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Imagine curling up on the couch with your dog, ready to dive into adventures that honor the bond between humans and dogs. Among the plethora of options, finding the best dog movies to watch with your furbaby can take up a lot of your time.
Therefore, I’ve curated a list of the most heartwarming, tail-wagging dog movies ever made.
Right from old classics like Old Yeller and Lady and the Tramp to true stories like Eight Elbow, I’ve added all the critic-acclaimed movies in different categories to this list.
These movies are special because they show how awesome dogs can be as friends and heroes. Rest assured, there are a lot of heartwarming movies that you don’t want to miss out on!
Note: I have tried adding official movie trailers. However, I couldn’t find the official trailers for some of the movies below, but they are directly available on the streaming platforms.
30 Best Dog Movies to Watch in 2024 [Editor’s Choice]
Here are the top 10 best dog movies that I have loved the most from this list of 30 Movies that you should watch in 2024. The table features their category and IMDb rating, along with the movie names.
| Sr. No. | Best Dog Movies | Category | Streaming Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Old Yeller | Classic Dog Movies | Disney+ |
| 2. | Lassie Come Home | Classic Dog Movies | Netflix |
| 3. | 101 Dalmatians | Animated Dog Movies | Disney+ |
| 4. | Lady and the Tramp | Animated Dog Movies | Disney+ |
| 5. | Homeward Bound | Comedy dog movies | Netflix |
| 6. | Eight Below | Comedy dog movies | Disney+ |
| 7. | Beverly Hills Chihuahua | Dramatic Dog movies | Disney+ |
| 8. | Marley & Me | Dramatic dog movies | Netflix & Disney+ |
| 9. | Hachi: A Dog’s Tale | Dog Movies Based on True Stories | Netflix |
| 10. | My Dog Skip | Dog Movies Based on True Stories | Prime Video |
Dramatic Dog Movies
Dramatic dog movies usually have touching stories about being loyal, good friends, and the strong connection between people and their dogs. They make you feel a lot and teach important lessons.
1. Hachi: A Dog’s Tale
| Ratings | 8.1/10 |
| Available On | Netflix |
| Language | English |
On his way home, Professor Wilson comes upon a lost Akita pup. Despite his wife’s disapproval, Hachi wins over everyone in the family and becomes Parker’s closest friend.
A wonderful relationship develops as their bond gets stronger. This movie has all the drama you need to feel a bit closer to your dog.
2. My Dog Skip
| Ratings | 7.0/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
Analogous to Because of Winn-Dixie, this film centers on a little child (played by Frankie Muniz) who transforms his life and breaks through his shell by getting a dog (Enzo, the adorable actor who played Eddie on Frasier).
This story is heartbreaking, yet it is a sweet and genuine story that inspires everyone to move forward in life.
Inspirational Dog Movies
These movies are about dogs facing tough times and learning important things. They really move people and teach us about life. Let’s see which of the best ones are added below.
3. Benji
| Ratings | 6.3/10 |
| Available On | Netflix |
| Language | English |
This story is about a courageous little dog who becomes a hero due to his brave choices. Benji, a tough little dog without a home, turns into a hero by saving two children who were taken away.
His smart and brave actions make everyone in the town and people watching the movie love him.
4. Because Of Winn-Dixie
| Ratings | 6.3/10 |
| Available On | Disney+, Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This story is about a small and lonely girl in a village-like town who adopts a dog named Winn-Dixie. This leads to unplanned friendships and bonds.
The dog’s existence helps everyone in the movie heal broken relationships and brings people together, showing the power of kindness and companionship.
Classic Dog Movies
Let’s get into the movie recommendations with the best classic dog movies of all time. Here are two of the best classic dog movies that never disappoint.
5. Old Yeller
| Ratings | 7.2/10 |
| Available On | Disney+ |
| Language | English |
Jim Coates leaves his wife Katie (Dorothy McGuire) and kids Travis and Arliss behind on their Texas ranch while he goes on a cattle drive.
