The holiday season is here, and what better way to cherish those special moments with your family than by settling in for an enchanting movie night? But hold on, this isn’t your ordinary assortment of Christmas films. Instead, we’ve curated a delightful selection of 23 heartwarming Dog Christmas movies that feature our furry friends.
These films bring forth a unique blend of heartwarming tales and bursts of laughter, all centered around our beloved canine companions. From spirited pups saving Christmas from wily burglars to devoted furry companions discovering love and joy amidst the holiday festivities, this carefully chosen collection of “Dog Christmas movies” caters to the people who love them.
So, grab the popcorn, fluff up those couch cushions, and get ready to embark on a delightful journey through a winter wonderland filled with charm and festive cheer.
Whether you’re an ardent dog lover, an enthusiast for all things Christmas, or simply in search of a heartwarming family movie night, these “Dog Christmas movies” are sure to infuse your holiday season with joy. It’s time to enjoy moments of laughter, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Table of Content
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Please note the information provided here was collected from on-line resources. While we strive for accuracy at Happyoodles.com, it can not be guaranteed.
Dog Christmas Movies for the Family
Here you will find a delightful selection of family friendly movies. However the ratings and family-friendliness for these movies are based on general guidelines, and individual sensitivities may vary. It’s advisable to check Common Sense Media or Dove.com for ratings and reviews with more detailed information.
1. A Doggone Christmas (2016)
Rating: NR
Overview: When a government-owned dog named Murphy escapes while traveling with the FBI, he winds up with two brothers after they find him in an old, rumored-to-be-haunted house. Murphy surprises them by communicating telepathically, sharing his story, and becoming their treasured secret.
Meanwhile, the brothers’ father loses his job near Christmas, making their situation difficult. The FBI, led by unyielding agent Camilla Sharp, launches a nationwide search for Murphy. With their bonds and bicycles, the boys and their friends rally to protect their canine friend.
Where to find: Hallmark Television, Peacock, Prime Video, or DVD
Genre: Family, Comedy
2. Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws (2009)
Rating: G
Overview: Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws is a heartwarming family film that serves as the first installment of the “Santa Paws” film series, a spin-off of the popular “Air Buddies” franchise. The movie tells the enchanting story of a group of adventurous puppies known as the “Buddies.”
In this festive adventure, the Buddies are on a mission to save Christmas after a magical artifact known as the Christmas Icicle is accidentally cracked. As a result, the North Pole begins to lose its holiday spirit, and Santa Claus himself faces a crisis.
The Buddies, along with their newfound friend Puppy Paws, who is the son of Santa Paws, embark on a journey to save Christmas and restore the holiday’s true meaning.
Where to find it: Disney Plus, DVD, Blue Ray, or Prime Video.
Genre: Family, Adventure, Drama
3. The Search for Santa Paws (2010)
Rating: G
Overview: In “The Search for Santa Paws,” a heartwarming prequel to the beloved “Santa Buddies” series, we enter into the enchanting world of Santa Claus and his cherished companion, Paws. When they discover that the Christmas spirit is waning in the hearts of children worldwide, they embark on an unforgettable adventure to New York City.
However, a tragic accident leaves Santa with amnesia, and it’s up to Paws, a loyal orphan named Quinn, her new friend Will, and a group of remarkable talking dogs to save Santa and remind the world of the true meaning of Christmas.
Where to find: Disney Plus, DVD, Blu-ray or Prime Video
Genre: Family, Adventure, Drama
4. Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups (2012)
Rating: G
Overview: Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups is a delightful family film set in the magical world of Santa Claus and his loyal canine companions. In this heartwarming sequel, the adorable Santa Pups, the offspring of Santa’s faithful dog, Santa Paws, embark on their own festive adventure.
The story unfolds as the mischievous Santa Pups accidentally stow away on Mrs. Claus’s sleigh and find themselves in the town of Pineville. There, they discover that the Christmas spirit is fading away.
To stop it from disappearing they use their magical abilities, but something goes terribly wrong. Now the Santa Pups and Mrs. Claus must race to save Christmas.
Where to find: Disney Plus, Prime Video, Vudu, DVD, or Blu-ray
Genre: Family, Adventure
5. The Dog Who Saved the Holidays (2012)
Rating: PG
Overview: The Dog Who Saved the Holidays is a heartwarming family film that continues the adventures of Zeus. In this latest installment, “The Dog Who Saved the Holidays” takes us to a sunny California, where the Bannister family is visiting Aunt Barbara for Christmas.
