The Most Famous TV and Movie Dogs of the Past 100 Years
Dogs have long been a part of Hollywood’s charm. They’ve played key roles in films and TV shows alike, capturing hearts along the way. From the loyal and brave to the goofy and lovable, these canine characters have entertained audiences for decades. Some of the most famous TV and movie dogs have become icons, capturing the spirit of adventure and friendship that many people cherish.
Featured here are some of the most famous dogs from film and television over the past 100 years. Each one has a unique story and charm that captivates viewers, often leaving a big mark on popular culture. Get ready to celebrate these iconic dogs that have become legends on screen!
Recommended Products:
LASSIE
Lassie was a Rough Collie who appeared in multiple TV series and films, including the wildly popular initial TV series “Lassie” that boasted a 19-season run from 1954 to 1973, and is one of the most famous dogs in television and motion picture history. Known for her intelligence and bravery, Lassie often displayed great problem-solving skills, whether it was alerting adults of danger or leading people to safety. Her heroics made her a beloved character. Fans have always admired Lassie for her strong bond with humans and her ability to communicate without words.
BENJI
Benji is a scruffy terrier who became an iconic character through a series of films starting in the 1970s. Known for his resourcefulness, Benji often finds himself solving problems and rescuing those in need. He appeals to audiences with his cleverness and charm. The warmth of his character and the adventures he embarks on create a lasting impression on viewers. The original Benji was played by well-known dog actor Higgins, who also played the dog in the TV series “Petticoat Junction”.
RIN TIN TIN
When it comes to canine movie stars, Rin Tin Tin started it all. A German Shepherd who became a massive star in the 1920s, he appeared in silent films and even helped save Warner Bros. from bankruptcy. His stunts and charm made him a favorite among audiences. Known for his intelligence and athleticism, Rin Tin Tin was often portrayed as a brave companion who saved lives. His legacy continues to influence films and television shows featuring heroic dogs.
HACHI
Perhaps no other film featuring a dog tugged at the heartstrings of dog lovers everywhere quite like “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” did when it came out in 2009. This film, starring Richard Gere as Hachi’s owner, is an American adaptation of the true story of an Akita dog named Hachikō who lived in Japan from 1923–1935. A definite tear-jerker, the film centers around Hachi, who waits at the train station every day for his owner to return, even after the owner passes away. It is a heartwarming story of loyalty and love between a dog and his owner.
HOOCH
Hooch is the lovable Dogue de Bordeaux from the 1989 movie Turner & Hooch. He is a slobbering but adorable companion to detective Scott Turner, played by Tom Hanks. Throughout the movie, Hooch helps Turner solve a murder case. His goofy antics and protective nature make him a memorable character, showcasing the special bond between dogs and their owners. And, oh, that drool….
BEETHOVEN
Speaking of drool… Beethoven is a Saint Bernard known for his clumsy but sweet personality in the movie (and sequels) by the same name. He is a big dog with a big heart, quickly becoming the favorite of the Newton family. The films highlights Beethoven’s mischievous side as he creates chaos in the household. Despite this, he is fiercely loyal and loving towards his human family. His journey shows how important it is to care for pets, even when they misbehave.
EDDIE
Eddie is the Jack Russell Terrier who belongs to Martin Crane (Frasier’s dad) in the sitcom “Frasier.” He became well-known for his quirky behavior and expressions, often stealing scenes with just a look or a bark. His slightly aloof personality contrasted nicely with the human characters, adding humor to the show. Fans appreciated how Eddie was a constant presence, helping to round out the Crane family dynamic. Moose, who initially played Eddie before his son Enzo took over, even received more fan mail than the rest of the cast.
OLD YELLER
Old Yeller was the yellow Labrador Retriever/Mastiff mix featured in the 1957 Disney movie by the same name. In the film, Old Yeller who befriends a young boy named Travis, and the story follows their adventures in the wild Texas frontier and the bond that grows between them. The film is known for its emotional storyline and the enduring theme of loyalty and sacrifice, making it a beloved tale for generations. It also features one of the most tearful scenes in movie history.
PETEY
With that iconic ring around his eye, nobody can mistake that adorable Petey of “Little Rascals” fame. Petey often finds himself in silly situations, helping the gang out of trouble – or getting them into it. Petey was played by several dogs over the years, and that circle around the eye – which was actually drawn on by a makeup artist – changed eyes after the first Petey was replaced with a different dog actor. In any case, he’s definitely a Hollywood icon of the canine variety!
BUDDY
Who knew that a stray Golden could bring such amazing skills to the basketball court? That’s exactly what Buddy does when he finds his new human Josh, a high school kid who just lost his dad and is struggling to adapt to a new home in a new state in the 1997 comedy “Air Bud”. Of course, Buddy came from a less than desirable background, which is how he ends up finding Josh, and together this pair form a friendship that most would envy.
MARLEY
From puppyhood through his entire adult life, movie-watchers everywhere fell in love with the adorable yellow lab named Marley, adopted by newlyweds John and Jenny Grogan after moving from Michigan to Florida. Little did they realize what a handful he would be, but they also realize life would never be the same without their precious pup. “Marley & Me” perfectly captures the joyful moments and heartaches that come with having a pet, and gives us yet another movie dog for us to adore.
TOTO
Toto of “The Wizard of Oz” isn’t just a pet – this scruffy little Cairn Terrier is Dorothy’s best friend who travels with her to the magical land of Oz. He’s brave and protective, often helping Dorothy when she faces danger. His antics bring humor to this classic movie, especially when he pulls back the curtain to reveal the Wizard. This fearless little canine cutie is the epitome of friendship and loyalty throughout their adventures. Everybody could use a little Toto in their lives!
