The Best Dog Movies Of All Time (From a Cozy Dog Mom's Perspective)

Ah, winter. The time of year when the air is crisp, the blankets are fluffy, and your couch is basically calling your name. If you're anything like me, your ideal winter evening involves a big bowl of popcorn (for you) and a stash of dog-friendly treats (for your furry best friend). But what’s a cozy night without a great movie to pair with all that snuggling?

Lucky for us dog moms (and dads), there’s no shortage of heartwarming and laugh-out-loud dog movies to keep us entertained while we cuddle up with our pups. So grab your hot cocoa, pile on the blankets, and let’s dive into some of the best dog movies of all time. Here’s the lowdown—and whether or not you’ll need tissues!

1. Lady and the Tramp (1955)

You can’t go wrong with this Disney classic. Lady, the pampered Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, the charming street-smart mutt, give us all the feels as they share that iconic spaghetti dinner. Watching this movie with your dog will make you want to cherish every moment with them—even if they occasionally steal your food, just like Tramp.

Tissues Required? Nope! Just warm, fuzzy feelings all around.

Dog Mom Insight: My own pup always perks up during the dog park scenes. I’m convinced he thinks he’s the Tramp in his head, charming all the dogs with his rugged good looks.

2. Beethoven (1992)

Big dog, bigger heart. This St. Bernard’s antics make for laugh-out-loud moments that any dog owner can relate to. From stealing breakfast to slobbering on everything in sight, Beethoven reminds us that love sometimes comes with a lot of cleaning supplies.

Tissues Required? Nope! Just laughs and a happy ending.

Dog Mom Insight: Watching this makes me grateful my dog’s “chaos factor” is pint-sized. But hey, I’d gladly take the slobber if it came with Beethoven-level cuddles.

3. 101 Dalmatians (1961)

Another Disney masterpiece, this one is full of adventure and a whole lot of spots. Pongo and Perdita’s mission to save their puppies from Cruella de Vil is both suspenseful and heartwarming.

Tissues Required? Nope! This one’s all happy tails and heroic moments.

Dog Mom Insight: This movie is proof that dogs are the ultimate heroes. Also, who doesn’t secretly dream of having a house full of adorable puppies? (Okay, maybe just for a weekend.)

4. Bolt (2008)

A high-energy animated film about a super-dog who realizes he doesn’t actually have superpowers but learns he’s still a hero at heart. Bolt’s determination and love for his owner are paw-sitively inspiring.

Tissues Required? Nope! Just an action-packed, feel-good adventure.

Dog Mom Insight: My dog thinks he has superpowers too. Specifically, the ability to summon treats by staring at me intensely.

5. The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

Ever wonder what your pets do when you’re not home? This animated film hilariously imagines just that, with a lovable cast of characters led by a quirky little terrier named Max.

Tissues Required? Nope! Pure comedy and joy.

Dog Mom Insight: After watching, I gave my dog a side-eye and said, “You’ve been holding out on me, haven’t you?”

6. Balto (1995)

Based on a true story, this animated classic tells the tale of a brave sled dog who saves the day during a dangerous mission. It’s inspiring and a must-watch for dog lovers of all ages.

Tissues Required? Nope! This one’s heartwarming and triumphant.

Dog Mom Insight: Balto makes me want to believe my dog would save me in a blizzard. Realistically, he’d probably try to eat the snow.

7. Marley & Me (2008)

A movie about a mischievous Labrador retriever and the family that loves him through all of his shenanigans. It’s equal parts hilarious and deeply emotional, capturing the highs and lows of life with a dog.

Tissues Required? Yes. Lots of them. You’ve been warned.

Dog Mom Insight: If you’ve ever loved a dog, this one will tug at your heartstrings. Hug your pup tight after this one.

8. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

This one’s for the adventurers! Shadow, Chance, and Sassy (okay, fine, Sassy’s a cat, but she’s cool) embark on an epic journey to find their family. It’s heartwarming, funny, and proof that our pets’ loyalty knows no bounds.

Tissues Required? Maybe just a few for happy tears—the ending is so worth it!

Dog Mom Insight: Every time I watch this, I wonder what my dog would say if he could talk. Probably something like, “You’re the best human ever, but can we stop for snacks?”

9. Turner & Hooch (1989)

Tom Hanks + a drooling French Mastiff = comedy gold. This buddy-cop movie pairs a straight-laced detective with a very messy canine sidekick. Chaos (and plenty of laughs) ensues.

Tissues Required? Yes, but just a few. It’s a bittersweet ending with plenty of laughs along the way.

Dog Mom Insight: Hooch’s slobber is next-level. Watching this made me extra grateful for wet wipes.

10. A Dog’s Purpose (2017)

If you’ve ever wondered what your dog is thinking, this movie gives you a glimpse—through multiple lifetimes, no less! Following a dog’s reincarnations and the humans he loves along the way, this one’s a rollercoaster of emotions.

Tissues Required? Absolutely. You’ll cry, but you’ll also smile.

Dog Mom Insight: After watching, I 100% believe my dog has been with me in another life. His “I’ve seen this before” stare is way too convincing.

Bonus: Any Movie Starring YOUR Dog

Let’s be real, the best movie night companion is the one wagging their tail beside you. Whether your dog is a dramatic diva or a couch potato, their antics make every day feel like a scene from a blockbuster hit.

Final Thoughts

Dog movies remind us why we love our four-legged friends so much: their loyalty, their humor, and the unconditional love they bring to our lives. So this winter, when the world outside is a little too frosty, grab your dog, hit play on one of these classics, and enjoy the coziest movie night ever.

And don’t forget the treats—for both of you!