Shubhabrata Dutta
“Humans are better than dogs,” said no one ever. Only those who have known the love and loyalty of a dog will truly know what unconditional love is. Every once in a while, a dog movie comes out; it may be adventurous or a family drama, but all of these movies prove how amazing dogs can be and show us why dogs are known to be “a man’s best friend.” If you have a dog, you’ll know what it’s like to snuggle with your furry little best friend, but what’s even better is snuggling with that furry friend and watching a movie about other snuggly, warm creatures that make you realize how lucky you are to have such a blessing in your life. You can’t take your dog to the movies, but you can watch many great films with them on Netflix from the comfort of your home.
14. Pets United (2019)
‘Pets United’ is an animated adventure film directed by Reinhard Klooss. The plot revolves around a feisty stray dog named Roger who joins forces with Belle, a pampered house cat, to save their city from a robot takeover. To save their city from impending disaster, Roger and Belle join forces with other animals to overcome obstacles and unite against the common enemy. While delivering laughter and excitement for viewers of all ages with its stunning animation and thrilling sequences, the film touches upon themes of unity among diverse individuals and emphasizes the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. You can watch the movie here.
13. Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021)
Walt Becker’s ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog’ is a live-action/computer-animated movie focusing on the relationship between a middle-school misfit, Emily Elizabeth (Darby Camp), and Clifford, a red Vizsla puppy she brings home one fine day. She gives Clifford all the love, and it works like magic, making the dog bigger and bigger. This alerts a scientific facility that decides to bring the dog in for experiments. While Clifford’s naughtiness takes the whole neighborhood by storm, Emily wonders how to keep him safe from those intending to use him for their nefarious purposes. A fun-filled ride for everyone of all ages, ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog’ can be streamed here.
12. Marmaduke (2022)
Helmed by Mark A.Z. Dippé, this animated adventure-comedy film centers around the lovable and clumsy Great Dane named ‘Marmaduke.’ Based on the beloved comic strip Brad Anderson and Paul Anderson created, this cinematic adaptation brings the Great Dane’s hilarious adventures to the big screen. As he navigates his way through various escapades in his suburban neighborhood alongside his nemesis Zeus, an arrogant cream-colored Afghan hound, we are taken on a lighthearted journey filled with laughter and heartwarming moments that remind us of the joys and challenges of owning a large dog like ‘Marmaduke .’Pete Davidson gives his voice to the titular character, J.K. Simmons lends his voice to Zeus, and David Koechner portrays Phil Winslow, the patriarch of the Winslow family and Marmaduke’s caring owner. You may watch the film here.
11. Dog Gone Trouble (2019)
‘Trouble’ is a heartwarming animated adventure-comedy film directed by Kevin Johnson. This film revolves around a mischievous yet lovable dog named Trouble, whose comfortable life in the lap of luxury gets disrupted after the death of his beloved owner. As ‘Trouble’ embarks on an adventure through bustling city streets, he encounters various challenges and forms unexpected friendships along the way. With the film’s captivating storytelling and charming portrayal of a man’s best friend, viewers are taken on a delightful journey filled with laughter, excitement, and touching moments. Feel free to check out the film here.
10. White Fang (2018)
‘White Fang’ is an adaptation of the famous timeless novel written by Jack London. It tells the story of a wolf-dog and his adventures of living with three different masters. The story of white fang has touched many hearts through the years, and this evergreen classic will do so forever. This film adaptation of the story does a great job with visuals, connecting you with the main character and the beautiful soundtrack. ‘White Fang’ is not just a movie for kids but for adults as well, and it will leave you on the verge of tears by the end. You can check out the movie here.
9. Benji (2018)
We just can’t get enough of this cute little mystery-solving dog, and clearly, neither can Hollywood because they keep recreating versions of it even after all these years. The plot of this one is very similar to the first movie that came out in the early 70s. Benji befriends two young kids, and later, when the two kids are kidnapped, Benji goes out to rescue them. This may be a remake of a classic, but it still manages to move you as much as the first one and will surely leave you in tears. You can watch ‘Benji’ here.
8. The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
Directed by Chris Renaud, ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ shows what pets do after their owners leave for work or whatever else they leave home for. At the story’s center is a duo of domesticated canines, Max, a Jack Russell Terrier, and Duke, a Newfoundland, who get caught by Animal Control after being attacked by a gang of stray cats. Although they are rescued by a white rabbit named Snowball, the leader of a gang of drain-dwelling animals bent on revenge on the humans who abandoned them, Max and Duke have to prove their loyalty before being recruited. However, is getting recruited a good thing? Meanwhile, the duo’s friends launch a search for them. With a talented voice cast that includes Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet, Kevin Hart, and Jenny Slate, ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ is a family-friendly, funny movie perfect for a laid-back weekend. It can be streamed here.
