20+ Dog Movies Every Animal Lover Needs to See
You'll want to hug your own pup a little tighter after watching these.
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Dog-owners already know that watching your pup play can feel like your own personal movie. Something about the way our furry friends frolic with their favorite dog toys, get the zoomies in the backyard or do those sweet little sleep runs when they're having a dream just melts the heart. Animal-lovers know that there's just nothing like the stress relief and happiness boosting that comes from spending quality time with your pet, but when you want a real cinematic adventure, turn to one of these adorable dog movies to scratch that itch. Popular streaming services have animal-themed films that run the gamut from the emotional to the exciting featuring furry stars doing amazing (and awww-worthy) things. Whether you need a good option for family movie night, something light and fun for an indoor date night, or just a cute flick to have on in the background while you play with the kids, these movies featuring man's best friend are just the thing. Get in your coziest clothes, grab a tub of popcorn and queue up one of these films this weekend. There's something for everyone, no matter what your taste in screen time (and maybe your pup might like to play with a dog puzzle toy while you indulge?).
Marley & Me
Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson star in this heartfelt movie based on the popular book by John Grogan. They adopt a not-so-obedient Labrador named Marley, who they eventually learn to live with and love. Fair warning: Grab a box of tissues before you hit play.
Lady and the Tramp
You may remember this sweet Disney movie for its iconic spaghetti kiss scene, but so many other adorable hijinks make it one to watch. Grab the kids for a throwback movie night to introduce them to the classics.
A Dog's Journey
They say that dogs live to love us, and this movie proves it. As one old dog's soul prepares for the next adventure, he promises his owner something. Here's another one that will tug at your heartstrings, so keep your own furry friend close.
A Dog's Purpose
This touching movie, based on a book by W. Bruce Cameron, is guaranteed to bring you to tears. Over the course of several lifetimes, a dog learns his real reason for living when he shows people how to laugh and live life to the fullest.
The Secret Life of Pets
If you've ever thought about what your pets do while you're at work, let this hysterical flick give you some ideas. It's from the same the creators as Despicable Me, so you know you won't want to miss it.
Lady and the Tramp (live action)
Once you've finished the animated version, give the live-action remake a try. Disney reimagined the 1955 favorite about a lovable stray and a pampered house pet in living color to help you fall in love with it all over again.
101 Dalmatians (1996)
You already know how the tale (tail?) of lost puppies trying to escape an evil furmonger goes. This live-action version features an adorable litter of Dalmatian puppies on the run from Cruella De Vil, who's even creepier in the flesh.
One Hundred and One Dalmatians
If you've only ever seen the live-action version of the classic story about a gigantic litter of spotted puppies, the original is worth a watch. It's a classic, and should be part of every Disney-lovers' collection.
Isle of Dogs
This Wes Anderson movie takes place in the fictional Japanese city of Megasaki, at a time when every dog is exiled after a canine flu outbreak. The story follows a determined 12-year-old boy who sets off on a crazy adventure to bring back his dog, Spots. It's beautifully shot and features the signature zaniness that makes Wes Anderson films so beloved.
Dog Days
Anyone who's ever struck up a conversation with another dog owner on the street will recognize themselves in this romantic comedy starring Nina Dobrev, Vanessa Hudgens and Eva Longoria. It follows a bunch of dog owners whose lives end up intertwined thanks to their pups in a sweet, relatable story.
Benji the Hunted
They say cats and dogs don't get along, but when canine actor Benji finds himself lost in the wilderness, he also takes on a litter of cougar cubs. Watch as they go through a gripping journey to safety in this heartwarming throwback flick.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
When two dogs and a cat get can't come on their family's vacation, they worry they've been left behind. Their attempt to go find their owners leads them on a wild journey that will make you laugh, cry and hold your breath all the way home.
Eight Below
Grab a blanket and watch this tale of friendship and loyalty as three scientists on an Antarctic expedition struggle with harsh weather conditions and a horrible accident that forces them to leave their sled dogs behind. You might want to turn up the thermostat, too.
All Dogs Go to Heaven
This animated musical follows a dog who gets killed and decides to skip out on heaven in order to come back to Earth, get revenge, and help out an orphan girl. Consider it one of the cutest takes on heaven we've ever seen.
Beethoven
A giant (we're talking 185 pounds) but friendly St. Bernard named Beethoven causes a few disasters in his home. escaping dog-nappers and winning the hearts of the family he makes his own. You've never seen slobber until you've met Beethoven.
Bolt
John Travolta and Miley Cyrus star in this animated film about a movie-star dog named Bolt who thinks he actually has super powers in real life. It's electrifying (sorry, not sorry).
Beverly Hills Chihuahua
Gather the whole family and queue up this hilarious movie about a Chihuahua that gets dog-napped in Mexico. You'll recognize the voices of Drew Barrymore and George Lopez as the two main pups, while Jamie Lee Curtis also makes an appearance.
Lassie
The bond between a dog and his owner is something special — even when they're physically separated. In this heart-wrenching movie, a family is forced to sell their beloved collie due to money struggles, but their love remains strong. It's an oldie but goodie.
Because of Winn-Dixie
Based on the book of the same name by Kate DiCamillo, this movie is about a 10-year-old girl (played by AnnaSophia Robb) who adopts a dog named Winn-Dixie that helps her get more comfortable in her small town. If you have kids with a hard time fitting in, give this a try.
Amina is a product review writer and editor who worked as an editorial assistant in the Good Housekeeping Institute from 2018 to 2020, writing original content based on GH Lab experts' product testing and analysis. Amina graduated from Montclair State University with a B.A. in communication studies and journalism.
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