Travis tries to chase away Old Yeller, a stray dog who is causing harm to one of their farms. But as Old Yeller defends Arliss during a bear attack, Travis and Katie grow to like him.
When Travis and the courageous and devoted dog get closer, worries about a rabies breakout intensify.
6. Lassie Come Home
| Ratings | 7.1/10 |
| Available On | Netflix |
| Language | English |
Due to financial strains, little Joe Carraclough’s parents sold their cherished dog, Lassie, and gave the Duke of Rudling in a small Yorkshire village throughout the Great Depression.
Elizabeth Taylor, the duke’s granddaughter, notices that the collie misses her previous owner after the dog is brought to the royal Scottish estate and lets her go.
The devoted dog starts out on her long journey to reunite with her cherished family, encountering both small kindnesses and enormous threats along the way.
Animated Dog Movies
Animated dog movies are great for watching with family. They are fun and make you feel good, with characters everyone loves. Here are two animated dog movies that people of all ages will enjoy.
7. 101 Dalmatians
| Ratings | 5.7/10 |
| Available On | Disney+ |
| Language | English |
The story of the movie centers on a group of fifteen Dalmatian pups that are abducted by the obnoxious socialite Cruella De Vil, who plans to use their fur for clothing.
In an attempt to save the pups from Cruella, their parents, Pongo and Perdita, embarked on an across-the-nation rescue operation.
Along the way, they saved eighty-four more puppies, increasing the total number of Dalmatians to one hundred and one.
8. Lady And The Tramp
| Ratings | 7.3/10 |
| Available On | Disney+ |
| Language | English |
This beloved Disney animated film centers on Barbara Luddy’s character, Lady, a spoilt cocker spaniel whose luxurious existence disappears when her owners adopt a child.
After some stressful events, Lady ends up on the run and in the street, where she is taken in by the rugged stray mutt Tramp and given protection. The two canines start to develop a romantic relationship.
Adventure Dog Movies
Adventure dog movies let you enjoy exciting outdoor stories while staying at home.
These movies show dogs in wild places, dealing with tough situations and solving problems. Here are two of these movies that are really exciting to watch.
9. Homeward Bound
| Ratings | 6.9/10 |
| Available On | Netflix |
| Language | English |
Though there are other versions of this story, this is my favorite. Two dogs and a cat face multiple chaotic events after being split up from their newly relocated owners.
Specifically, in an attempt to get their cherished owners home, a humorous Himalayan cat, an experienced golden retriever, and an energetic American bulldog set off on an adventurous journey through the Sierra Nevada mountains.
10. Eight Below
| Ratings | 7.3/10 |
| Available On | Disney+ |
| Language | English |
Though there are numerous films about brave dogs, this one starring Paul Walker is interesting to see.
Eight dog sleds are abandoned on a rescue operation in Antarctica and must battle to find a way back to their homes.
Comedy Dog Movies
The following dog movies will definitely make your stomach ache with numerous laughs and ultimate comic timings.
11. Beverly Hills Chihuahua
| Ratings | 3.9/10 |
| Available On | Disney+ |
| Language | English |
In this tale of Chihuahuas. a well-mannered Beverly Hills dog that goes missing in Mexico gets into dog fights as she searches for love and her way back home.
Despite being silly, the movie has multiple sequels that keep you hooked on the storyline and offer many laughs.
12. Marley & Me
Because of its big-budget celebrity cast, The First gives the impression of being a rom-com, but you’ll need to bring Kleenex. It follows newly married couple Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston as they reach significant life milestones together.
Dog Movies Based On True Stories
Dog movies that are based on real occasions often feel more emotional and meaningful. Here are some well-liked dog movies that are true stories.
13. The Adventures Of Milo And Otis
| Ratings | 6.9/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
In a fun movie with Dudley Moore’s voice, a curious cat named Milo and a friendly pug named Otis become friends.