7. June & Kopi (2021)
Directed, co-written, and produced by Noviandra Santosa, ‘June & Kopi’ is a family comedy film that stars Acha Septrias, Ryan Delon, and Makayla Rose Hilli. The story revolves around a stray dog who accidentally meets a graphic designer named Aya while running away from a group of naughty children who are traumatizing her for fun. After saving his new canine friend, Aya takes it to her home, where the dog meets Kopi. Although Aya’s husband initially sends the dog back to a shelter, after a series of events, she has to bring her back. The stray dog is later named June and slowly learns to adapt to her new conditions and deal with her trauma under Aya’s watchful eyes. You may watch ‘June & Kopi’ here.
6. Seventeen (2019)
‘Seventeen’ is a heartwarming family drama directed by Daniel Sánchez Arévalo. Set in the picturesque countryside of northern Spain, the film tells the story of Héctor, a troubled teenage boy who escapes from his youth detention center and embarks on a journey to find Oveja, a dog he met and bonded with at an animal rescue center. Alongside Héctor is his loyal and mischievous elder brother Ismael, who aids him in this quest full of unexpected encounters and adventures. The film stars Biel Montoro as Hector and Nacho Sanchez as Ismael, delivering remarkable performances that capture the essence of their characters’ profound connection. You can stream the film here.
5. Megan Leavy (2017)
This is the true story of United States Marine Corporal Megan Leavey and her K9 partner Rex, who served two tours in Iraq (2005 and 2006). Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the film explores the friendship and love that the two shared, albeit Leavey had to work a lot on Rex and his rage before deployment. After both were wounded in an IED blast during their second tour, Leavey received the Purple Heart and sought to adopt Rex, an undertaking that took her more than four years, from 2007 to 2012. In the film, Kate Mara plays Megan Leavey. The real Megan Leavey also plays the part of a drill instructor in the film. You can watch ‘Megan Leavy’ here.
4. Dog Gone (2023)
‘Dog Gone’ is a family-drama film directed by Stephen Herek, based on a true story. The film follows Fielding Marshall (Johnny Berchtold), a college senior searching for his pet golden retriever, Gonker, suffering from Addison’s disease. When Gonker goes missing, Fielding and his dad, John Marshall (Rob Lowe), are forced to hike the Appalachian trail to find the pup, as he needs his life-saving shot of medication to survive. The father-son duo’s journey to find their dog eventually helps to mend their broken relationship. You can stream ‘Dog Gone’ here.
3. Chillar Party (2011)
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and Vikas Bahl, ‘Chillar Party’ is a Hindi movie that follows a group of kids who join forces and stage a protest to save their neighborhood street dog Bhidu after a scheming politician decides to get rid of dogs around residential buildings. A fun and heartwarming movie with a strong message, ‘Chillar Party’ is a recipient of the 2011 National Film Award for Best Children’s Film. The child actors include Vishesh Tiwari, Sanath Menon, Naman Jain, Chinmai Chandranshuh, Vedant Desai, and Shriya Sharma. You can watch ‘Chillar Party’ here.
2. Rescued by Ruby (2022)
‘Rescued by Ruby’ is about a state trooper named Dan who forms an unlikely bond with his rescue dog Ruby. He wants to join the K-9 unit with Ruby, but Ruby’s naughty and wild nature makes it hard to calm her and train her for the task. Though many give up on Ruby, Dan decides to work with the sweet dog resiliently towards achieving his goal. A feel-good tale of the love between a man and his pet and an ode to the loyal creatures that dogs are, ‘Rescued by Ruby’ is a must-see for animal lovers. You can watch it right here.
1. Vicky and Her Mystery (2021)
Denis Imbert’s ‘Vicky and Her Mystery’ is a family drama that recounts loss and overcoming personal obstacles. Stéphane is a middle-aged man who has recently lost his wife and is dealing with the emotional trauma that comes with the loss of a loved one. He decides to live in the mountains for peace with his daughter Vicky, who has sadly stopped talking. Without his knowledge, she adopts a dog named and names it mystery. But Vicky keeps her canine friend a secret from others, and the two slowly develop a powerful bond over time. You can check out the film here.
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