Their holiday takes an unexpected turn when Aunt Barbara surprises them with a new puppy named Eve. While everyone instantly falls in love with Eve, there’s one family member who isn’t quite convinced – Zeus. Zeus sees Eve’s mischievous side when no one else is around and decides to run away.
As Zeus embarks on his solo adventure, he stumbles upon Ted and Stewey, a pair of cunning thieves attempting to break into the Bannister family home while they are away at church. Realizing the danger his family is in, Zeus teams up with his new sister, Eve, to thwart the thieves and save the holidays for their beloved family.
Where to find it: Peakcock App, Prime Video, and DVD
Genre: Comedy, Family
6. 12 Dogs of Christmas (2005)
Rating: G
Overview: 12 Dogs of Christmas is a heartwarming family film set in a small town during the Great Depression. The story follows a young girl named Emma, who is sent to live with her aunt. Here she finds herself in the middle of a dog-fight with the Mayor and town dog-catcher over the town’s no-dogs law.
To do this Emma must bring together a group of schoolmates, adults and 12 stay dogs to create a memorable Christmas pageant featuring the dogs, each with its own unique talent.
Where to find it: DVD, Prime Video and PeacockTV
Genre: Family, Drama
7. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Rating: G
Overview: A Charlie Brown Christmas, a timeless classic, brings to life the heartfelt struggles and joys of the beloved Peanuts gang during the festive season. As the holiday spirit envelops the town, Charlie Brown finds himself grappling with feelings of melancholy amidst the commercialism that seems to dominate the true essence of Christmas.
In his quest for genuine Christmas spirit, Charlie Brown, alongside his trusty dog Snoopy and the ever-loyal Linus, embarks on a journey filled with humorous blunders and introspective moments.
As they prepare for the school’s Christmas play, the group confronts their personal beliefs and societal expectations about the holiday.
Where to find: DVD, Blu-ray, Prime Video or Apple TV. This short movie is often play on regular TV at least once during the holidays.
Genre: Family, Comedy, Drama
8. Olive the other Reindeer (1999)
Rating: G
Overview: Olive, the Other Reindeer is a heartwarming and whimsical tale centered around Olive, a unique dog with a heart full of Christmas spirit. Upon hearing a radio broadcast mistakenly announcing that Santa’s annual journey might be canceled due to an injured reindeer, Olive becomes determined to step in and save the festive day.
Convinced she’s destined to be Santa’s “other reindeer,” she embarks on a journey to the North Pole with Martini, a smooth-talking penguin she befriends along the way.
Yet, the path to becoming one of Santa’s reindeer isn’t as straightforward as Olive imagined. The duo faces a series of challenges, including a cunning postman who’s on a mission to sabotage Christmas, hoping to reduce his holiday mail load.
Where to find: FOX Network during the holidays, YouTube, or DVD
Genre: Comedy, Family
9. The 12 Dogs of Christmas: Great Puppy Rescue (2012)
Rating: PG
Overview: This heartwarming sequel begins with Emma O’Connor’s return to her beloved town for the funeral of Mrs. Stevens, a woman renowned for her compassion toward homeless dogs. When a train mishap forces Emma to hitchhike, she encounters the enigmatic Zoe, a fortune teller and former actress with psychic powers.
As Emma faces the challenge of saving the ‘dog orphanage’ from foreclosure and the town’s villain, Finneas, she embarks on a journey filled with unexpected obstacles, old friendships, and the power of community.
With Christmas approaching, Emma’s determination to rescue the dogs takes center stage, leading to a heartwarming tale of resilience, hope, and the enduring bond between humans and their furry companions
Where to find it: DVD, or Prime Video
Genre: Family, Comedy, Adventure
10. Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure (2011)
Rating: PG
Overview: When a mischievous Christmas elf finds himself in a tight spot after accidentally taking off in Santa’s sleigh and losing the magic toy bag, it’s up to the lovable St. Bernard, Beethoven, to come to the rescue. With just days left until Christmas, this delightful tale unfolds in a small town in Minnesota, where a young boy in need of some important life lessons, crosses paths with the elf and Beethoven.
As the story unfolds, we follow the trio’s hilarious and heartwarming journey to recover Santa’s precious toy bag from the clutches of greedy crooks. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including the scheming toy store owner, who inadvertently sets off a series of comical events.
