Our Favourite Dog Films
With Christmas nearly upon us, many of us will find ourselves snuggling with our loved ones in front of a great movie this year. At Harbour Hounds, we thought we should let our furry friends take the remote for a change as we count down our favourite dog movies of all time.
Loyal, joyful, and bursting with good spirit, dogs have taken the spotlight in cinema for years. That’s why we’ve listed off our stand-out movies that are centred around dogs, and why they could offer perfect viewing for any animal lover this holiday season.
Dog (2022)
The clue might be in the title, but this comedy centres around a canine (Lulu) that slowly forges a deep bond with an unexpected person. After she loses her owner to an accident in the military, Army Ranger Briggs is assigned to transport Lulu to the funeral in Arizona. This road trip tale has plenty of heart and reveals how much an animal can transform with the right care and companionship.
You can watch Dog on Amazon Prime.
Beethoven (1992)
We can’t speak for its endless direct-to-video sequels, but Beethoven remains a family pleaser to this very day. After finding love in a suburban family, the troublesome Beethoven becomes at risk of experiments from an evil vet. It may sound traumatic on paper, but this fun-filled caper remains a staple family comedy today. Plus, what’s not to love about a 185 lbs St. Bernard?
You can watch Beethoven on Netflix.
Rescued By Ruby (2022)
Netflix has introduced one of its first canine stars with Rescued By Ruby. This film follows the life of Dan, a state trooper that wants to join the K-9 unit in his team. He adopts Ruby, a shelter dog that has been returned by seven previous homes after unsuccessful placements and trains her to be a working dog. The movie highlights the co-dependence we have with our animals in a heart-warming and hilarious fashion.
You can watch Rescued By Ruby on Netflix.
101 Dalmatians (1961)
The classics never die, and the legacy of Cruella de Vil remains as widespread as ever. But a return to the original Disney film, 101 Dalmatians, has satisfying and nostalgic benefits. Whether it’s the iconic animation or the heartrending story of puppies trying to make their way home, this film stands the test of time as a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
You can watch 101 Dalmatians on Disney+.
Togo (2019)
Togo, a Siberian husky, becomes an underdog in this Disney Plus Original about the 1925 serum run. An untold true story, this movie exposes the breathtaking feats that a musher and his sledge dogs undertook in an attempt to save their town. Snowy, uplifting, and remarkably true, this picture is perfect for winter viewing. It also reinforces the popular belief that everyone loves an underdog, especially when it’s a gorgeous Siberian Husky.
You can watch Togo on Disney+.
Marley & Me (2008)
Marley might be known as ‘the world’s worst dog,’ but this film is often ranked as one of the best among many. Marley & Me stars Own Wilson and Jennifer Anniston as a couple that is attempting to manage family life while caring for a mischievous, destructive, yet loveable Labrador. We see the lifespan of the dog as well as the warmth and fulfilment that a pet can bring to a family.
You can watch Marley and Me on Disney+.
Lassie (2005)
A tale that dates back to 1940, Lassie is a retelling of a beautiful story of hope and persistence. When the rough collie gets sold because her family can no longer afford to care for her, Lassie goes on an incredible journey to return home. Whether it’s little Joe’s undying faith in Lassie or her epic pursuit of family life, this film pulls at all of the right heartstrings.
You can rent Lassie on Amazon.
Hotel For Dogs (2009)
Hotel For Dogs might be aimed at younger viewers, but the charm of this uplifting flick is undeniable. The film follows two siblings that transform an abandoned hotel into a hotel for stray dogs, using hilariously creative ways of looking after their ‘guests.’ Filled to the brim with almost every breed imaginable, this picture is a must-see for any dog lover that is howling for some fun.
You can rent Hotel For Dogs on Amazon.
Dog Days (2018)
Hotel For Dogs might be aimed at younger viewers, but the charm of this uplifting flick is undeniable. The film follows two siblings that transform an abandoned hotel into a hotel for stray dogs, using hilariously creative ways of looking after their ‘guests.’ Filled to the brim with almost every breed imaginable, this picture is a must-see for any dog lover that is howling for some fun.
You can rent Hotel For Dogs on Amazon.
Eight Below (2006)
Our final addition to this list is another winter tale of Siberian huskies making incredible achievements. Eight Below is inspired by a true story of sledge dogs that got left behind in Antarctica after disaster struck on a research trip. We follow researcher, Jerry Shepard, and his dogs in their attempt to reunite with each other again. The film serves as a welcome reminder of the survival instincts that our furry friends inherently have.
You can watch Eight Below on Disney+.
So now that Harbour Hounds has provided you with a pup-friendly watchlist, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a movie night with your dog by your side this festive season.
Merry Christmas!
Written by Scott Dickinson