Mary Allen
What could be nicer than a romantic movie night with delicious popcorn and your furry friend snuggled up on the sofa? Quite simply – if a dog also plays an important role in the film. As all dog owners know, dogs are the best mediators. This is also proven by our list of the best love movies with dogs!
Film, camera, action! Of course, the best feature films for dog lovers are those in which our beloved furry friends also play a leading role. But what are film dogs particularly good at? Causing chaos – yes. Turning the lives of their owners upside-down – absolutely. Make sure that the owners meet exactly the right person at the right moment? – Absolutely. In some films that have now achieved cult status, dogs are the decisive little helpers for Cupid. Therefore, there is no better cast for romantic comedy than four-legged friends! So that you don’t have to search too long for a romantic movie night with a dog, we have compiled our list of the best love movies with dogs here.
Woman With a Dog is Looking For… A Man With a Heart (2005)
In 2005, the romantic comedy Must Love Dogs was released under the original English title, starring Diane Lane as Sarah Nolan and John Cusak as Jake Anderson. The story about the preschool teacher and the boatbuilder as the central lovers is characterized by funny trials and tribulations. Among other things, the film addresses how difficult it can be to take a second chance in love. Therefore, older viewers might, especially like this movie. Of course, the best chaperone of all – a Newfoundland dog – watches over the first meeting of the two newly in love- Bitch Mother Theresa. In the film, two puppies, Molly and Maeve, who were then six months old, portray the long-suffering dog that director Gary David Goldberg adopted after filming.
Lady & the Tramp (1955)
This iconic Disney film may have been a few years old, but it still makes hearts beat faster today. The exciting love story about the spoiled Cocker Spaniel lady Susi from a rich family and the cheeky stray tramp is a beastly Romeo and Juliet situation. The famous spaghetti scene, in particular, has now achieved cult status… and lots of imitators. In addition to the adventures of the four-legged protagonists, other topics are also dealt with. For example, the sad fate of stray dogs or Susi’s entry into the family as a Christmas present(an irresponsible practice that is strongly discouraged!). In addition, one shows her subsequent neglect at the birth of the Darling couple’s child, but also the acceptance of the stray tramp into the wealthy family. No matter whether young or old, this loving film with a dog is a lovable classic.
A live-action remake of the story was released by Disney in 2019.
Legally Blonde (2001)
Who doesn’t know her: Reese Witherspoon in her iconic role as fashion-forward Elle Woods. As a law student, she took Harvard University by storm, despite her garishly pink outfit. With wit and finesse, she tricks those criminals in the courtroom who underestimate her because of the color of her hair. Her little Chihuahua is always by her side-Male Bruiser, of course, dressed in a fashionable outfit. You can think what you want about animal clothing – this romantic comedy with a difference is, like its protagonist, disarmingly charming. In addition to good humor, this film also spreads the important message that, in addition to finding romantic love, it is also important to respect and believe in yourself. No wonder such an often underestimated and confident dog breed as the Chihuahua is a perfect match for Elle!
And if you haven’t got enough of one of the best love movies with a dog, be comforted: there are two more parts of the legal romcom.
101 Dalmatians (1961/1996)
Regardless of whether it’s an animated film or a live-action adaptation, this strip about the scurrying puppies is a family-friendly, exciting, and yet romantic cult film. It tells the story of Pongo and Perdita Dalmatians and their amazing offspring of 101 Dalmatian puppies. But the rich and fur-crazy fashion designer Cruella De Vil wants to turn the cute puppies into a spotted fur coats. Of course, these plans must be thwarted! What stands out in 101 Dalmatians is that the dogs take their fate into their paws and work together with other animals to ultimately thwart Cruella’s evil plans and bring the animal abuser to justice. And what could be nicer than when love triumphs in the end?
In 1996, the story, which was extremely successful with audiences, was made again in live-action, starring Glenn Close as Cruella De Vil and Hugh Laurie (better known as “Dr. House”) as crook Jasper.
Marley & I (2008)
Labrador Retriever puppy Marley (in homage to musician Bob Marley) won the hearts of a generation with the wonderful 2008 film Marley & Me. One of the best romance movies with a dog is based on the autobiographical book of the same name by the American author John Grogan, so it’s sort of a true story. Along with Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston, the golden boy shone in the leading role of the cheeky and bright dog. The story describes the coexistence of two- and four-legged friends over several years and how, despite all the difficulties, a close bond is forged between man and dog. From the adoption of the puppy to the tearful farewell, the viewer accompanies the adorable furry friend for a lifetime.
As Marley is set to age on camera, the animal lead was played by 22 dogs, 11 of which were puppies. If you can’t get enough of this bittersweet declaration of love to our furry friends: In 2011 there was a sequel to the film, “Marley & Me 2 – The Naughtiest Puppy in the World”, which is intended to appeal to a younger audience.
With this selection of the best love movies with dogs, the next romantic movie night is guaranteed to be a great success. Now don’t forget the popcorn!