Top 20 Movies About Dogs That Will Tug At Your Heartstrings

About this gallery:

For this list, we focused on movies where dogs are either the stars of the show or the central theme driving the plot. You’ll notice we’ve got everything from family-friendly kids’ movies to gut-wrenching tales of horror and heartbreak about our beloved furry friends.

Think we missed an essential dog movie? Don’t hold back – drop it in the comments and let us know!

20. The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

Ever wondered what your pets do when you’re not around? This movie takes that very curiosity and turns it into a whirlwind of humor, adventure, and adorable hijinks. Max, the spoiled terrier, has his cozy life upended when his owner brings home a slobbery, oversized rival named Duke. Throw in a psychotic bunny leading a rebellion of abandoned pets, and you've got yourself a paws-itively wild ride. From the creators of Despicable Me, it’s a love letter to the secret quirks of our furry friends – and proof that your dog really does have a busier social life than you do. | © Illumination Entertainment

19. Dog (2022)

Channing Tatum and an adorable Belgian Malinois take center stage in this heartfelt buddy road-trip film. As Army Ranger Briggs begrudgingly escorts Lulu (the dog) across the country to her handler’s funeral, the two form an unlikely bond. Equal parts hilarious and tear-jerking, it reminds us that dogs often have more emotional depth than most humans. Tatum’s directorial debut delivers a story about healing, friendship, and the occasional car seat mishap that’ll tug at your leash – I mean, heartstrings. | © Free Association & FilmNation Entertainment

18. Frankenweenie (2012)

Only Tim Burton could turn the tragic death of a beloved dog into a whimsical, stop-motion masterpiece. Frankenweenie is a spooky yet heartwarming tale about a boy who brings his dog, Sparky, back to life – Frankenstein-style. But when his science project spirals out of control, the neighborhood becomes overrun with quirky, monstrous creations. A gothic love letter to both classic horror and the bond between a kid and their dog, it’s perfect for dog lovers and Halloween fans alike. | © Walt Disney Pictures

17. Balto (1995)

Loosely based on a true story, Balto tells the tale of a half-wolf, half-dog outcast who becomes a hero by leading a life-saving serum run during an Alaskan snowstorm. With gorgeous animation and a story of bravery that howls at your emotions, it’s a must-watch for both kids and adults. Balto teaches us that even the scruffiest of underdogs can become a legend. Just try not to sob when he finally gets the recognition he deserves. | © Amblimation

16. Best in Show (2000)

What happens when you put neurotic dog owners, a high-stakes dog show, and Christopher Guest’s brilliant mockumentary style into a blender? Best in Show happens. This hilarious comedy pokes fun at the eccentric world of competitive dog shows, with a cast of oddball characters who are almost as entertaining as their pooches. The satire is razor-sharp, the dogs are adorable, and the humor hits home for anyone who’s ever obsessed over their pet just a little too much. | © Castle Rock Entertainment

15. Lassie (1943)

The queen of loyal pups, Lassie set the standard for all good boys and girls to come. This classic tale follows the brave collie as she embarks on a perilous journey to reunite with her young owner after being sold to a wealthy duke. Along the way, Lassie proves that true love and determination can overcome any obstacle – whether it’s treacherous rivers or snooty aristocrats. A timeless story that has endured for generations, Lassie is the original canine hero we all root for. | © Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

14. A Dog's Purpose (2017)

Get ready to laugh, cry, and hug your dog like never before. A Dog’s Purpose tells the reincarnation-filled journey of a dog who discovers his ultimate mission: bringing love and meaning to the lives of his owners. Whether he’s a scrappy mutt or a sleek retriever, Bailey (and his many incarnations) shows how dogs are more than just pets – they’re furry little philosophers with hearts of gold. Warning: watching this movie might require an entire box of tissues. | © Amblin Entertainment

13. Pick of the Litter (2018)

This heartwarming documentary follows five Labrador retriever puppies as they train to become guide dogs for the visually impaired. Watching these pups grow, learn, and sometimes struggle with their training is both inspiring and adorable. Not every dog is cut out to be a hero, but those who are will steal your heart – and your admiration. A behind-the-scenes look at the hard work and love that go into raising these remarkable service dogs, it’s a tail-wagging delight. | © IFC Films

12. Marley & Me (2008)

Marley, the world's most lovable troublemaker, brings chaos and heart to this unforgettable family dramedy. From eating everything in sight to crashing through screen doors, Marley tests the patience (and furniture) of his owners, played by Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston. But as the years pass, Marley becomes an irreplaceable part of their lives. Equal parts hilarious and gut-wrenching, this story reminds us that even the most mischievous dogs leave paw prints on our hearts forever. | © Fox 2000 Pictures

11. Wallace & Gromit Movies (1989-Present)

Gromit, the silent yet hilariously expressive dog, is the true star of Nick Park’s iconic claymation series. Whether he’s thwarting evil penguins, baking up a storm in A Matter of Loaf and Death, or handling cheese-related crises in The Wrong Trousers, Gromit proves time and again that he’s the ultimate canine sidekick. Clever, resourceful, and oddly relatable for a dog made of clay, Gromit’s loyalty to Wallace is matched only by his ability to save the day – usually without a single bark. | © Aardman Animations

