10 Best Dog Movies From the 80s: An Ulti-Mutt Ranking

The 80s unleashed a pack of tail-waggingly great dog movies that have since become absolute classics. Seriously, they're the top dogs in the film world! Each one is a fetching tale that's stood the test of time, leaving paw prints on our hearts and memories to last a lifetime. 

Is there anything more thrilling than seeing Hooch dash after the bad guys and unravel mysteries? His adorable antics not only stole the show but also our hearts. However, it’s impossible to ignore the sheer volume of his drool — it’s practically legendary!

Watching him in action was a delightful mix of awe and amusement, showcasing that unique blend of cuteness and chaos only a dog like Hooch could bring to the screen.

The Fox and the Hound is a legendary classic, weaving the unforgettable story of an unlikely duo bound by a friendship that defies the norms — a young, spirited fox and a determined hunting hound.

This heartwarming narrative delves deep into themes of camaraderie, the bittersweet nature of farewells, and the twists and turns encountered on the path of life. This timeless classic captivated audiences with its exploration of loyalty, change, and the enduring power of connection.

Milo and Otis is the ultimate tale of whisker-tickling adventure and paw-some friendship that charmed its way into our hearts! Milo, the adventurous and ever-curious kitten, strikes up an unlikely but utterly sweet friendship with Otis, the most adorable pug you could ever imagine.

Together, these two furry buddies embark on a journey filled with laughter, a dash of mischief, and endless fun.

Oliver & Company takes the classic Dickens tale of Oliver Twist and spins it into a tail-wagging, whisker-twitching urban adventure! An adorable, homeless kitten named Oliver finds himself lost in the sprawling maze of New York City.

But fear not, for this little furball isn't alone for long. He soon joins a band of charismatic canines, each with a personality bigger than Central Park!

All Dogs Go to Heaven might raise a few eyebrows among the parent crowd today, but back in the neon-lit, big-haired 80s, it wagged its way into the heart of family movie nights like a champ! A casino-owning pooch with more swagger than a rock star and a bark that's all bite, Charlie finds himself on a rollercoaster ride that's part redemption arc, part tail-chasing adventure.

This flick serves up a doggy bag full of love, second chances, and a side of redemption that'll have you rooting for the underdog from start to finish.

Life just wouldn't be the same without Tim Burton's wacky classics — Frankenweenie being one of them. This 1984 sci-fi movie tells the story of a boy who brings his beloved dog back to life.

With a monstrous and frightening appearance, you can imagine the neighbors and his family wouldn't be convinced this afterlife version would be the same. This story truly shows how connected we are to man's best friend in an entertaining, albeit morbid, charming way.

This classic horror tells the tale of a loving saint bernard dog that was bitten by a bat. Think about it for a minute — what could happen if you were bitten by one of these critters?

Now, dial it up 20 levels. That's Cujo! This pooch goes from being man's best friend to the terror of the town, attacking anyone who comes near.

There's something incredible about a dog movie that combines dogs, action, and drama, all in one film. Oh! Heavenly Dog follows what appears to be a stray dog named Benji (AKA Chevy Chase), who sets out to figure out who murdered him. 

K-9 features a cop who prefers to work alone — flying solo! Then, boom, out of nowhere, he's slapped with a partner for this massive case chasing down an international drug kingpin. He starts off losing his mind with his new partner, but as he learns the dog's remarkable skills, the cop starts to warm up. 

Dog City: The Movie is a classic comedy that takes the audience on a ride through Dog City in the 30s. The main character, Ace, inherits a saloon, but without the money to pay for protection, he finds himself the target of a bully that owns most of the city.

Pop a bag of popcorn and get ready to time-travel from the comfort of your couch as we dial the clock back to the rad 80s with a dog-themed movie marathon that's sure to unleash waves of nostalgia! 

Whether it's following the tail-wagging adventures of crime-fighting pups or getting teary-eyed over the heartfelt journeys of man's best friend, each flick is a four-pawed trip down memory lane. So, fluff up those pillows, grab your favorite snacks (maybe sneak a doggy treat or two), and let's bark and roll through the golden age of dog movies.