15 dog movies ranked by how much you’ll cry

2. Where the Red Fern Grows (2003)

The original Where the Red Fern Grows came out in 1974, but the 2003 version is equally devastating. Both are based on the 1961 children’s novel of the same name by Wilson Rawls. The story follows young Billy Colman as he works to earn the money to get the dogs he’s always wanted, then as he picks them up, trains them to hunt, and learns about responsibility.

Several people get injured or die in this story, but what’s significantly more devastating is the death of the dogs. Old Dan is mortally wounded by a mountain lion before Billy can kill the lion with his axe, and then once Old Dan is buried, his companion Little Ann loses the will to live and lies on his grave day in and day out. When she dies, Billy buries her beside Old Dan. It’s… horrible. It’s so sad.

When Billy’s family wants to move, he goes to say goodbye to his dogs at their graves and finds a red fern growing. Supposedly, only an angel can plant a red fern. The sight of the plant gives Billy the strength to go with his family on this new adventure.

Have at least two boxes of tissues ready if you watch any version of this movie. Maybe three. Just to be safe. Don’t expect to be able to do anything else all night without thinking about Where the Red Fern Grows and bursting into tears, either. It’s one of the most famously sad dog movies ever, and for good reason.

Likelihood of making you cry: 10/10