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• The Dog Days of Summer

We’re on the brink of another hot, sticky summer, and what better way to usher in these humid months than with a list of the ten coolest dog flicks? Dogs appear in movies all the time, and when they get the spotlight, great things can happen. Oh, and I’m leaving out Lassie because there are too many variations on the film, and it is pretty lame. Sorry Lassie, better luck next time.

10. Babe (1995) — Okay, this movie is not primarily about a dog, but it features dogs, and the star is an adorable pig that learns his place in life by becoming a “sheep pig” and herding cattle. Seven Oscar nominations went to Babe, and it would be a real shame to leave this tender, heartfelt tale off the list. Stick around for the ending, as it is the most powerful and moving part of the whole film.

9. As Good As It Gets (1997) — Any movie in which a cute little dog can steal attention away from a top-of-his-game Jack Nicholson deserves praise. ‘Nuff said.

8. Old Yeller (1957) — You know the ending. You probably cried. For a fun twist on the film, I would advise looking for the episode of Friends in which Lisa Kudrow’s character finally sees the actual ending of Old Yeller after having it hidden from her for her entire life.

7. Beethoven (1992) — This hugely-successful Saint Bernard comedy made way for a handful of sequels, but none compare to the zaniness of the original. In it, Charles Grodin battles the slobbery new member of the family.

6. Cujo (1983) — If you thought Beethoven was cute you may want to think again after seeing this bloody horror film. A Saint Bernard takes the place of Michael Meyers or Freddy Krueger and goes on a killing rampage that still resonates with movie lovers.

5. The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986) — A pug and a kitten go on a series of adventures. SO ADORABLE.

4. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993) — When two dogs and a cat are separated from their family, they will do whatever it takes to return. As a child I remember sitting in the movie theater crying tears of sadness followed by tears of joy at this thrilling, moving film.

3. My Dog Skip (2000) — A tiny Frankie Muniz stars in this heartwarming film about a boy and his dog. Based on the memoir by Willie Morris, My Dog Skip has everything that dog lovers and movie fans could ever hope for in a movie: a cute dog, a great story and genuine emotion.

2. (Tie) 101 Dalmatians (1961) and Lady and the Tramp (1955) — Both of these Disney classics feature narratives driven by dogs, and they stand as popular today as they were upon their initial release. Kids and adults still watch these movies and have strong bonds to the cute characters and beautiful animation.

1. Best in Show (2000) — Christopher Guest’s brilliant mockumentary about the trials and tribulations behind the scenes at a competitive dog show is one of the best comedies of the past ten years. I can’t think of a recent film that is more quotable or more razor-sharp, and Best in Show’s nutty send-up of dog lovers is both accurate and loving. GO WATCH THIS MOVIE NOW.