During the COVID-19 pandemic, many pet owners started streaming movies at home, as most movie theaters were closed. Even post-pandemic, it can be more comfortable to settle in on the couch with your pooch snuggling by your side to watch a movie than it is to go out to the theater. You might be wondering if there are certain movies your dog might enjoy watching with you more than others? Here, we will discuss 10 movies to watch with a dog by your side (and how you can watch them at home).
Lady and the Tramp
This classic Disney animated movie was released on June 22, 1955, but that doesn’t mean that you (and your dog) will enjoy watching it any less today. The plot of Lady and the Tramp revolves around Lady, a pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a mutt who falls for her (she eventually falls for him, too, of course!) It’s the classic rich girl/poor boy love story, played out with dogs! You can stream Lady and the Tramp exclusively on Disney+. It is also available for purchase on Blu-Ray, DVD and in digital format.
101 Dalmatians
Another great animated flick that your dog will enjoy watching with you is 101 Dalmatians. There are two great versions of this Disney film – the animated version from 1961, and the live-action version from 1996. Depending upon your dog’s preference, either one is a good choice to watch together. Both films tell the story of a wild rescue of dalmatian puppies from Cruella De Vil, one of the most truly evil and scary villains in moviedom (played by Glenn Close in the live-action film). Stream the animated version on Amazon Prime Video. The live-action version is available to stream from Amazon or Disney+. You can also purchase the live-action film on Blu-Ray, DVD and in digital format.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
Homeward Bound tells the story of three pets – Chance, a younger dog; Shadow, an older dog; and Sassy, a cat – who are left behind when their family goes on vacation. They set off on a quest across the United States to find their family. This heartwarming 1993 Disney film is available to stream from Disney+. You can purchase it on Blu-Ray, DVD and in digital format if you prefer.
Beethoven
Is your dog a fan of comedy films? If so, he’ll love the story of the lovable, giant, large, sloppy Saint Bernard, Beethoven. This 1992 movie tells the story of the dog’s integration into the Newton family. Beethoven becomes an unlikely part of the family by film’s end. If your dog loves this movie, there are plenty of sequels to enjoy, too! Stream Beethoven on Amazon Prime Video.
Old Yeller
If you have the kind of dog who likes to lick the tears off your face, Old Yeller is a good movie to watch with them. Released in 1957, this timeless live-action classic (based on the book of the same name) is set in Texas after the Civil War. The mutt, Old Yeller, becomes a beloved dog in this film. Kleenex alert: this film is a tear-jerker (hence, the need for a dog to be by your side who will help lick tears off your face). You can stream Old Yeller on Amazon Prime Video.
Marley & Me
This 2008 live-action film is based on a book. In Marley & Me, a family learns life lessons from an adorable, neurotic Labrador (Marley). The dog who starts out as being thought of as a bad dog ends up being the family’s beloved pet. The film stars Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson. You can stream Marley & Me on Amazon Prime Video.
Turner & Hooch
Another great live-action dog film that your dog will enjoy watching with you is Turner & Hooch. Turner, a private investigator, played by Tom Hanks, is paired with a French Mastiff, named, of course, Hooch. It’s kind of a modern-day take on “The Odd Couple,” with Turner as the Felix Unger-type neat, clean character and Hooch as the Oscar Madison-type slob. Released in 1989, Turner & Hooch is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
The Fox and the Hound
Another animated Disney classic from 1981, The Fox and the Hound is based on a 1967 novel of the same name. A fox named Todd becomes best buddies with a hound puppy named Copper. When Copper grows up and becomes a hunting dog, however, their friendship faces a test. Running an hour and 23 minutes long, The Fox and the Hound is available to stream at Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus.
The Secret Life of Pets
The Secret Life of Pets is a newer animated comedy from 2016 that you and your dog will love watching together. It shows you what your dog is likely to be up to while you’re out of the house. The film features a terrier named Max, and a stray named Duke. Voices include Louis C.K., Kevin Hart, and Eric Stonestreet. Stream The Secret Life of Pets on Amazon Prime Video.
A Dog’s Way Home
Another newer film that your dog will enjoy, this one being live-action, is A Dog’s Way Home. Released in 2019, this heartwarming film tells the story of a dog’s 400-mile journey home after it becomes separated from its owner. Its human stars include Ashley Judd and Edward James Olmos. As this film is another tear-jerker, keep your dog handy while watching this one to catch your tears with their tongue before they fall on your dog! Stream A Dog’s Way Home on Starz or through Amazon Prime Video.
