Pick of the Litter

Pick of the Litter
7.697%90%
Follows a litter of puppies from the moment they're born and begin their quest to become Guide Dogs for the Blind, the ultimate canine career. Cameras follow these pups through a two-year odyssey as they train to become dogs whose ultimate responsibility is to protect their blind partners from harm.
Manuel Frangis reviewedMarch 17, 2025
I just watched Pick of the Litter, and it is an easy 5 out of 5 stars for me. My girlfriend got me to watch this, and I loved it so much. This is one of those documentaries that pulls you in right away and keeps you completely invested from start to finish. It is emotional, uplifting, and fascinating to watch. If you love dogs or just enjoy a great real life story, this is a must watch.
The documentary follows a group of Labrador Retriever puppies as they go through the process of becoming guide dogs for the blind. It is not just about the training. It is about the journey, the people involved, and the incredible bond between humans and dogs. You get to see every step, from the moment they are born to the moment they either succeed or take a different path. The level of dedication and hard work that goes into training these dogs is amazing.
What really makes Pick of the Litter special is how well it tells the story. The pacing is great, keeping you engaged without ever feeling too slow or rushed. Each puppy has its own personality, and you quickly become attached to them. Some moments are funny, others are emotional, and some are genuinely tense as you watch to see if they will make it. The way the film balances all of these emotions makes it a great watch.
Beyond the puppies, the documentary also does a great job of showing the people who train them. You get to see the incredible dedication of the volunteers, trainers, and the people who eventually receive the dogs. It adds another layer of depth to the story, making it even more meaningful. The impact these dogs have on people’s lives is truly inspiring, and the film does a great job of capturing that.
One of the best things about Pick of the Litter is that it is not just a feel good documentary. It shows the challenges and the reality of the process. Not every puppy makes it, and that is what keeps you on edge. There is always that uncertainty of whether they will pass the rigorous training or if they will have to take a different path. That level of unpredictability makes it even more engaging.
The cinematography is simple but effective. The way the film captures the dogs and their journey makes you feel like you are right there with them. Every shot is warm and inviting, pulling you into the world of these incredible animals. The editing is also great, keeping the story moving while making sure you stay connected to each dog’s progress.
Another thing that stands out is how educational the film is without ever feeling like a lecture. You learn so much about what it takes to train a guide dog, the challenges involved, and how much effort goes into making sure they are ready for their important role. But it never feels like you are being overloaded with information. Everything is presented in a way that keeps it interesting and easy to follow.
This is the kind of documentary that stays with you long after you watch it. It is heartwarming, inspiring, and just a genuinely great film. Whether you are a dog lover or just someone who appreciates a well told story, this is a documentary worth watching.
Pick of the Litter is one of the best feel good documentaries I have seen. It is emotional, engaging, and beautifully made. It is a rare film that makes you laugh, cry, and learn something all at the same time. My girlfriend got me to watch it, and I am so glad she did. Definitely one of my favorites, and one I will be recommending to everyone.