Dogs are man’s best friend. They are there for us through thick and thin, and often sacrifice more loyalty than we could ever ask. It’s no wonder why there are approximately 374 total movies about dogs. Since that is a very long film journey, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite dog movies for dog lovers.

The Shaggy Dog (2006)

Starting off strong, we’ve got The Shaggy Dog. Man by day, shaggy dog by night, Dave Douglas (Tim Allen) learns the meaning of family while battling in a court case against an animal testing laboratory run by the villain Kozak (Robert Downey Jr.) The whole story is a fantastic mix of comedy and the meaningful lesson of appreciating your family. It’s a great watch if you’re looking for something to entertain the kids. Seeing a young RDJ isn’t so bad, either. 

Marley and Me (2008)

This one is a classic. We follow John and Jenny Grogan (Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston), a newly married couple who learn how to juggle married life, competing jobs, a growing family, and the handful that is Marley. This one will have you holding onto your dog and your tissues, so be prepared. The tear-jerker aspect should deter you, though, as the entire movie still brings lots of laughs for everyone. 

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

Even more of a classic, we’ve got Homeward Bound! This story follows a crew of mischievous animals on their journey home after they’ve been abandoned at a family friend’s farm, or so they think. Chance (Michael J. Fox), Shadow (Don Ameche) and Sassy (Sally Field) trek through the California wilderness to make it home, and on the way they discover the meaning of friendship and family. Watch this movie if you want to cry, laugh, and stay on the edge of your seat.

Bolt (2008)

If you’re looking for something dorkier and animated then this is the way to go. Bolt (John Travolta) and Penny (Miley Cyrus) are the stars of a TV show, but Bolt has never lived life outside of the studio so he thinks the show is complete reality. His world is shattered when he accidentally escapes his trailer and ends up in the nasty streets of New York. Laugh with your kids as you watch Bolt and his new friends try to find their way home and learn that the world is a lot warmer than they think.