Halloween movies are at their best when they can give us laughs as well as chills…without upsetting the furry members of the cast.
From loyal dogs who light up the screen to mischievous cats who steal every scene, these seven pet performances bring warmth to spooky stories. Best of all: nothing terrible happens to these animals in their films, so they’re perfect for family viewing.
Let’s get spooked…
1. Toto — The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Toto is cinema’s ageless companion: brave, curious and always by Dorothy’s side. While The Wizard of Oz isn’t a Halloween movie per se, its magical world and fantastical creatures make it a perfect family watch for the season — and Toto never faces harm in a way that would upset viewers.
2. Einstein — Back to the Future (1985)
In Back to the Future, Doc Brown’s faithful dog Einstein appears in affectionate, funny moments that humanise the time-travel chaos. Einstein’s presence grounds the story and gives it a homely, reassuring feel… perfect for families who want light adventure without distressing animal storylines.
3. Zero — The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The ghost-dog Zero is the sweetest spectral sidekick in Tim Burton’s stop-motion classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas. With his little glowing nose and unfailing loyalty to Jack Skellington, Zero adds a gentle, whimsical note to a film that could otherwise be a little dark. He’s comforting, adorable, and an emotional anchor. Though, this film may be a little unsettling for younger viewers.
4. Salem — Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996-2003)
Salem — the witty, plotting cat with a past — is a classic from 90s gem Sabrina the Teenage Witch. He’s mischievous and charming, always saying or doing the wrong (hilarious) thing at the right moment. Crucially, Salem’s antics are played for laughs and never put him in true peril; he’s the comic relief you can trust.
5. Frank the Pug — Men in Black (1997)
Frank the Pug is a fan favourite: a blunt, deadpan sidekick with plenty of personality. He might be an unusual addition to a Halloween list, but Men in Black and the franchise’s later films have that playful-spooky energy, and Frank’s scenes are always light-hearted and fun.
6. Goose — Captain Marvel (2019)
Goose looks like a cat, acts like a cat, and then surprises everyone by being something else entirely — a Flerken. The scenes from Captain Marvel with Goose are equal parts adorable and hilarious, and the creature’s antics bring comic relief rather than danger. For older kids and families who like a light sci-fi twist to their Halloween watchlist, Goose is a winner.
7. Hades — Roald Dahl’s The Witches (2020)
Hades is the kind of cat who makes a scene instantly better. In this family-with-older-kids retelling of Roald Dahl’s The Witches, this sleek feline brings an eerie elegance to the frame — a little unsettling, but never in danger. Hades helps give the movie its spooky mood. For families watching at Halloween, Hades is a reminder that atmospheric pets can add drama without there being any distress.
Loved These Furry Screen Steals?
Visit our Facebook page, keep an eye out for our “Top Pet Performances” post, and drop your favourite pet performance in the comments.
And if you’re looking to do more than watch fall films with your furry friend, don’t forget to check out our list of autumnal activities to do with your pet this season. 🐾
