Dog Movies: 10 of the best movies to watch while you stay in

With so many of us practicing social distancing and self-quarantining, we have a lot of time on our hands. And these are the best dog movies to watch while you stay in.

Do you need something to get your mind off of things happening in the world? Maybe you are looking for a great movie with a dog as one of the main characters? Luckily we understand and have some dog movies that we think are perfect for watching while you stay home (whether by yourself or with family).

There are a lot of movies featuring our favorite furry friends, but some movies are better than others, especially when you are looking for an escape. And thankfully these dog movies not only keep us entertained, but give us exactly what we all love – dogs!

1. Secret Life of Pets

While the Secret Life of Pets is an animal inclusive film, it really does hit the mark as one of the best dog movies out there. With Max telling us all about his life as a dog in New York City, we get to meet his friends and of course, his new adopted brother. There are shenanigans and adventures, and of course too much cuteness to count.

And the fact that Secret Life of Pets has a sequel, means that we get double to doggy goodness if we decide to watch these movies back to back. Seriously, the original is my favorite, but that second one hit home in a way that made me a bit emotional (in a good way, I swear).

 2. A Dog’s Purpose

I swore to myself I wouldn’t put any movies on this list that were overly emotional, but it would be a disservice to not include A Dog’s Purpose to this list. As far as dog movies go, this might just be a perfect offering.

We get to see the journey of a dog as he reincarnates multiple times in an effort to fulfill his purpose in life. And what is his purpose? To be there for the humans in his life and offer his unconditional love and support of course. This movie is moving in the very best way, and even as I found myself crying repeatedly, it was also a cathartic experience.

A Dog’s Purpose will leave you hugging your pup more than ever. And there is nothing wrong with that at all.

3. 101 Dalmatians

I grew up watching Disney’s animated 101 Dalmatians and there is no doubt that it is a classic. And the fact that there are sequels and live-action movies means that I am not the only one obsessed with this movie and story. (In fact, I even had all the companion books that Disney released.)

Give me a movie with hundreds of dogs and I am there. And make it mostly puppies and you have my heart for life. This will always be my go-to comfort movie and one that I will watch as often as I possible can.

4. Lady and the Tramp

Another Disney classic, Lady and the Tramp gives us the tale of a street pup and a house pup who meet and fall in love. It’s a story as old as time, and yet by telling it with the use of adorable pups, we get a movie that we can’t help but love.

Whether you choose to watch the animated movie or the new live-action, this is one of those movies that seems to have it all – some action, some adventure, a love story, and puppies! It doesn’t matter how old you are, Lady and the Tramp will always be a beautiful movie that everyone in the family can enjoy.

5. Frankenweenie

Don’t judge me for this one, but I have to admit that Frankenweenie is one of my guilty pleasures. There is just something about this movie that you can’t help but love. Who else wishes they could bring back a beloved pet that has passed away? In this movie, we get to see what would happen if we really could bring back our fur babies.

This supernaturally charged animated comedy is classic Tim Burton and yet it is also a lot of fun. If you haven’t seen this one yet, you definitely need to (at least once).

6. Best in Show

We can all use a good laugh, and Best in Show delivers those laughs. While this movie is certainly an exaggeration of what happens at dog shows, having been to the Royal Canin AKC National Championship, I can tell you there is some truth to this story. But honestly, this movie is meant to make you laugh more than it is a statement of what you could expect from a true dog show.

Beyond the dogs that make this movie so much fun, it certainly helps that the cast is equally impressive. And with Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara as a dynamic duo, you know this movie is pure brilliance.

7. Dog Days

When it comes to dog movies, we have to give credit to ensemble offerings like Dog Days, which used dogs as a vehicle to bring an assortment of people together. While this may not have been a huge release, it was definitely an enjoyable story that more people should watch at least once.

Dog Days reminds us of just how amazing pups can be in our lives and how they can bring people together.

8. All Dogs Go to Heaven

Growing up I was obsessed with All Dogs Go to Heaven. This movie was sad, but hopeful and reminds me that even the baddest pup will find their way to the pearly gates. (There are no bad dogs!)

This movie may have been geared towards children, but in reality this story is perfect for people of all ages. And the fact that it offered plenty of humor and action too makes it an excellent choice for any movie night.

9. Beethoven

Another movie series I loved when I was a kid was Beethoven. While all of the movies are epic, the first will always be my favorite.

Who wouldn’t love a movie about a St. Bernard who is friendly, clumsy, and who will do whatever it takes to protect his family. Honestly, this movie was comedy gold with heart, and that makes it a gem.

If you haven’t seen this classic, you definitely want to give this a watch at least once. Not only will it make you laugh, but I guarantee it will make you wish you had your own St. Bernard at home.

10. Oliver and Company

Here is another childhood favorite that I think everyone should watch at least once. From the musical numbers to the story itself, Oliver and Company is so much fun.

This is an animated gem that always makes me sing and laugh, while throwing in a dash of tears every once in a while. And having a pack of dogs taking care of a kitten makes this story so cute that you can’t help but have all the happy feels.

When it comes to finding something to watch, there are plenty of options out there, and this is especially true when it comes to dog movies. Hopefully these 10 movies will get you started, and if you are looking for some more suggestions, you can also check out our list of animated movies (although some of these will be there as well) for some more options.