HERCULES
Hercules, the massive dog in “The Sandlot,” is initially seen as a scary beast who is feared by the neighborhood kids, but he becomes a key part of the children’s adventure. The boys must face him to retrieve their baseball, and they learn not to judge by appearances. As the story unfolds, Hercules reveals his gentle side, especially when he helps the kids. This transformation from fear to friendship can teach us all something about understanding and bravery. Hercules proves that true friends come in all shapes and sizes.
FLY
Fly is the beautiful border collie featured in the 1995 movie “Babe.” As a nurturing and wise figure, she guides Babe, the pig, as he learns about life on the farm. Fly’s intelligence and maternal instincts play a significant role in the story. Her dedication to her farm family is evident as she supports Babe in his quest to prove himself as a sheepdog.
COMET
The 80’s and 90’s sitcom “Full House” brought us a family-friendly show, lots of laughs, and an adorable Golden Retriever named “Comet”. This lovable bundle of fur is known for his friendly disposition and loyalty, typical of most Golden Retrievers. Comet often joins the kids in their adventures, making him a beloved character. He didn’t actually make his debut on the show until season three, and remained for the rest of the series.
ASTA
Asta, the wire-haired fox terrier from “The Thin Man” movies of the 1930’s and 40’s, was not just a pet but a key part of the mystery and humor in the story. Asta often assists his owners, Nick and Nora Charles, in solving crimes. His playful and clever nature provides both companionship and comic relief. Asta’s charm and intelligence make him unforgettable. This lovable canine reminds us that pets can be valuable partners in both fun and serious situations.
BRUISER
Bruiser is the fashionable Chihuahua belonging to Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde.” He epitomizes the notion of a “pampered pooch,” often seen in stylish outfits. Bruiser showcases loyalty and support as Elle navigates her journey through Harvard Law School. And, in addition to being dressed to kill, this little charmer is also a Gemini vegetarian, just like Elle. He was also there when Reese Witherspoon received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Now THAT’S a pal.
CUJO
To anyone who’s seen the movie by the same name, there is no dog on this list more terrifying than Cujo. Although this big guy may once have been a “good boy”, at some point he contracted rabies from a bat and turned in to this hulking evil menace who attacked anybody who came near. It’s the stuff of nightmares, and who better to bring it to us than the King of Horror himself, Stephen King. If you’ve seen the movie, you know.
FRANK THE PUG
Frank the Pug from the “Men in Black” movie series (and sequel/spinoff) looks like an ordinary dog but is actually an alien in disguise. He was such a big hit in the first movie that he played an even bigger part in the second one. Sadly, he didn’t make it into the third film because the pug who played him had died, but he did make it into a few episodes of the TV series, as well as the video game. Alien or dog, Frank definitely made his mark in Hollywood!
EINSTEIN
Einstein is the loyal companion to Doc Brown in the “Back to the Future” movie series. This shaggy, lovable dog plays a crucial role in the storyline, serving as Doc’s test subject for his time travel experiments. His charming demeanor adds a layer of warmth to the trio’s adventures. Interestingly, Einstein has originally scripted to be a chimp, but they decided to use a dog instead. Good choice!
BAXTER
In “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy,” Baxter is the charming dog of Ron Burgundy. A loyal companion, he brings humor to the film, particularly in his dynamic with Ron. Baxter finds himself in memorable moments, including a dramatic confrontation with a rival reporter’s dog. His presence highlights Ron’s softer side, creating a deeper connection with the audience.
SKIP
Skip is the heartwarming dog in “My Dog Skip,” a film about growing up in Mississippi. The story captures the bond between a boy and his dog, illustrating themes of friendship and loyalty. Skip’s playful nature helps the young protagonist navigate various challenges of childhood. His endearing antics and protective instincts create poignant moments that resonate with many viewers. Many may recognize Skip as the same dog (dogs, actually) who portrayed Eddie in TV’s “Frasier”.
WINN-DIXIE
It’s hard moving to a new town and having to make new friends, but it’s a lot easier when you have a best pal by your side, and that’s just what Opal finds out in “Because of Winn-Dixie”. This mischievous dog got his name from the grocery store where Opal found him getting into trouble, but he doesn’t seem to mind. Winn-Dixie’s friendly and goofy personality makes him a favorite among both characters and viewers. His presence helps Opal face her challenges and understand the importance of friendship. The bond between them showcases how pets can change lives for the better.
JACK
In a 2011 movie set in the silent movie era of the 1920’s (“The Artist”), a Parson Russell Terrier named Uggie plays Jack and turns out to be a real scene-stealer throughout the movie. His appearance in the movie was responsible for a large uptick of people looking to adopt Jack Russell Terriers after the movie came out. Uggie’s performance as Jack was so good that there was a campaign called “Consider Uggie” to nominate him for an Oscar at the Academy Awards; while he was ultimately barred from competing, he did end up winning best performance by a canine at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival.
SHADOW
Those who grew up during the 1990’s will recognize Shadow and Chance as two-thirds of the trio (with Sassy) featured in the 1993 movie “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey”. When their owners have to relocate temporarily to San Francisco, these three are left with friends and promptly escape in search of their owners. Young and impulsive Chance (voiced by Michael J. Fox) and wise old gentleman Shadow (Don Ameche) play off each other beautifully, and despite their differences, form a friendship we’d all love to have.
WISHBONE
From the 1990’s TV series by the same name, Wishbone is an adorable Jack Russell Terrier who loves reading and imagining himself as characters from classic literature. The show, which started in 1995, introduced viewers to stories like The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Count of Monte Cristo. Wishbone’s adventures in the stories brought literature to life for kids. His imaginative take on these tales made learning fun and engaging. With his little red book collar, Wishbone became a symbol of curiosity and creativity.