10. The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019)

If you’ve ever wondered what your dog would say about your life, meet Enzo, a golden retriever with the soul of a philosopher. Narrated by Kevin Costner (because, of course), Enzo reflects on his life with his race car driver owner, Denny, while tackling love, loss, and the ultimate meaning of loyalty. This movie weaves a poignant tale that feels like Fast & Furious with fur – only with more emotional resonance and fewer explosions. Just be warned: tears are guaranteed, and Enzo might steal your heart along with your tissues. | © 20th Century Fox

9. Heart of a Dog (2015)

Laurie Anderson’s poetic and experimental documentary is less about dogs in the traditional sense and more about exploring life, death, and the love we share with our pets. Inspired by her late rat terrier, Lolabelle, Heart of a Dog takes viewers on a deeply personal and philosophical journey that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved (and lost) a furry friend. It’s a mesmerizing meditation on how dogs teach us to live fully and let go gracefully, all wrapped up in Anderson’s signature avant-garde style. | © Canal Street Communications

8. My Dog Tulip (2009)

Based on the memoir by J.R. Ackerley, this animated gem tells the unconventional love story between a lonely man and his devoted Alsatian dog, Tulip. It’s a brutally honest, sometimes laugh-out-loud depiction of what it truly means to care for a pet – warts and all. From Tulip’s eccentric behavior to her owner’s unwavering patience, the film celebrates the messy, unfiltered realities of canine companionship. Quirky, heartfelt, and unapologetically real, it’s a unique ode to the unconditional love of dogs. | © New Yorker Films

7. Togo (2019)

Move over, Balto – Togo tells the lesser-known but equally heroic story of the dog who braved impossible odds during the 1925 serum run. Willem Dafoe stars as Leonhard Seppala, the musher who relies on the tenacity and spirit of his aging sled dog, Togo, to save a remote Alaskan town from a deadly epidemic. With breathtaking visuals and a story that celebrates the unbreakable bond between human and dog, Togo is the ultimate underdog (or underdog-led) tale that deserves its place in history. | © Walt Disney Pictures

6. Marona’s Fantastic Tale (2019)

This visually stunning animated film takes viewers through the memories of Marona, a small dog reflecting on her life with a series of owners. Each chapter of her journey is brought to life with vibrant, dreamlike animation that feels like a storybook come to life. Equal parts whimsical and deeply emotional, Marona’s Fantastic Tale explores themes of love, loss, and what it means to truly belong. It’s a bittersweet masterpiece that celebrates the profound impact a dog can have on the lives they touch. | © Sacrebleu Productions

5. Lady and the Tramp (1955)

Few films capture the magic of puppy love like Lady and the Tramp. This classic Disney romance tells the tale of Lady, a pampered Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, a streetwise mutt with a heart of gold. From the iconic spaghetti kiss (cue the swooning!) to their adventures dodging dog catchers and sharing moonlit strolls, it’s a story that proves love knows no boundaries – especially when meatballs are involved. Sweet, timeless, and utterly charming, Lady and the Tramp will forever hold a special spot in every dog lover’s heart. | © Walt Disney Pictures

4. Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009)

Prepare your tear ducts – this one’s a doozy. Based on the true story of Hachiko, a loyal Akita who waited for his owner every day at a train station – even long after the man’s passing – this film is a tribute to the unshakable bond between humans and dogs. Starring Richard Gere and an unforgettable canine performance, Hachi: A Dog’s Tale is equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking. It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to hug your dog a little tighter and promise them you’ll never miss a walk. | © Stage 6 Films

3. One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961)

It’s a dog lover’s dream: 101 spotted pups escaping the clutches of the fabulously wicked Cruella De Vil. This Disney classic is a high-stakes adventure packed with humor, heart, and a whole lot of barking. Pongo and Perdita, the heroic Dalmatian parents, team up with a network of courageous critters to rescue their stolen puppies from being turned into a fur coat. Equal parts thrilling and adorable, this timeless tale is proof that villains may have style, but dogs have soul. | © Walt Disney Pictures

2. The Plague Dogs (1982)

A darker entry on the list, The Plague Dogs is an emotional gut punch that follows two laboratory dogs, Rowf and Snitter, as they escape a cruel research facility and struggle to survive in the wild. This animated adaptation of Richard Adams’ novel pulls no punches, exploring themes of animal cruelty and the resilience of the canine spirit. While it’s not for the faint of heart, it’s a powerful reminder of the strength and courage dogs can show – even in the face of unimaginable adversity. | © Embassy Pictures

1. Isle of Dogs (2018)

Wes Anderson’s meticulously crafted stop-motion masterpiece transports us to a dystopian Japan, where dogs have been exiled to Trash Island due to a mysterious outbreak. The story follows a young boy, Atari, as he journeys to the island to find his beloved dog, Spots, with the help of a ragtag group of canine misfits. Packed with dry humor, stunning visuals, and Anderson’s signature symmetry, Isle of Dogs is a quirky, heartfelt celebration of loyalty, friendship, and, of course, our four-legged companions. | © Indian Paintbrush