2020 TOP DOG FILM PROGRAMME

8 minutes

Gnarly skiing, deep powder and an off-grid cabin aren’t just fun for humans – they’re great for dogs too! A snowboarder and a skier head deep into the mountains with their two snow-loving dogs, Kicker and Gru, for a spectacular winter adventure. Adventure Dogs highlights the incredible bond that connects humans and dogs in the wild, on a backcountry expedition that will never be forgotten.

24 minutes

Dogs can be life-changing companions, and sometimes they are even more than that. Odd Jobs for Dogs meets extraordinary dogs who have dedicated their lives to lending a helping paw, from Hoki who helps monitor protected species, to Rasy, who wards off pesky seagulls along the Sydney seafront. And we guarantee you’ll fall in love with Tiffany the real estate model! These diligent dogs take pride and pleasure from their work, and spread endless joy along the way. 

7 minutes

Californian surfer Ryan Rustan has led a troubled life, falling into a rough crowd as a young man. His path to healing came in an unlikely form: meeting and rescuing a former street dog, Sugar, who would also become his surfing partner. Ryan says that Sugar taught him how to love, and he is now on a mission to share that love with others through surf therapy, art and a love of animals.

5 minutes

Eclipse the labrador loves the dog park – so much so that she took herself there one day by catching the bus! Eclipse is now a regular feature on Seattle’s public transport, brightening the lives of commuters and bus drivers alike (although she hasn’t yet bought a ticket). Introducing Seattle’s legendary bus riding dog.

23 minutes

New Zealand farmer Paul Sorenson has a unique connection with his colleagues — a team of sheep dogs. For 40 years, he’s worked to develop smarter and more intuitive training methods for fellow farmers, while grappling with memories of a difficult childhood. Reaching retirement, the veteran dog whisperer passes his knowledge to the next generation of shepherds and reflects on the sacrifices he’s made to pursue his intense passion for dogs. 

13 minutes

In the mountains of Costa Rica, Lya Battle and her husband Alvaro are living every dog lover’s dream – to rescue every dog in need that they see. Even taking in dogs thought to be beyond recovery, their 375-acre farm is home to more than 1,000 pups. Their passion and dedication offers a second-chance to these animals, and hope for those who have yet to be found. A glimpse at how two people can make a big difference.

7 minutes

In their quest to treat dogs like members of the family, some pet owners supply their pets with everything from ‘pawdicures’ and full-on wardrobes, to five-star hotels and private chefs. But not all pup-lovers think that treating dogs like children is what’s best for them. Why People Treat Dogs Like Humans ask if some dog owners go too far, and looks at the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective.

12 minutes

In the snowiest region of Minnesota, Blake and Jennifer Freking have two children and over 60 purebred Siberian huskies. With over 20 years’ experience of working with the breed, they have competed in numerous long-distance dog-sled races. Lure of the North explores the challenges of living and raising children off-grid, and captures the Frekings’ devotion to the sport, their spirit of adventure and their commitment to the wellbeing of their fluffy family.