Top 10 Movies Where the Dog Should Have Won an Oscar

Film critics and cinema-goers have spent countless hours debating the finest performances of the silver screen. From Brando's raw intensity in On the Waterfront to Meryl Streep 's chameleonic talent in, well, everything, the Academy's chosen pantheon is filled with unquestionable talent. But today, we're not here to discuss the typical Hollywood darlings. No, we are here to give credit where it's truly overdue: our four-legged, tail-wagging, Oscar-deserving canine friends.

1. Toto in The Wizard of Oz (1939)

The opening entry on our list is no less than one of the most iconic dogs in cinematic history, Toto, from The Wizard of Oz. Played by Terry the Cairn Terrier, Toto's natural charisma and utter commitment to the role are undeniable. With just a glance or a bark, Toto conveys a depth of emotion that rivals some of the human actors. And who saved Dorothy from the poppy field? That's right, our Oscar-deserving pup.

2. The Tramp in Lady and the Tramp (1955)

Let's be clear: I know The Tramp was animated. I get it. But listen, this is not a list about realism, it's a list about true performances that touch our hearts. And The Tramp did just that. He was funny, he was smooth, he was rebellious and, by golly, he could eat spaghetti in a way that would make any Italian chef weep with joy. An Oscar-worthy display, don't you think?

3. Hooch in Turner & Hooch (1989)

Drooling, destructive, but oh-so-lovable, Beasley the Dogue de Bordeaux (yes, that's a real breed) gave a performance in Turner & Hooch that was nothing short of astounding. He embodied the character of Hooch with such authenticity, it would've been easy to believe this wasn't a performance at all but rather a documentary of a dog's life in a small town. The on-screen chemistry between Hooch and Tom Hanks was palpable. I mean, Hooch even managed to upstage Hanks, and that's saying something!

4. Beethoven in Beethoven (1992)

Ah, Beethoven. The St. Bernard that gave us all unrealistic expectations of what owning a giant dog would be like. Played by a series of equally talented and drool-prone St. Bernards, Beethoven's exuberant spirit and unyielding loyalty captivated audiences worldwide. Let's be real, how many human actors could pull off such a convincingly joyful performance while covered in slobber?

5. Shadow and Chance in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

We're cheating a bit here, but hear me out: both Shadow, the wise Golden Retriever, and Chance, the feisty American Bulldog, gave performances that were unforgettable. From Shadow's calm demeanor and sage wisdom to Chance's comedic timing and unending energy, they embodied the depth and range of canine acting. Plus, who didn't shed a tear when Shadow limped down that hill at the end? Pure Oscar gold.

6. Milo in The Mask (1994)

Jim Carrey 's over-the-top performance as Stanley Ipkiss in The Mask is a hard act to follow, but Max, who played his faithful dog Milo, certainly held his own. This Jack Russell Terrier's comedic antics and facial expressions stole every scene he was in, making him the true star of the show. He even managed to wear the infamous green mask with more grace and charm than anyone else in the cast.

7. Buddy in Air Bud (1997)

Okay, tell me, how many humans can shoot a basketball with their nose or hit a baseball with their paw? Buddy, played by a talented Golden Retriever named Air Buddy, showed not just a range of emotions but also a range of athletic abilities in this 90s classic. Buddy made us laugh, he made us cry, and he made us wish our dogs were half as cool as him. Isn't that what a good performance is all about?

8. Skip in My Dog Skip (2000)

Now, here's an understated and powerful performance. Played by two Jack Russell Terriers named Enzo and Moose, Skip showed us the beauty and simplicity of a boy-and-his-dog story. Skip's wide-eyed innocence and bravery had us rooting for him throughout the film, and we cheered as he helped his human, Willie, navigate the ups and downs of life. A raw and honest portrayal worthy of the golden statuette.

9. Marley in Marley & Me (2008)

Marley, played by a cadre of Labs, made us laugh with his antics and cry with his undying loyalty. Who could forget the scene of him pulling Jennifer Aniston through the snow or Owen Wilson's tearful goodbye at the end? These were not just scenes; these were masterful strokes of canine acting. His portrayal of love, loyalty, and mischief should have warranted the Academy's attention.

10. Uggie in The Artist (2011)

Perhaps the most 'modern' entry on our list, Uggie the Jack Russell Terrier, showcased his immense talent in the critically acclaimed film, The Artist. Silent films are tough; they demand more from an actor, but Uggie proved that he was up to the task. With every tilt of his head and wag of his tail, Uggie expressed a myriad of emotions, capturing the audience's hearts and minds. A truly Oscar-worthy performance.