Dogs have a special place in our hearts and they often become a part of our families. Unfortunately, sometimes they pass away and it can be a devastating experience. In these sad dog movies, we follow the lives of dogs who are loyal companions and their relationships with their owners. These movies will not only tug at your heartstrings but also make you appreciate the bond between dogs and humans. Here are the top 10 sad dog movies that you can find on Netflix.
Marley & Me (2008)
Marley and Me is based on the best-selling book by John Grogan and tells the story of a couple who adopts a mischievous and high-energy Labrador Retriever named Marley.
Despite the challenges that come with owning a rambunctious dog, Marley becomes a beloved member of the family and helps them to grow and change in ways they never expected.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| David Frankel | December 25, 2008 | Drama, Family | Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Eric Dane | 7.0/10 |
A Dog’s Purpose (2017)
A dog’s journey who is reincarnated multiple times and experiences various lives with different owners.
Along the way, the dog learns about his purpose and the bond he shares with his human companions.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Lasse Hallström | January 27, 2017 | Adventure, Comedy, Drama | Josh Gad, Dennis Quaid, Peggy Lipton | 7.2/10 |
Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)
Based on the true story of a Japanese Akita named Hachiko who became famous for his loyalty to his owner.
The movie follows Hachiko’s life as he waits for his owner to return from work at the train station every day, even after his owner passes away. The movie is known for its touching and heartwarming story, as well as its portrayal of the unbreakable bond between dogs and their owners.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Lasse Hallström | August 8, 2009 | Biography, Drama, Family | Richard Gere, Joan Allen, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, | 8.1/10 |
Old Yeller (1957)
A classic coming-of-age story about a young boy named Travis and his relationship with a lovable and adventurous yellow dog named Old Yeller. Despite their initial reservations, Travis and Old Yeller become close companions and embark on many adventures together.
The movie is known for its heartwarming moments, as well as its heart-wrenching ending that has touched the hearts of generations of movie-goers.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Robert Stevenson | December 25, 1957 | Adventure, Drama, Family | Dorothy McGuire, Fess Parker | 7.3/10 |
My Dog Skip (2000)
Sets in the 1940s, the movie explores the bond between Willie and his dog Skip as they grow up together, facing life’s challenges and adventures.
Well known for its heartwarming moments and touching story, and is a celebration of the special bond between dogs and their owners.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Jay Russell | March 3, 2000 | Comedy, Drama, Family | Frankie Muniz, Diane Lane, Kevin Bacon | 7.0/10 |
A Dog’s Way Home (2019)
Bella, is on a long journey to reunite with her owner. The film delves into the themes of love, devotion, and the unbreakable connection between dogs and their humans.
Bella’s travels highlight the lengths to which dogs will go to be with their owners. The movie is recognized for its emotionally charged story and its memorable, heartwarming moments.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Charles Martin Smith | January 11, 2019 | Adventure, Drama, Family | Ashley Judd, Jonah Hauer-King, Edward James Olmos | 6.7/10 |
The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019)
Based on Garth Stein’s popular novel, It focuses on the relationship between Denny, a race car driver, and his dog, Enzo, who acts as the narrator.
Through Enzo’s unique perspective, the movie explores the strong connection between dogs and their owners and highlights the love and devotion that dogs exhibit towards their human friends.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Simon Curtis | August 9, 2019 | Comedy, Drama, Romance | Milo Ventimiglia, Kevin Costner, Jackie Minns | 7.5/10 |
Eight Below (2006)
A team of sled dogs is left behind in Antarctica when their owner is forced to evacuate due to a dangerous storm.
The movie is a testament to the strength and resilience of dogs, as the sled dogs struggle to survive in the harsh Antarctic environment.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Frank Marshall | February 17, 2006 | Adventure, Drama, Family | Paul Walker, Jason Biggs, Bruce Greenwood | 7.3/10 |
101 Dalmatians (1996)
The 1961 classic Disney animated film “101 Dalmatians” tells the story of Pongo and Perdita, two Dalmatians whose puppies are stolen by the villainous Cruella De Vil for her fur coat designs.
The film follows the parents on their brave and exciting mission to rescue their children, and it is known for its touching scenes and inspiring story that showcases the love and loyalty that dogs have for their human friends.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Clyde Geronimi, Hamilton Luske, Wolfgang Reitherman | January 25, 1961 | Animation, Adventure, Comedy | Rod Taylor Betty Lou Gerson J. Pat O’Malley | 7.3/10 |
Marmaduke (2010)
A lovable Great Dane named Marmaduke moves with his family from Kansas to California. The movie is a comedy-adventure that explores the challenges that Marmaduke faces as he adjusts to his new home. This will surely bring a smile to the face of any dog lover.
| Director | Release Date | Genre | Cast | IMDb Rating |
| Tom Dey | June 4, 2010 | Comedy, Family | Owen Wilson(voice) Judy Greer Lee Pace | 4.3/10 |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these films highlight the range of emotions that accompany the experience of having a pet dog. Both the canine and human actors deliver impactful performances that evoke strong emotions in the audience. If you’re a dog lover or enjoy watching movies that evoke emotions, these 10 sad dog movies on Netflix are a must-watch. So, get cozy with your furry companion, grab a tissue, and be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster.
