a special place in cinematic history as the first live-action Disney film without animation to be preserved in the U.S. National Film Registry.

Reviews on IMDb consistently praise its emotional depth and the unforgettable connection between boy and his devoted dog.

 

Far From Home: The Adventures of Yellow Lab (1995)

Genre: Adventure, Family, Survival

IMDb Rating: 6.3

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 54%

Length: 1h 21min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 6+. Family adventure with animal peril and intense moments. Focuses on survival and determination.

About the Movie: "Far from Home: The Adventures of Yellow Dog" (1995) takes you on a breathtaking journey through the stunning wilderness of British Columbia, a setting that presented real-life adventures for the cast and crew amidst its beauty.

The adorable Yellow Dog, primarily played by the very appealing Labrador named Dakotah, had a whole team of yellow lab co-stars – Schroeder, Auggie, Foster, and Linus – each lending their special skills to the role, and even an animatronic stand-in for certain shots! Interesting fact - for those scenes where Yellow's digging for clams, he was actually on a tasty mission for buried doggie snacks!

Keep an eye out for the search and rescue helicopter; it's a CH-113 "Labrador," a fitting ride for a movie with such a wonderful canine companion at its heart.

Interestingly, this beautiful film was the last directorial work of Phillip Borsos, adding a touch of poignancy to its legacy. This family-friendly adventure showcases the devoted dog's intelligence and unwavering companionship as Angus, using his wilderness skills, tries to find their way back home.

IMDb reviews often praise the film's beautiful cinematography and the genuine bond portrayed between the boy and his canine friend, highlighting Yellow's heroic spirit and the powerful message of perseverance. It's a touching story that celebrates the incredible loyalty and resourcefulness that make Labrador Retrievers such cherished companions.

 

The Incredible Journey (1963)

Genre: Adventure, Family

IMDb Rating: 7.0

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87%

Length: 1h 20min

Is The Movie Kid Friendly? Ages 6+. Classic animal adventure with suspense and some animal peril. Focuses on loyalty and perseverance.

About the Movie: Prepare for an unforgettable adventure that celebrates the enduring spirit of loyal Labs and the powerful pull of home! "The Incredible Journey" is a captivating film that follows the remarkable trek of three beloved pets – including a determined Labrador Retriever – across the rugged Canadian wilderness to reunite with their family. Inspired by author Sheila Burnford's observation of the real-life bond between her pets, this movie beautifully showcases the bravery and resilience of our furry companions.

Interestingly, while the story is set in Canada, much of the filming took place in the diverse landscapes of Sequim, Washington, USA, with some initial scenes shot in Ontario.

Unlike the later remake, the animals here don't speak, relying entirely on the skillful training to convey their emotions. 

A little-known fact is that Muffy, a female Bull Terrier, played the male character Bodger! Director Fletcher Markle aimed for a natural, almost documentary-like feel, emphasizing the genuine animal behavior. Often praised as one of the quintessential animal movies, "The Incredible Journey" beautifully showcases the incredible bond these animals share with their owners.

IMDb reviews frequently highlight the film's heartwarming narrative and the testament it is to the lengths our devoted dogs will go to find their way back to those they love.

 

So there you have it, a collection of fantastic films and shows celebrating the wonderful Labrador Retriever! Whether you're a proud labrador owner or simply a lover of great dog stories, we hope this list has provided some golden (or should we say, yellow, chocolate, or black!) entertainment for your next movie night.

Have we missed any of your favorite Labrador moments on screen? Let us know in the comments below! We're always happy to celebrate these amazing dogs.

If movies with dogs are your favorite to watch with your family, we have gathered a list of Golden Retriever movies to watch next, check them out here!

 

Goodies For A Fun Labrador Movie Night

There are 3 categories of Labrador goodies we believe will make your family movie night spectacular. Popcorn and snacks, undoubtedly, is on the top of the list, but we want to show you items that will last longer. Read on to see what we have curated for you!

1. Dress Up With A Personalized Labrador Name T-Shirt, Sweatshirt or Pajama Pants

We have a wide variety of Labrador t-shirts and sweatshirts to match-up with certain seasons & festivities - Halloween, fall, Christmas, evergreen designs. Click on the links in the heading to go to a specific product or check out the whole Labrador owner clothing collection here.

2. Grab a Cozy Labrador Fleece Blanket

When summer slowly turns into Autumn, we tend to spend more time inside. If you are like me, this is the perfect season to spend evenings cozied up on the couch with a warm fleece Labrador blanket for a movie binge session.

3. Prepare Drinks In The Labrador Whiskey Tumbler or Can Glass

Labrador whiskey glasses have been our bestseller for many years now. It turns out husbands and boyfriends were lacking of options for gifts and we didn't need to be asked twice to come up with something fitting for the best dog dad gift. We offer mugs, rocks glasses and can tumblers with lids and straws. Great option for a movie night drink! Pour it in and enjoy!

We ship worldwide, including the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, so every lab owner can wear their pride!