The Ugly Dachshund - A Movie Review

This is not your average Great Dane. He thinks that he’s a Dachshund.

The Ugly Dachshund was released to theaters in 1966. After their Dachshund gives birth to a litter of puppies, the Garrison’s bring home another guest. Brutus, a Great Dane, thinks he’s a dachshund. It’s not long until the Garrison’s house falls into shambles as Brutus tries to understand his true identity.

I watched The Ugly Dachshund several times when I was a kid. Dog films are the best. They are the greatest films to make you laugh. Cleverly viewing the story from the eyes of a Great Dane, I was surprised by how many plot elements differed to me watching it as an adult.

Dean Jones and Suzanne Pleshette were wonderful as a married couple. Though, I have a lot to say about their dynamic. Bickering throughout most of the film, Mark and Fran learn a valuable lesson that improves their relationship.

Jones is credible in his comedic deliveries. His reactions were the best. I enjoyed his interaction with Brutus and the other dogs. Unfortunately, he does not have his luck throughout the film. Having a different viewpoint of the world, his mind is opening up to a relationship he never thought about. Dogs add value to our lives.

I have mixed feelings about Fran. She is so involved and obsessed with her dachshunds that she hardly pays any attention to her husband. Fran doesn’t take notice of Mark’s interests, nor does she let him have a say on a significant day. Growth is a major theme in The Ugly Dachshund. By learning to accept Brutus, Fran becomes more open.

The Ugly Dachshund would not be what it is without the ensemble. Credits include the talents of Charles Ruggles, Kelly Thordsen, Parley Baer, Robert Kino, Mako, and a whole ensemble of party guests who get trapped in a whirlwind of chaos.

The dogs were adorable! Seriously, filmmakers spoiled audiences with as many close-ups and scenes of the dogs. I want to know how they directed the dogs to run around with knitting thread or tearing up Mark’s art studio. Boy, did the furniture not have its luck in the Garrison home.

I really felt like a knew Brutus, The camera studied his emotions closely making us feel his confusion about who he is. He is a loyal dog who looks out for his family - even the other dachshunds. I got a kick out of how he hunched over on the ground acting like he was a dachshund. Not only humans, but dogs can have an identity crisis, too.

Oh boy, did these dog actors have the time of their lives on set! Running around causing chaos, I was laughing out loud. Dog lovers need to watch this film. As pet owners, we have many stories to tell about our furry pets.

Norman Toker established a character dynamic. Toker knew how to do comedy for this film. He created the best running gags that never get old anytime you watch it. The dog actors were trained wonderfully - particularly Brutus. Everybody can change - especially dogs. Life is all about finding your place.

The Ugly Dachshund has never lost its charm. It’s a classic. Nothing feels forced. This film is meant to make audiences laugh and make audiences connect.

I am so glad that I watched The Ugly Dachshund again. It was a favorite of mine in my childhood. As an adult, it’s fascinating what subtle features you miss in films. The Ugly Dachshund is a fun film for all dog lovers. Get the whole family together and watch it.