While traditional romantic storylines often rely on canine companionship as a plot device, some films challenge these notions by subverting the expected narrative. In (2016), a Belgian drama, the protagonist's relationship with his dog serves as a commentary on loneliness and isolation, rather than a catalyst for romance. This film, along with others like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), which features a scene with a dog as a symbol of lost love, highlights the complexities of human emotions and relationships.