Where to find: DVD, Blu-ray and Prime Video
Genre: Family, Comedy
11. The Dog Who Saved Christmas Vacation (2010)
Rating: PG
Overview: The Bannister family, along with their lovable canine companion, Zeus, embark on a festive holiday getaway to a ski lodge. But this vacation takes an unexpected turn when they discover that Belinda Bannister’s brother and his son are sharing their cozy condo, accompanied by the charming poodle, Bella.
Amidst the laughter and challenges of family gatherings, an exciting twist unfolds as Zeus finds himself head over paws in love with Bella. However, this Christmas escapade takes a turn when a pair of hapless jewel thieves, make an appearance, setting off a series of hilarious events.
Where to find it: Prime Video, or DVD
Genre: Family, Comedy, Family
12. Up on the Woof Top (2015)
Rating: NR
Overview: When Santa’s Dog Toby accidentally gets left behind during a test sleigh flight, he embarks on a heartwarming journey to convince the Anderson family of his true identity. Toby needs their help to find his way back to the North Pole before Christmas Eve.
Along the way, Toby becomes a source of comfort and guidance for the Anderson kids as they navigate their growing pains. Together, they must thwart the devious plans of a crooked mall Santa and his mischievous elf henchmen. But perhaps Toby’s most important mission is helping Dad rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.
Where to find: Prime Video, or DVD
Genre: Good for family with kids 12 and up.
Romantic Dog Christmas Movies
13. A Puppy for Christmas (2016)
Rating: PG
Overview: A Puppy for Christmas unveils the story of Noelle, a determined journalist, forever dreaming of cover stories and the joy of having a puppy. As her life takes unexpected turns, leaving her heartbroken and homeless, she finds solace with Liam, a rugged adventure-columnist and co-worker.
Drawn into the heartwarming embrace of Liam’s family Christmas tree farm, Noelle navigates a world of quirky holiday traditions, a mischievous puppy named Buster, and new beginnings.
Release Method: DVD, Prime Video, Hallmark Channel
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Romance
14. The Christmas Shepherd (2014)
Rating: Not Rated
Overview: Sally, a successful children’s book author and widow, is devastated when her late husband’s German Shepherd, Buddy, goes missing during a thunderstorm. Buddy is her last connection to her late husband, and she’s determined to find him.
Meanwhile, Mark, a widower, and his daughter Emma have adopted Buddy after he was rescued by a trucker. Emma, who has been struggling to make friends in their new town, forms a special bond with Buddy.
When Sally learns of Buddy’s whereabouts, she visits Mark and Emma to discuss his future. As they navigate this delicate situation, an unspoken connection begins to blossom between Sally and Mark.
Where to find it: Hallmark Channel, Amazon Prime. and DVD
Genre: Drama, Romance
15. A Very Corgi Christmas (2019)
Rating: NR
Overview: In A Very Corgi Christmas, Lauren Bradley, a dedicated professional, widow and single mom aiming to climb the corporate ladder, anticipates a quiet Christmas, planning to immerse herself in work while visiting her hometown. Yet, her plans go awry when she meets Ben and is entrusted with the responsibility of hiding the puppy for him.
Where to Find It: Prime Video, DVD, or PeacockTV
Genre: Drama, Family, Romance
16. A Golden Christmas – A Tail of Puppy Love (2009)
Rating: PG
Overview: When Jessica, a single mother and lawyer, returns to her childhood home for Christmas, she’s surprised to find it’s been sold. The new owner, Michael, is a single father with ties to the same property, reminiscing about a cherished summer camp and a special friend named “Han Solo.”
Alongside golden retrievers that seem mysteriously linked to their shared past, Jessica and Michael navigate their intertwined histories, unraveling the bond they once shared and the secrets their childhood held.
Where to find it: Prime Video, DVD, or
Genre: Comedy, Family, Drama
Dog Christmas Movies – Comedy
17. The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2009)
Rating: PG
Overview: The story begins when Zeus is adopted by the Bannister family. Then on Christmas Eve, the Bannister family leaves Zeus home alone to visit Grandma. Little do they know that two burglars, have their sights set on the family home. It’s up to Zeus to save Christmas for his newfound family by setting up clever booby traps to thwart the burglars’ plans.
