In the midst of a busy week, sometimes all we need is a good dog movie.
They’ll make you laugh and they’ll make you cry, but most of all, dog movies will make you appreciate your pet more. If you’ve got the time, sit down with your pup and watch a couple of these special dog-centered films.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
In this film based off a 1961 novel, three lost pets — two dogs and one cat — embark on a crazy adventure to find a way home to their worried owners. While largely a children’s film, Homeward Bound still touched audiences with its charming portrayal of loyal and faithful pets.
Balto (1995)
Balto tells the heroic tale of a real-life sled dog who races against harsh weather to deliver life-saving medicines to a small Alaskan town. The film was unfortunately overshadowed by Disney movies at the time, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that children have a lot to learn from the one-of-a-kind wolfdog.
My Dog Skip (2000)
If you’ve ever wanted to see a tiny Frankie Muniz, this is the movie! My Dog Skip was originally an autobiographical book that was simply about a boy and his dog. In the film, we see a 9-year-old boy receive a Jack Russell for his birthday; the dog soon leads him through all the adventures that boyhood can offer, teaching him the value of friendship, loyalty, and love.
Because of Winn-Dixie (2005)
Based off of the children’s novel by Kate DiCamillio, this sweet film follows the story of a lonely 10-year-old girl who encounters a stray dog outside a supermarket. She names it Winn-Dixie and starts to enjoy her time in her new town as she learns all about making new friends.
Marley & Me (2008)
Watch Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson wrangle with the rambunctious dog that is Marley in this touching film about an unruly dog and the loving people around him. We get to see Marley take on the role of a family dog, as he grows with his family and accompanies them through various situations in life.
Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)
Grab the tissues because Hachi: A Dog’s Tale will definitely have you feeling things by the end of the movie. In the film, Hachi, a dog taken in by a professor, forms an everlasting bond with his owner, one that lasts through all the seasons. The movie was actually a portrayal of a real-life dog named Hachi, famous for his deep devotion and love.
A Dog’s Purpose (2017)
Adapted from the best-selling novel of the same name, A Dog’s Purpose had audiences worldwide bawling over its wholesome and pure-hearted story. In the film, we watch a curious dog be reborn as different dogs while finding the purpose behind each life he lives.
