The 20 Most Iconic Dogs On Screen

There’s just something about dogs on screen that makes a movie or TV show even better. They might not have lines to memorize, but these furry stars knew exactly how to steal our hearts. We’ve got 20 childhood favorites and heroic canines who have become legends in their own right.
Rin Tin Tin From “Where The North Begins”

A pup found in the wreckage of WWI became a trailblazer in Hollywood by starring in 27 films. This cinematic hero’s breakout role in “Where the North Begins (1923)” showcased his bravery as a wolfdog by saving human companions.
Toto From “The Wizard Of Oz”

With a heart bigger than his paws, Toto might be small, but he’s a powerhouse of courage in “The Wizard of Oz.” That scrappy Cairn Terrier wasn’t just along for the ride—he showed that even the tiniest hero can leave the biggest mark on a journey with Dorothy.
Beethoven From “Beethoven”

1992 saw Beethoven, the Saint Bernard who’d rather cause a scene than save anyone, become a cinematic legend. Known for his hilarious antics and house-destroying escapades, he quickly cemented himself as the big dog with the most perfect comic timing.
Old Yeller From “Old Yeller”

One word: heartbreaking. Old Yeller’s 1957 film packs an emotional punch that’s still felt today. This loyal mutt’s tale of bravery and sacrifice took audiences on an emotional rollercoaster. Watching this movie might have you questioning your dog’s loyalty—and maybe needing a few tissues.
Spanky From “The Little Rascals”

Who could forget Spanky from “The Little Rascals”? He wasn’t merely the cute dog; he was a mischief-making mastermind. Alongside the kids, he dove into every adventure and proved that no caper is complete without a scruffy sidekick willing to stir things up!
Scooby-Doo From “Scooby-Doo”

Scooby Snacks were always within reach, keeping “Scooby-Doo” ready for whatever came next. Despite his fear of the supernatural, he never backed down from a mystery. From one ghostly encounter to the next, his signature “Ruh-roh!” always let everyone know trouble was near.
Marley From “Marley & Me”

Marley is the dog every pet owner secretly fears. You know, the one who’s cute, wild, and destructive all at once. In “Marley & Me” (2008), this Labrador Retriever took mischief to an art form. His antics? Hilarious. His impact on family life? Nothing short of unforgettable.
Lady From “Lady And The Tramp”

No dog has ever made dining look more romantic than “Lady and the Tramp’s” spaghetti scene. This 1955 Disney classic proved that love isn’t just for people. Lady, the refined Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, the street-smart mutt, created one of the most iconic canine romance stories ever told.
Hachiko From “Hachiko: A Dog’s Tale”

Waiting every day at a train station long after his owner passed, Hachiko’s devotion became legendary. The Akita’s dedication touched hearts worldwide, turning his story into a lasting symbol of loyalty, eventually immortalized in a statue and the 2009 film “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.”
Lassie from “Lassie”

As the first true canine icon, Lassie set the standard for hero dogs. Debuting in 1954, this brave, rough collie became a symbol of loyalty and courage, famously rescuing Timmy from the well and saving his life more than once.
Benji From “Benji”

Benji, a mixed-breed dog with a heart of gold, became a star in “Benji” (1974). In the film, he uses his clever problem-solving skills to rescue two kidnapped children. Despite not being trained to act, Benji’s natural charm and screen presence made the film a surprise hit.
Max From “The Secret Life Of Pets”

In “The Secret Life of Pets” (2016), dogs like Max (voiced by Louis C.K.) and Gidget (by Jenny Slate) secretly live wild when their owners are away. Max’s hilarious journey through Manhattan takes you behind the scenes of your pet’s very active life!
Air Bud From “Air Bud”

Ever wish your dog could dunk? In the ’90s, Air Bud made that wish come true. A Golden Retriever with a basketball and football career, he redefined what a dog could do. Forget fetching—you’ll be lucky if you can keep up with Air Bud’s skills.
Poochie From “The Simpsons”

“Poochie is the ’90s personified,” and that’s not just a quote. It’s a whole era. “The Simpsons” unleashed this loud, radical dog in 1991, and his brief time on the show encapsulated everything that was absurdly cool and completely wrong about the decade.
Cujo From “Cujo”

The Saint Bernard of “Cujo” wasn’t the dog you’d want to meet in a dark alley. Stephen King’s 1983 adaptation showed how rabies could turn a sweet dog into a vicious killer. After watching that transformation, who wouldn’t think twice before hugging a big dog?
Spot From “The Jetsons”

A pet with a twist—Spot from “The Jetsons” was the robotic dog of your sci-fi dreams. Whirring, beeping, and always by your side, he was more than just a companion—he was the ideal futuristic pet and blended loyalty with technology long before the world was ready.
Dug From “Up”

Dug, equipped with a collar that reveals his every thought, quickly became the heart of “Up.” His excitable nature and hilarious distractions made him the perfect animated sidekick and was pure joy and devotion that dogs bring, no matter if they’re talking or not.
The Shaggy Dog From “The Shaggy Dog”

2006 saw Tim Allen take on the iconic role in a new twist on shape-shifting humor. Watching a man turn into a dog was pure comedy gold, with loud laughs and plenty of “fetching” moments, all leading to the timeless fun of “The Shaggy Dog” films.
Brian Griffin From “Family Guy”

Brian Griffin might be a dog, but he’s got the wit of a stand-up comic and the intelligence of an Ivy League professor. As the talking dog in “Family Guy,” Brian offers sharp commentary on life, love, and everything in between. Just don’t ask him to fetch; he’s too cool for that.
Bolt From “Bolt”

Convinced he had superpowers, Bolt, a white shepherd dog, thought he could save the day in his TV show. The 2008 animated film showed us what it means to be a real hero. His adventure to discover true heroism led to a perfect mix of action and comedy.