Watch We Don't Deserve Dogs

We Don't Deserve Dogs is a documentary film that explores the complex and multifaceted relationships between humans and dogs. Released in 2020, the film is directed by Matthew Salleh and produced by Rose Tucker. The film is a collection of vignettes shot in various countries around the world. In each vignette, Salleh and his crew interview dog owners, trainers, veterinarians, and other experts to understand the unique bond between humans and dogs.

The film starts with an interview with a truck driver in Uruguay who travels across the country with his dog, Negro. The truck driver talks about how Negro is his only companion on the road and how he feels a strong sense of responsibility towards him.

The next segment takes place in Ukraine, where a group of homeless dog owners form a community around their canine companions. The dogs are not formally trained, but they serve as protectors and companions to their owners. One of the dog owners talks about how his dog, Sona, helped him escape from the police when he was involved in a fight.

The film then travels to Nepal, where dogs are believed to have spiritual qualities. A group of monks at the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu talk about their belief that dogs can bring good fortune and help humans achieve enlightenment.

The film also features segments shot in Australia, Japan, Scotland, and the United States. In Australia, a group of sheep farmers explain how their working dogs are essential to their livelihood. In Japan, a woman who runs a dog cafe talks about how her cafe provides a space for dog lovers to interact with dogs in the absence of a pet of their own. In Scotland, a man who lost his dog in a skiing accident talks about how his community came together to help him find closure. In the United States, a group of veterans with PTSD talk about how service dogs have transformed their lives.

Throughout the film, Salleh highlights the ways in which dogs have impacted human culture and society. He shows how dogs have been used for work, companionship, protection, sports, and therapy. He also explores the darker side of human-dog relationships, including issues such as dog fighting, breed discrimination, and euthanasia.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way in which it captures the emotional and psychological connections between humans and dogs. The interviews with dog owners provide moving examples of the ways in which dogs can act as sources of comfort, support, and healing. The film also highlights the way in which dogs can bring people together, whether it's through community events or social media groups.

Overall, We Don't Deserve Dogs is a poignant and thought-provoking film that sheds light on the unique relationship between humans and dogs. It explores the various roles that dogs have played in human history and culture, while also showing the ways in which dogs continue to shape our lives today. Whether you're a dog lover or not, this film will leave you with a greater appreciation for the bond between humans and animals.

We Don't Deserve Dogs is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.