Milo ends up floating down a river in a box, and together, they go on a big adventure that even includes meeting a bear.
14. Balto
| Ratings | 7.1/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This thrilling animated adventure movie is based on the true story of a brave dog.
Despite some fierce rivals, a brave misfit dog stands up to ensure the mission is completed when a small community needs life-saving medication during an extreme winter storm.
Family-Friendly Dog Movies
For family movie nights or relaxing weekends, there are some really great dog movies that everyone loves. Here are two of the best ones:
15. Beethoven
| Ratings | 5.7/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This movie follows the story of the exploits of a devoted St. Bernard, which led to the creation of seven more movies and an animated series.
In the movie, the Newton family resides in a cozy house, but something doesn’t appear to be there. When a little puppy ‘Beethoven’ enters their lives, it fills this “hole.” Beethoven develops into a massive dog—a St Bernard. The local veterinarian target him to be tested in his side business.
16. Air Bud
| Ratings | 5.3/10 |
| Available On | Disney+, Prime Video |
| Language | English |
The first movie in a series about athletic dogs who are good at football, soccer, and other sports was this one about a dog who plays basketball.
There’s also the video series Air Buddies, in which puppies assist Santa, play sports, and travel to space.
Dog Movies For Adults
Unfortunately, not all dog movies are kid-friendly and have stories that are classified for adults. Here are two of them:
17. The Art Of Racing In The Rain
| Ratings | 7.6/10 |
| Available On | Disney+ |
| Language | English |
In this film, Enzo shares his experiences and the things he learned from his owner and friend, Denny Swift, who is a race car driver.
This story is shown from Enzo’s perspective, which specifically focuses on his close bond with Denny and his learning from human life.
18. A Dog’s Purpose
| Ratings | 7.2/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This movie revolves around Bailey, the dog who lives through multiple life experiences by contributing to the lives of different owners.
Through each life, Bailey understands purpose, love, and the unbreakable bond that humans and their dogs share. It leads the dog to a touching disclosure about life’s meaning.
Historical Dog Movies
These movies are set in historical contexts, offering a glimpse into the past through the adventures of dogs.
19. A Dog Named Christmas
| Ratings | 7.4/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video, Apple TV. |
| Language | English |
This follows a young man who loves helping animals. Further in the movie, he faces some learning challenges trying to get his family and everyone in their small town to come together and join a local shelter’s first-ever event called “Adopt a Dog for Christmas Program.”
In this event, After selecting an amiable yellow lab, he calls him “Christmas.” For the entire family, bringing Christmas home turns out to be an incredible experience.
20. Greyfriars Bobby
| Ratings | 7.2/10 |
| Available On | Disney+, Prime Video. |
| Language | English |
This heart-touching film is based on a real-life story about a Skye Terrier breed dog named Bobby. He stays by his owner’s grave for 14 years in 19th-century Scotland. It’s a touching example of incredible loyalty and love that lasts even after death.
Fantasy Dog Movies
These movies have dogs in amazing, make-believe stories that are really fun and imaginative. They are some of the best movies where dogs go on magical adventures.
21. The Secret Life Of Pets
| Ratings | 6.5/10 |
| Available On | Netflix, Prime Video |
| Language | English |
Everybody wonders what happens to their pets while we’re not there, and it turns out that these lovable NYC pets lead busy lives.
If you would like to run a movie marathon, there is also a lovely sequel. The story revolves around a terrier named Max; it’s a fun movie showing the secret world of pets.
22. Isle Of Dogs
| Ratings | 7.8/10 |
| Available On | Disney+, Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This movie is full of big star cast members, including Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, comedian Bill Murray, and Jeff Goldblum, among other voices of the dogs.
As the storyline goes, the dogs find themselves evacuated on a remote island due to a dog flu epidemic in this stop-motion Wes Anderson production.
Dog Movies With Life Lessons
These movies tell dog stories that teach us important things and stay in our minds for a long time.
