What’s almost as fun as playing with a puppy in real life? Watching a puppy on the big screen! Whether you want to laugh or cry, there is truly a dog movie for audiences of all ages. Love is at the center of Spot Pet Insurance’s core values and we focus on the joys of being a pet parent. We know your furry friend has made you love all dogs and there are many puppy characters to fall in love with through films.
Tear-Jerking Puppy Movies
When you think of dog movies, the common stereotype are heart wrenching tear-jerkers that will be sure to leave you squeezing your own pup tight. These are some of the most classic, well-known dog movies to date but warning – viewer discretion advised!
Old Yeller (1957): Perhaps the most classic dog movie of all time, “Old Yeller” follows the story of a young boy and his stray puppy who are the best of friends. It is a dog film laced with a coming-of-age story, followed by one of the most heartbreaking scenes in cinematic history. We strongly recommend grabbing a box of tissues before you press play.
Marley & Me (2008): Starring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson and often the first film to come to mind when thinking of modern-day dog movies, “Marley & Me” provides viewers with unconditional love and unimaginable heartbreak. It is one of the most classic dog and owner love stories but is definitely not for the faint of heart.
Lassie (2005): A remake of a classic, “Lassie” follows the lives of a family who is forced to sell their beloved collie because of financial troubles, and their love that transcends this new physical distance. It is definitely a tear-jerker but will make you appreciate your own furry friend even more.
A Dog’s Purpose (2017): “A Dog’s Purpose” follows a dog’s four lifetimes in which he discovers his reason for living and his effect on the people he comes in contact with. He lives with different owners and through different time periods who he teaches to both laugh and love.
Heartwarming Puppy Movies
Not all dog movies have to leave you in tears! There are plenty of feel-good, attention-grabbing films with dog protagonists that won’t leave you in a sad funk for days.
Best in Show (2000): This comical film follows the owners of five dog shows as they come together for a national competition with a film crew in tow, documenting the behind the scenes lives of these prestigious shows. It is highly competitive and without a doubt will leave everyone watching laughing.
Benji (2008): “Benji” is a reboot of a 1974 film and stars a lovable mixed-breed pup who has a talent of being at the right place at the right time. He is a stray dog that enjoys roaming freely around his Texas town where he’s made many beloved friends with the locals and ends up solving quite a few of their problems.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993): “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” follows two dogs’ and a cat’s quest to find their owners after they are left behind after they leave for vacation. They end up on an unexpected and wild journey that leaves you holding your breath, wondering if they will find their way home.
Eight Below (2018): A tale of a dogs’ friendship and loyalty, “Eight Below” follows scientists and their sled dogs’ journeys through an Antarctic expedition. They face horrible weather conditions and tragic accidents that test their strength and endurance. This movie will make you want to grab a blanket and appreciate your cozy couch.
Beethoven (1992): Following the life of a giant St. Bernard named, you guessed it, “Beethoven,” you’ll watch him wreak havoc in his home, escape dog kidnappers, and more. Beethoven has won over the hearts of viewers for years and is sure to win over yours as well
Puppy Movies for Kids
Dogs are a popular subject matter for children’s movies as well. These animated films are just as cute as the real thing and are the perfect thing to throw on your television if you’re in the need of some quick entertainment for your kids. Careful, they might start a lot of begging for a puppy in the following weeks!
Lady and the Tramp (1955): Disney is known for creating some of the most beloved dog movies ever made, and “Lady and the Tramp” is the blueprint. Its heartwarming storyline follows the great love story and adventures of Lady, a pristine and pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a stray mutt. It is a timeless classic that audiences of all ages have been enjoying for decades, and a must-watch for any child who loves pups.
101 Dalmatians (1961): Just as well-renowned and loved as “Lady and the Tramp,” “101 Dalmatians” is another timeless classic in the realm of Disney’s dog films. It follows owners’ quests to rescue their dalmatian puppies from the infamous villain Cruella De Vil and will be sure to leave your kids on the edge of their seats.
Bolt (2008): Also produced by Disney, “Bolt” is one of the most popular animated dog films. It is both comical and action-packed, starring a canine actor who believes his superpowers in his Sci-Fi television show are real and ends up embarking on a journey that puts them to the test. Not to mention it stars A-list celebrities including John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, and more.
The Secret Life of Pets (2016): Have you ever wondered what your pets do when you’re not home? This hysterical film will fill you in. From the same creators as “Despicable Me,” “The Secret Life of Pets” is sure to leave both you and your kids laughing as you watch pets try to save their owner in danger.
Hotel for Dogs (2009): Two siblings who are not allowed to take in pets begin to secretly house stray dogs in a local abandoned hotel in the beloved “Hotel for Dogs.” They create a gigantic shelter paradise as their stray collection grows and will leave your children wishing they could do the same!
Air Bud (1997): “Air Bud” stars a golden retriever who is not only adorable but also happens to be an all-star basketball player. Although a tad unrealistic, your kids won’t notice. It is followed by an extensive series in with Air Bud plays all different sports and even has puppies who embark on their own cinematic journeys.
For more information on the best products and pet-related activities to enjoy, visit Spot Pet Insurance’s webpage where we provide dog owners with all the pup-filled fun you could need. At Spot, we prioritize healthier pets and happier pet parents, and these films are a guaranteed boost of serotonin and hours of entertainment for all puppy owners.
Creative manager by day, pet enthusiast all the time! After 19 years with my dog (hopefully he wins the award for oldest pet in the world), I enjoy spending my days brainstorming tail-wagging content, and sniffing out the latest trends in the pet world.
