What is the Best Dog Movie of All Time?

 

Movies featuring relationships between dogs and people often evoke strong emotional responses, more so than films solely about human interactions. People tend to laugh, cry, or feel nostalgic when watching these stories, often connecting them to their own experiences with pets.

Even those who do not own dogs likely have a favorite dog movie. Throughout cinema history, dogs have played memorable roles across various genres, from comedies to dramas to silent films.

Here is a countdown of the best dog movie moments:

8. Beethoven

The St. Bernard from this early 1990s film charmed audiences with his lovable and slobbery personality. The movie followed the Newton family's experience of adopting a puppy that quickly grew into a large dog. While most family members loved Beethoven immediately, the family patriarch took time to warm up to him.

The film's success led to seven sequels, though the original cast appeared only in the first two movies.

7. Benji

This movie stood out for its unique storytelling from the dog's perspective. Benji, a local mixed-breed dog in a small Texas town, becomes a hero when his favorite children go missing. The dog actor, found in a California animal shelter, had a 14-year entertainment career.

6. Air Bud

On the surface, this film is about a dog who plays basketball, but it explores how dogs can positively impact human lives. The story centers on Josh, a shy boy who finds confidence through his relationship with Buddy, a dog with remarkable sports abilities.

The movie was inspired by a true story of a dog trained to play multiple sports.

5. The Fox and The Hound

This animated Disney film tells the story of a fox and a hound who become friends as young animals, later confronting the challenges of their different natures. The movie addresses themes of prejudice and friendship, with a memorable musical soundtrack.

4. The Artist

This Academy Award-winning film features Uggie, a Jack Russell Terrier who became famous alongside lead actor Jean Dujardin. Uggie's popularity extended beyond the film, including a published memoir.

3. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

This remake focuses on animal characters as primary protagonists. The story follows two dogs and a cat on a journey to reunite with their human family, featuring voiced characters with complex personalities and relationships.

2. Best in Show

A mockumentary-style film exploring the world of dog owners and their pets.

The film features multiple storylines focused on characters getting their pets ready for a notable dog show. Each dog owner introduced to the audience has distinctive and humorous traits.

The film lightly satirizes the extremes people go to for their dogs, while maintaining a positive and entertaining approach. It represents Christopher Guest's typical style and includes humor throughout.

1. Lassie Come Home  

Since its 1994 release, Lassie Come Home has been regarded as a classic dog movie. It is often watched for comfort or to highlight positive aspects of the world.  

Its influence has endured, leading to remakes, television series, and references in popular culture.  

It is considered a classic dog movie for its qualities.  

What is considered the best dog movie of all time?  

Discussions about dog movies can vary, and this list may not match everyone's views. However, it might help in finding a new favorite or revisiting an existing one.