The Dog Film Festival is annually celebrated in October or November. This year, it takes place on October 1. It allows us to appreciate our furry pals through short films and cherish the bonds we have with them. The holiday pays respect to the dedication and loyalty dogs show to humans. It also celebrates their history, from ages gone by to those that have yet to come.
History of Dog Film Festival
Dogs have every quality we wish for in a pet: a fearless protector, an all-time companion, unlimited snuggles, and enthusiastic tail wagging. For most owners, dogs are part of their family. According to genetic studies, dogs descend directly from wolves. The process was slow and happened somewhere between 27,000 and 40,000 years ago. Today, there exist hundreds of dog breeds, from Alaskan Malamutes to Rottweilers to Welsh Corgis.
The history of movies and movie festivals is relatively new compared to dogs. The art of cinematography evolved around the 1890s. “The Story of the Kelly Gang” is the first feature-length multi-reel film. It was released in 1906. The evolution of motion pictures accelerated after the movie was released. By 1914, voice-synchronized films began to be created. Charles Taze Russell made the first movie with picture slides and moving pictures synchronized with music and conversation records.
Soon after, dogs began appearing in moves as well. For example, Jean, a tricolor Scotch collie from Maine, appeared in more than 25 silent films and became the first dog to be featured in a movie. After Jean, numerous dogs, such as Cheddar and Wishbone, were cast as loyal pets, handsome saviors, and best friends. Over time, animated dogs like Scooby-Doo and Santa’s Little Helper came to the screen.
Dog Film Festival timeline
Wolves slowly evolve into dogs, who are much friendlier toward humans.
French artist and inventor Louis Le Prince patents a camera capable of filming motion on January 10.
Jean, a tricolor Scotch collie from Maine, stars in over 25 silent films.
The NY Dog Film Festival begins in New York.
Dog Film Festival FAQs
What is the most common dog in movies?
German Shepherds are the most common breed of dogs used in movies.
Do dogs in movies get paid?
Yes, dogs do get paid. Dog owners can earn around $50 a day for entry-level work.
What is the most common pet in the world?
Dogs are the most popular pets worldwide, with cats coming in second.
Dog Film Festival Activities
Gift a ticket
Do you have a pet-loving friend or family member? Gift them a ticket to the Dog Film Festival. You can join them as well.
Participate in the festival
The Dog Film Festival begins in New York, works across the East Coast, and eventually crosses the borders to Canada. Have some fun when the festival reaches your city.
Watch a movie with your pet
Do you have a pet? Dogs love the company of their human friends. So, spend an entire day with your sweet boy or gal. You can watch a dog movie as well.
5 Amazing Facts About Dogs That You Should Know
As smart as a toddler
A dog can be as intelligent as a two-year-old toddler.
Millions of dogs in the U.S.
There are more than 89 million pet dogs in the U.S.
A better hearing capacity
Dogs can hear sounds four times better than humans.
One going on 15
The first year of a dog’s life is equal to 15 human years.
Toxic chocolate and caffeine
Alcoholic drinks, avocado, caffeine, and chocolate are toxic to dogs.
Why We Love Dog Film Festival
It celebrates dogs
The Dog Film Festival is dedicated to dogs. It allows us to cherish the gift of friendship and loyalty we receive from our four-legged partner.
It allows us to watch dog heroics
Dogs can be heroes as well. They can save babies from falling into the water, defend their owners from intruders, and even ease depression! The Dog Film Festival encourages us to watch videos made to showcase the charm possessed by dogs.
It encourages dog appreciation
Many people don’t appreciate or like dogs. However, the Dog Film Festival can help dog lovers prompt other people to recognize the value of dogs through movies and specific plays.
Dog Film Festival dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 24 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 26 | Sunday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