23. Turner & Hooch
| Ratings | 6.2/10 |
| Available On | Disney+, Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This enjoyable movie full of plot twists shows a detective (played by Tom Hanks) teaming up with a very slobbery dog to investigate a murder.
It was released during the peak of the popularity of buddy cop comedy movies, which certainly brought a lot of likes to the movie.
24. Cujo
| Ratings | 6.1/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This isn’t a film that will benefit you if you like your puppies to be fluffy and adorable. It includes all sorts of drama and thrilling action.
The Stephen King movie is solely intended for fans of horror films and is about a rabid and outraged St. Bernard. You might enjoy it if you like watching beasts and blood everywhere.
Culturally Significant Dog Movies
Culturally significant dog movies are famous for how they’ve influenced culture and are very well-known among dog movies. So, if you want to enjoy watching such movies, here are two recommendations:
25. All Dogs Go To Heaven
| Ratings | 6.7/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video, HBO max |
| Language | English |
1980s cartoons were deep experiences. Charlie, the owner of a dog casino, is initially transported to heaven after being betrayed by his business partner.
However, Charlie manages to slip away and makes his way back to Earth to seek revenge, but all before meeting a little orphan girl who offers him some hope for forgiveness.
26. Frankenweenie
| Ratings | 6.9/10 |
| Available On | Disney+, Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This is possibly the most adorable zombie movie you’d ever watch. In this stop-motion adaptation of the Frankenstein story, the main characters are a young Victor Frankenstein and his beloved pet.
Plus, this movie also involves other kids along with the main character, who chaotically attempts to do the same as Victor.
Dog Movies With Human-Dog Relationship Focus
Dog movies with a focus on human-dog relationships show the strong connection between people and dogs and how deep their friendships are. The following movies will also resonate with you if you are a dog parent.
27. Red Dog
| Ratings | 7.3/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video, Netflix |
| Language | English |
The story of Red Dog is based on a true story. This story revolves around a charming dog in Australia who ends up uniting an entire community.
He shows them how to follow ethics like loyalty while following his positive yet adventurous spirit.
28. Max
| Ratings | 6.6/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
Max is a brave dog who devotedly served his handler in Afghanistan; the story is based on actual events.
Max is transported to live in the United States together with his handler’s family when his handler is killed in a shootout, where he assists in uncovering shady activities.
Dog Movies With A Twist
These movies tell unique dog stories in a new and different way.
29. Dogville
| Ratings | 8.0/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This film, although not a typical dog movie, cleverly uses a dog as a symbol to explore different themes in a small American town.
It’s an interesting movie that really makes you think and breaks the usual way stories are told.
30. Pick Of The Litter
| Ratings | 7.6/10 |
| Available On | Prime Video |
| Language | English |
This documentary follows five puppies as they train to grow into becoming guide dogs. These guide dogs are for blind people. The documentary is the cutest dog story on film ever.
Related Read:
Conclusion: #1 Hachi Is My Personal Favorite Dog Movie
From Old Yeller to the cute dog documentary Pick of the Litter, we looked at some of the best dog movies.
Since they’re all from different categories, some are old favorites, some are based on real stories, and others are just fun or teach us something.
These movies show us how special the friendship between people and dogs can be. They’re all really good in their own way and worth watching.
Which movies are you adding to your watch list? Also, let me know your favorite movies that I might have missed!
FAQs
Toto, from the 1939 movie Wizard Of Oz, is the most famous movie that has been liked by fans worldwide.
Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” movie is based on the 1987 Japanese film by Kaneto Shindo, “Hachikō Monogatari.” It’s about a real dog named Hachikō who lived in Japan from 1923 to 1935.
There are several wonderful and touching dog movies on Netflix, ranging from June & Kopi to Rescued By Ruby. For both dog owners and animal enthusiasts, dog movies on Netflix provide a delightful kind of enjoyment. The world is infatuated with these adorable animals.