As the burglars chase Zeus through the house, a comical showdown unfolds, leading to a heartwarming and unforgettable holiday experience that brings the family closer together
Where to find it: – Freeform, DVD, and Prime Video
Genre: Comedy, Adventure
18. Shelby: The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2014)
Rating: NR
Overview: When Shelby, a clever rescue dog, evades the clutches of the dog pound on a chilly Christmas Eve, fate leads him straight into the warm embrace of young Jake, an aspiring magician. Their bond is instantaneous and unbreakable, with Shelby soon becoming Jake’s magical sidekick.
However, their holiday happiness is threatened by the relentless local dogcatcher, who’s determined to capture Shelby at any cost. With Christmas hanging in the balance, Jake and his family rally together, combining love, determination, and a touch of magic in a desperate bid to shield Shelby from harm and ensure their holiday remains merry and bright.
Where to find it: DVD
Genre: Family, Comedy
19. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Rating: PG
Overview: How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a timeless tale by Dr. Seuss that captures the essence of the holiday season. In the cheerful town of Whoville, the Grinch stands as a green, reclusive figure who harbors a deep dislike for all things festive.
Fueled by his bitterness towards the Whos’ joyous Christmas celebrations, the Grinch hatches a cunning plan to strip them of their holiday merriment.
At his side is Max, his loyal yet apprehensive dog, who becomes an unwitting accomplice in the Grinch’s antics.
Where to find it: DVD, Prime Video and Blu-ray
Genre: Family, Comedy
Dog Christmas Movies – Drama
20. A Dog Named Christmas (2009)
- Rating: PG
Overview: A Dog Named Christmas is a heartwarming family film based on the novel by Greg Kincaid. The story is set in a small town in the Midwest and follows the journey of a young man with a developmental disability named Todd McCray, who decides to foster a dog from the local animal shelter during the holiday season.
As Todd brings home a dog he names Christmas, he encounters various challenges and misconceptions from his family and the community. However, he remains determined to provide a loving home for Christmas.
- Where to find it: CBS, Hallmark Hall Channel, Prime Video. and DVD
- Genre: Drama, Family
21. Charlie’s Christmas Wish (2020)
Rating: PG
Overview: Sgt. Major John Frost returns home from his deployment, anticipating a warm Christmas reunion with his family. However, the reception he envisions isn’t what he receives. His wife Jill, who’s grappling with the financial strain of her catering business, and their son Jimmy, have in his absence welcomed a new member into their family, a small terrier named Charlie.
Though initially resistant to the spirited dog, John soon realizes Charlie’s remarkable ability to bring people together.
John’s journey to reconnect is dotted with challenges, from coping with PTSD to witnessing the struggles of fellow veterans. When Charlie uncovers the plight of Hank, a homeless Vietnam vet, John’s eyes are opened to the broader struggles of veterans in his community.
Drawing strength from Charlie’s spirit, John mobilizes the town in an incredible act of solidarity, aiming to provide warmth, shelter, and a fresh start for those who have given so much.
Where to find it: Prime Video, DVD
Genre: Drama
22. Christmas with Tucker (2013)
Rated: NR
Overview: After the tragic loss of his father, George finds himself in the whirlwind of emotions while taking on the daunting task of running the family farm with his grandparents. Just when the burden seems too heavy to bear, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of Tucker, the loyal dog of his troubled neighbor, Thorne.
As Thorne faces his battles with alcoholism and ends up in jail, the bond between George and Tucker strengthens, each providing solace and support to the other.
In this poignant tale, George’s resilience is tested, not just by the challenges of the farm, but by the looming threat of losing Tucker upon Thorne’s release and the harsh blows nature deals the community. The impending storm, both metaphorical and literal, underscores the transformative power of friendship, loyalty, and love
Where to find it: Hallmark Channel, Prime Video, DVD
Genre: Drama
23. A Belle for Christmas (2014)
Rating: PG
Overview: In “A Belle for Christmas”, Glenn Barrows and his two kids, Elliot and Phoebe, still grieving the loss of their wife and mother, find joy in adopting a puppy named Belle during the holiday season. However, their newfound happiness is threatened when Glenn’s gold-digging girlfriend, Dani Downy plots to get rid of Belle. When Belle goes missing, the kids, with the help of their friends, embark on a daring Christmas Eve rescue mission to save their beloved pet.
Audience: Family-friendly
Where to find: Prime Video or DVD
Genre: Drama, Family, Comedy
We hope you found this list of Dog Christmas Movies helpful.
Dog Christmas Movies Resources
- IMDb Ratings, Reviews and Where to Watch
- Dove.org – Faith and Family-Focused Reviews for Today’s Media