The 10 Most Iconic Dogs From Film And Television According To The Times
Dogs have been stealing the show in movies and TV since the very beginning of cinema. Whether they’re loyal sidekicks, mischievous troublemakers, or heroes of their own stories, these four-legged stars often leave a bigger impression than their human co-stars.
The British newspaper The Times recently put together a list of the 25 greatest dogs to ever appear on screen, celebrating their unique personalities and unforgettable performances.
At the top of the list is Scooby-Doo, the animated Great Dane who has been solving mysteries with his friends in the Mystery Machine for more than 50 years. Scooby-Doo has entertained generations of fans, mixing humor, bravery, and a love of snacks into stories that never get old.
In second place is Lassie, the collie who started as a literary character before becoming a cinema and television legend. Acting alongside stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Lassie proved she could carry a story while showing loyalty, courage, and intelligence. She remains one of the most famous dogs in Hollywood history.
Third on the list is Toto, the little cairn terrier from The Wizard of Oz. Interestingly, the dog who played Toto, named Terry, earned $125 a week—a salary higher than many of the human actors on set at the time. Toto became a symbol of unwavering loyalty, following Dorothy on every step of her journey down the Yellow Brick Road.
The top five is rounded out by Shep, the border collie from Blue Peter, whose catchphrase “Get down, Shep!” became a staple of British childhood, and Muttley, the mischievous sidekick from Wacky Races, known for his iconic, raspy laugh. These dogs brought joy to viewers through clever antics and unforgettable personalities.
Other notable dogs on The Times list include the globe-trotting German shepherd from The Littlest Hobo, the lovable St. Bernard Beethoven from the eight-film comedy franchise, and animated stars like Gromit from Wallace and Gromit and Brian Griffin from Family Guy, whose dry wit and unique personalities won over fans.
Even K9, the robotic dog from Doctor Who, made the top ten, showing that fans will always love a loyal companion—even one made of metal. These dogs represent more than just pets; they have shaped pop culture and inspired countless stories. Whether in live-action, stop-motion, or CGI, they’ve brought heart, humor, and adventure to screens around the world.
The Times emphasizes that these dogs are not just side characters—they are stars in their own right. Their performances have reminded audiences that courage, loyalty, and charm aren’t just human traits, and that sometimes the smallest characters can make the biggest impact.
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