Is Dog Gone Movie Based on a True Story?

Gonker in Dog Gone
Credit: Netflix


Gonker in Dog Gone
Credit: Netflix

Dog-related films are always a recipe for a cryfest. Among the best films we've had to date include Hachiko, Marley & Me, and Beethoven. And now, we seem to be getting a new dog-related film on Netflix that will sure make you cry your eyes out.

Dog Gone is a newly released film on Netflix that tells the true story of a dog named Gonker. If you're in need of a good cry, here's why this film is worth checking out.

Dog Gone Is Based on a True Story

Gonker in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

Dog Gone is based on the book entitled Dog Gone: A Lost Pet's Extraordinary Journey and the Family Who Brought Him Home. The novel is written by Pauls Toutonghi. Meanwhile, the script of the film is written by Nick Santora and is directed by Stephen Herek.

The real Gonker got separated from his family in 1998. While mourning the death of his daughter, Fielding Marshall decided to get a dog to help him get through the difficult time.

But Gonker was no ordinary dog since he had Addison's disease. This is a disease wherein the adrenal glands are unable to produce enough hormones. As a result, Gonker needed to have a hormonal injection once a month so he could avoid going into a coma.

Gonker in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

Shortly after his injection schedule, Gonker accompanied Marshall on a hike. Unfortunately, the dog managed to escape. With only two weeks left before his next injection, Marshall wasted no time and started looking for his dog.

15 days after Gonker disappeared, the family was finally reunited with their dog after traveling 178 kilometers. As it turns out, Gonker had been eating from trash cans in Wintergreen in order to survive.

What Is Dog Gone About?

Rob Lowe in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

The movie follows the story of John Marshall (played by Rob Lowe) as he goes on the Appalachian Trail to look for his son's dog named Gonker. Apart from being the family's dog, Gonker is considered as Fielding's (played by Johnny Berchtold) best friend.

"Gonker isn't any dog. He's my best friend. Everyone needs one soul who loves you because you are you. That's who Gonker was for me. And now he's lost."

Does Gonker Die at the End of Dog Gone?

Gonker in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

While this may be seen as a spoiler, it was actually Netflix who released the information in the first place. The streaming company may have answered a key question in people's minds to make sure more people will watch Dog Gone.

As revealed by Netflix, Gonker will not die at the end of the movie. The movie simply follows the life of the father and his son as they try to look for their beloved pet.

What Type of Dog Is Gonker in Dog Gone? Is He Still Alive?

Gonker in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

Gonker is a golden retriever mix. He was only six years old when he got separated from his owner, Fielding Marshall.

After his incredible journey, Gonker managed to live an additional five years until he died at the age of 11.

Who Stars in Dog Gone?

Rob Lowe in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

The cast of Dog Gone includes the following actors:

  • Rob Lowe
  • Kimberly Williams-Paisley
  • Nick Peine
  • Susan Gallagher
  • Soji Arai
  • Johnny Berchtold
  • Annabella Didion
  • Al Mitchell

Is There a Dog Gone Trailer?

Rob Lowe in Dog Gone
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Credit: Netflix

Yes, you can watch the trailer of the movie here:


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