Dogs have long been a part of cinematic history, with many even leading their own films and proving themselves as some of the best actors on screen.
In fact, for the first time in movie history, a dog – Indy from the recently released Good Boy—received a nomination for an award that typically recognizes only human talent.
So, beyond this unexpected breakout star, here are some of the other greatest dogs in movies.
Indy
The adorable star of Good Boy, Indy – a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever – narrates much of Ben Leonberg’s feature directorial debut, following his life as he moves with his owner, Todd (Shane Jensen), to a remote rural home.
In addition to struggling with a chronic lung disease, Todd becomes increasingly threatened by a malevolent supernatural presence, and Indy does everything he can to protect and rescue him.
Despite being a horror film, Good Boy blends emotional resonance, loyalty, and heartbreak with chilling suspense.
Proving that dogs aren’t just for family comedies, Good Boy shows exactly who the goodest boy is – often accompanied by a wagging tail and four paws.
Old Yeller
Dubbed Walt Disney’s most dramatic motion picture, the 1957 Western drama Old Yeller featured a lop-eared yellow Mastador named Spike in real life as the titular character.
The film tells the story of a boy and a stray dog in post-Civil War Texas, showcasing courage, loyalty, and sacrifice as Old Yeller protects his family from wild animals and other threats.
However, all of this comes at the expense of his own life, ending the movie with a heartbreaking yet poignant tale of devotion and love.
Toto
As the Wicked movies once again remind us of the 1939 musical The Wizard of Oz, it’s a good time to remember why Dorothy (Judy Garland) fought the Wicked Witch of the West (Margaret Hamilton) so fiercely: because of her dog, Toto – a Cairn Terrier named Terry in real life.
The Wicked Witch became an instant villain because she sought to harm Toto, and no human would stand by and allow that.
Small but mighty, Toto proves that heroes come in all sizes. Through companionship, bravery, and even comic relief, he shows that the smallest creatures can make the biggest difference.
Hachiko
Who could ever forget Hachiko from the 2009 film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale? Based on a true Akita dog of the same name, he became a symbol of unwavering loyalty and devotion, waiting at the train station for his owner for years – even after his owner had passed away.
Narrated by Parker Wilson’s (Richard Gere) grandson, Ronnie (Kevin DeCoste), whose personal hero was Hachi, the film’s emotional storytelling immortalizes the dog’s steadfast love, highlighting the profound bond between humans and their canine companions.
With Hachiko’s story, even the coldest and hardest of hearts are sure to shed a tear.
Beethoven
No ‘90s kid can forget Beethoven. This 1992 family comedy of the same name surely inspired many homes to welcome their own St. Bernard, no matter how mischievous they could be.
The dog instantly won hearts with his playful antics, though his enormous appetite was another story.
His comedic timing and knack for wreaking havoc – often unintentionally – made viewers laugh and fall in love with Beethoven.
As the film spawned a franchise, including a short-lived animated TV series and a sequel, it’s clear that Beethoven remains one of the most beloved canine figures in movie history.
Lassie
No list of dog movies is complete without Lassie – the ultimate hero. First appearing in the 1943 film Lassie Come Home, the story features the profound bond between Yorkshire boy Joe Carraclough and his Rough Collie, Lassie.
Lassie knows no bounds when it comes to her love for her young owner, doing everything she can to return home after being sold to the wealthy Duke of Rudling. Despite embarking on a long trek and facing numerous challenges, from dogcatchers to a violent storm, her devotion to Joey never wavers.
No wonder Lassie became a cultural icon and a blueprint for the “man’s best friend” in cinema over the decades.
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