12 Dog Movies Every Dog Lover Should See

July 13, 2020

If you love stories that pull on your heartstrings and give you butterflies, you'll love dog movies. The special bond between dogs and their owners makes this genre more relatable than others. 

There are hundreds of movies starring these furry friends to enjoy, whether they're about the unbreakable bond between humans and dogs or crazy canine adventures. Keep reading for 12 of the best dog movies for your next movie night. 

Turner & Hooch

A classic released in 1989, Turner & Hooch features a detective who inherits a dog from his friend who passed away. The detective has a revelation when he realizes the dog may help solve his friend's murder, which leads him to adjust to life with his new canine crime solver. 

Despite the dog's unruly behavior and destructive nature, it is pivotal in getting justice for the detective's friend. 

Your family will learn to love this dog through his cute drooling problem and protective personality. For your next family movie night, Turner & Hooch is a thrilling option.  

Marley & Me

This movie from the late 2000s is relatable to almost every dog owner. It starts with a couple trying to figure out if they are ready to raise a family. As a test, the couple decides to adopt a dog, Marley. 

You'll find humor in Marley's adorable puppy adventures and love the caring role he plays in the family. However, the dog is so rowdy at times that he can't even participate in dog obedience courses. The end of the movie tugs at viewers' heartstrings. 

If you want to learn a lesson or two in loving your dog that proves they are truly family members, this movie is perfect. 

Lady and the Tramp

Searching for the perfect famous dog movie for date night with you, your partner, and your pooch? Lady and the Tramp is an excellent option. This classic, released in 1955, features a spoiled Cocker Spaniel who loses her privilege after her owners have a baby. 

Once she finds herself on the street, she befriends a stray mutt named Tramp. Despite their many differences and the family's effort to keep them apart, the two dogs begin to fall for each other. This movie explores many different societal issues, like the division between social classes, through the lens of two star-crossed canines. 

If you haven't watched this animated classic recently, turn it on and reminisce for your next romantic evening. 

Old Yeller

If you're looking for movies about dogs rich with drama, Old Yeller will not disappoint. The film takes place on a Texas ranch, where a wife and kids fend for themselves after the father has abandoned them.

One day, a rambunctious dog named Old Yeller damages the ranch. The family isn't keen about keeping the dog around. However, after a terrifying bear attack, the family begins to warm up to him. As Old Yeller and his family grow closer, the film shows how far a dog will go to save the ones he loves.

If you're going to watch this for your next movie night, make sure to bring a box of tissues. 

The Fox and the Hound

The Fox and the Hound came out in 1981 and continues to be a classic children's film. This inspiring story of friendship features a red fox and a hound dog. 

Initially, the two struggle to have a bond because they are enemies by nature. But the film shows how animals can overcome their differences.

The movie shows what makes for a strong friendship. When the hound dog's guardian, Chief, almost dies, it puts their friendship to the test. 

However, their love for each other overcomes all adversity. This story teaches children that love matters most. Even though the fox and the hound start as enemies, they learn to love each other for who they are. 

Check out the Fox and the Hound if you're looking for a movie with heartwarming lessons for the whole family.

The Adventures of Milo and Otis

The Adventures of Milo and Otis is an adorable Japanese film that came out in 1986. It features a small kitten named Milo, who has a habit of getting himself into trouble. During one of his adventures, Milo finds a pug named Otis, and the pair form an unlikely friendship. 

The two have many adventures, including one instance where Milo is playing in a box in the river and suddenly finds himself flowing downstream. However, the pair always finds a safe route out of their mischievous antics. 

For a unique film about the trials and tribulations of puppies and kittens, The Adventures of Milo and Otis is a good movie for you. 

My Dog Skip

My Dog Skip is the story of a friendship between a teenager and his dog named Skip. 

Skip is remarkably talented, offering his owner help in unconventional ways. Throughout the movie, Skip helps his owner make friends and even get a girlfriend.

The movie takes a sudden turn after Skip suffers from an accident, but don't worry—he makes a full recovery.

This heartwarming story proves the adage about man's best friend is true. 

Homeward Bound

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a 1993 film that happens to be a remake of a 1963 film called the Incredible Journey. It features a rambunctious bulldog named Chance, who narrates the movie. 

Chance makes it known throughout the film that he doesn't want to be part of his family. He causes chaos any way he can, doing things as shocking as digging through his owners' wedding cake. 

This story is about growth and redemption. Chance has a fantastic journey as he transforms from a disobedient puppy to a calm and gentle dog. He eventually accepts his family and loves his life with them. 

For an inspiring family story, check out Homeward Bound. 

101 Dalmatians

If you haven't seen this 1996 classic, you need to line up 101 Dalmatians for your next movie night. It features Cruella De Vil, whose employer wants to use her dalmatians' skin to make a fur coat. 

However, some nice people save Cruella De Vil's dalmatians. They take care of the dogs and won't let them be victims of the evil Cruella. The generosity and love that shows how far people will go to save dogs will inspire you.

For movies about dogs with a happy ending, watch 101 Dalmatians. 

Benji

If you're searching for one of the best recent dog movies, Benji is a fantastic option. This movie tells the story of Benji, an orphaned puppy. His whole world changes when two school kids come up to Benji. They take him under their wings, and the group forms a strong relationship. 

When someone kidnaps these two kids, Benji makes it his mission to save them. Along the way, he shows fierce intelligence and even finds love on his journey. The dog shows incredible strength whenever he faces adversity.

For a new dog movie featuring an adorable and inspiring main character, watch Benji. 

All Dogs Go to Heaven

If you love animated fantasies or dramas and dog movies, then All Dogs Go to Heaven is the perfect flick. It features a canine casino owner named Charlie, who is the victim of a killer and canine gambler named Carface. 

With luck, Charlie gets permission to return from heaven to seek revenge on his murderer.

Once Charlie meets an orphan named Anne-Marie, however, his perspective starts to change. He realizes that there is more to his life than vengeance. This intense movie is perfect for any avid dog lover and proves that yes, all dogs go to heaven.

Iron Will

This 1994 adventure film features the life of a 17-year-old boy in 1917. After his father's tragic death, the boy decides to compete in an international dog-sled race with a hefty cash prize. 

Since the boy knows this money could save the family farm, he is willing to enter the race. He undergoes months of physical, spiritual, and mental training to prepare for this competition. By racing, he hopes to keep his father's legacy alive. 

The determination and energy he shows throughout the film are inspiring. When it comes time for the race, however, the teen faces immense pain and challenges. It is entirely up to him to win the race and make his dad proud. For one-of-a-kind, famous dog movies, watch Iron Will. 

Looking for the Best Canine Cinema?

If you and your family want the perfect movie to watch, a whole genre of dog movies exists for you to explore. Whether you want to heart-wrenching movie or a thrilling adventure film, at least one movie on this list is right for you. So next time you cuddle up for a movie, pick from this list. You are sure to find a new favorite for you and your pooch.

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