Who wouldn’t guess that dogs make great actors? Every dog lover is thrilled to see the antics of pooches on screen who either do or do not talk. I love both dogs and movies; when the two combine, it’s magic on the screen. As long as the human actors do a good job, the movie will be box office gold.
Here are my favorite movies for dog lovers. You can watch them online, rent them at various businesses or purchase them online or in big box stores.
K-9 (1989)
Magnificent actor James Belushi plays a tough, no-nonsense cop. When circumstances force him to choose a partner for his case, he chooses Jerry Lee, a German Shepherd with PTSD, a short fuse and jaws strong enough to break a cue ball. Together, they take on the city’s drug problem like no other. This blockbuster inspired more movies with the pair, each wonderful and action-packed.
Turner & Hooch (1989)
Comedian Tom Hanks plays a meticulous detective who borderlines on OCD. He meets up with the only witness to a murder, a French Mastiff named Hooch who has no concept of keeping anything clean. This movie will make you laugh and cry; the end will bring both. This movie deserves to be in every movie collection.
The Ugly Dachshund (1966)
Walt Disney introduced a wonderful concept when he produced movies featuring animals. Mark Garrison is an average guy whose wife breeds and shows Dachshunds. His vet talks him into bringing home an orphan pup for the bitch to nurse. He adopts the dog, which turns out to be a Great Dane. Hilarity ensues as the dog has no idea he’s not little. This is a fun movie for all ages to enjoy any time of year.
Air Bud (1997)
When a lonely boy meets a stray Golden Retriever who turns out to have crazy basketball skills, the two become local celebrities. Unfortunately, the cruel former owner shows up and the fight for Buddy is on. You’ll cheer, laugh and cry for this amazing duo. Don’t forget to watch the sequel as well.
Marley & Me (2008)
This highly celebrated film follows a young couple who get a puppy instead of having children. Neither is prepared for the energy, destructiveness or loving madness associated with a Labrador Retriever. Marley takes over the household, growing into a full-fledged family member. Although a medical condition takes him in his old age, pet lovers know that the contribution to their lives is incalculable and irreplaceable. Two beautiful movies were made with the characters; both are highly recommended for family viewing.
Top Dog (1995)
America’s ultimate tough guy plays a loner cop forced to partner with a Briard who witnessed the murder of his human partner by terrorists. There is plenty of action, cars, guns, fights, fire and so forth in this funny movie. The dog does have a peculiar quirk- but I’ll let you find that out when you watch the movie. Norris doesn’t often play second fiddle to other actors, but this lovable pooch steals the show and Norris plays his part beautifully.
Beethoven (1992)
Most movies about families and dogs feature small, energetic canines. Beethoven is a St. Bernard, hardly small but loaded with plenty of drool and energy. Watch this lovable giant take the bad guys on one of the funniest sequences of the film. This dog was so successful, he has a total of four movies to his credit.
Marmaduke (2010)
This hilarious movie is based on the famous comic strip featuring a Great Dane, whose height, weight and big feet cause havoc wherever he goes. Although the dog was given a human voice in the film, this movie is cute and appropriate for small children. Even though movie critics were harsh in judging this film, I saw it as cute and funny. The children in the same audience loved it.
Benji (1974)
Several movies have been made with one of America’s favorite canine actors. He barked, had amazing facial expressions and stole the hearts of all who watched him on the screen. He was not a purebred; he was a shelter rescue. America was astounded to see a mutt with so much talent; adoptions hit record highs after the movie came out. In my heart, Benji still steals the show.
Lassie (1943)
The Collie known as Lassie is the most recognized canine in the world, and the star of several films. The phrase “…Go get help, Lassie!” has been engrained in our culture. The first movie will make you cry even though it is in black and white; the films only get better from there.
These movies should find their way into every dog and pet lover’s movie collection.
Source: The author of this article has over 40 years of experience in diverse subjects and skills such as DIY, home improvement and repair, crafting, designing, and building furniture, outdoor projects, RV’ing and a consummate movie fan.