This curated selection of war films highlights the often overlooked heroes of military conflicts: the border guard dogs. These films not only entertain but also educate viewers about the vital roles these animals play in protecting borders, detecting threats, and supporting soldiers. Each film in this list offers a unique perspective on the bond between humans and their canine companions, showcasing courage, loyalty, and the harsh realities of war.

Turner & Hooch (1989)
Description: Although not directly about border guard dogs, this film showcases the partnership between a detective and his dog, Hooch, who helps solve a murder case, reflecting the spirit of canine loyalty and service.
Fact: The film was remade for Disney+ in 2021, and the original dog, Beasley, was so large that he had to be carried by a forklift for some scenes.


Red Dog (2011)
Description: While not about border guard dogs, this Australian film tells the story of a wandering dog who becomes a legend, reflecting the spirit of loyalty and community service.
Fact: The film is based on a true story, and the dog, Red Dog, is a well-known figure in Western Australia.


The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019)
Description: Although not about border guard dogs, this film explores the life of a race car driver through the eyes of his loyal dog, Enzo, showcasing the deep bond between humans and their pets.
Fact: The film is based on a best-selling novel by Garth Stein, and the dog playing Enzo was trained to perform various complex actions for the movie.


A Dog's Purpose (2017)
Description: This film follows a dog through several reincarnations, one of which involves working as a police dog, highlighting the versatility and dedication of dogs in various roles.
Fact: The film faced controversy over animal treatment on set, leading to a documentary being made about the conditions.


K-9 Adventures: Legend of the Lost Gold (2014)
Description: This family adventure film features a dog named Scooby who helps his owner find lost treasure, showcasing the intelligence and bravery of dogs in adventurous settings.
Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, and the dog playing Scooby was trained to perform various stunts.


Max (2015)
Description: This film tells the story of a military dog, Max, who returns home after his handler's death and bonds with the handler's younger brother, highlighting the emotional and psychological support dogs provide.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories of military working dogs, and the dog playing Max was trained by the same company that trains dogs for the U.S. military.


A Dog's Way Home (2019)
Description: While not specifically about border guard dogs, this film features a dog named Bella who travels 400 miles to return home, showcasing the determination and loyalty of dogs in challenging situations.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations across Canada and the U.S., and the dog playing Bella was a rescue dog named Shelby.


K-9: P.I. (2002)
Description: While not strictly about border guard dogs, this film features a police dog, Jerry Lee, who assists in solving crimes, offering a light-hearted take on the bond between a dog and its handler in a law enforcement setting.
Fact: The film is a sequel to the 1989 comedy "K-9," and it was one of the last films to feature the original Jerry Lee, played by a dog named Rando.


K-911 (1999)
Description: Another entry in the K-9 series, this film follows Detective Dooley and his new K-9 partner, Jerry Lee II, as they tackle crime, reflecting the ongoing theme of canine assistance in law enforcement.
Fact: This film was the third in the K-9 series, and it featured a new dog playing Jerry Lee, as the original had passed away.


The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986)
Description: Although not about border guard dogs, this film follows the adventures of a cat and dog, showcasing the bond and loyalty between animals, which can be paralleled to the bond between border guard dogs and their handlers.
Fact: The film was originally released in Japan and was later dubbed into English, with narration by Dudley Moore.
