Have you ever watched the classic 1987 film Planes, Trains and Automobiles and found yourself wondering about the dog? It’s a common point of curiosity for fans and first-time viewers alike. Many searches for the Planes Trains And Automobiles Dog are driven by a memorable moment that perfectly captures the film’s charm. However, the “dog” in question isn’t a four-legged character but a classic piece of dialogue from the unforgettable Del Griffith, played by John Candy. It’s a simple line that speaks volumes about the weary journey he and Neal Page (Steve Martin) endure.
This article will dive into that specific scene, unpack the meaning behind the famous quote, and clarify whether a canine companion ever actually appears in this beloved holiday movie.
The character Del Griffith from Planes, Trains and Automobiles looking tired on an airplane, a reference to the 'my dogs are barking' scene.
The Famous ‘My Dogs Are Barking’ Scene
The moment the planes trains and automobiles dog query refers to happens early in the film. Neal Page, a marketing executive desperate to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving, finds his flight delayed and rerouted. To his dismay, he is stuck next to Del Griffith, a talkative and overly friendly shower curtain ring salesman.
As they sit side-by-side on the plane, Del tries to make conversation while Neal desperately wants to be left alone to read his magazine. After a bit of rambling, Del takes off his shoes, settles in, and delivers the iconic line with a sigh of relief:
“Oh, I’m telling you… my dogs are barking.”
Neal Page looks on in mild disgust, adding another layer of frustration to his already disastrous travel day. This small interaction is a perfect example of the comedic genius of the film, highlighting the clash between Neal’s uptight personality and Del’s folksy, down-to-earth nature. It’s a subtle but hilarious moment that sets the stage for the rest of their chaotic journey together.
What Does ‘My Dogs Are Barking’ Actually Mean?
For those unfamiliar with the expression, Del Griffith’s complaint might be confusing. “My dogs are barking” is a classic American idiom that simply means “my feet are sore or tired.” The term “dogs” has been used as slang for feet since the early 20th century.
In the context of the film, Del has likely been on his feet all day, traveling and hauling his large trunk. His exclamation is a relatable expression of physical exhaustion from the strains of travel. It’s a colorful, folksy phrase that perfectly suits his character—a man who is unpretentious and perhaps a bit old-fashioned. The line works so well because it’s both a funny non-sequitur for those who don’t know the idiom and a perfectly understandable complaint for those who do.
Was There Ever a Real Dog in the Movie?
So, to answer the core question directly: no, there is no actual dog featured in Planes, Trains and Automobiles. The film’s narrative is tightly focused on the human story of Neal and Del, two complete opposites who are forced to rely on each other to get home. Their journey is the heart of the movie, filled with hilarious mishaps, moments of genuine frustration, and ultimately, unexpected friendship.
The story is about human connection, empathy, and the trials of holiday travel. Adding an animal character would have shifted the focus away from the central dynamic between the two main characters. The “dog” reference remains purely a figure of speech, a memorable quote that has become a piece of movie trivia.
The Legacy of a Simple Line
Why does this one line about barking dogs stick with so many people? It’s a testament to John Candy’s brilliant performance and the sharp writing of director John Hughes.
- Character Depth: The line instantly tells you a lot about Del Griffith. He’s not a man who complains about “podiatric discomfort”; he’s a man whose “dogs are barking.” It makes him feel real and relatable.
- Relatable Humor: Anyone who has endured a long travel day can understand the feeling of having sore feet. The phrase captures that universal feeling in a humorous and memorable way.
- Comedic Contrast: The line is the perfect contrast to Neal Page’s sterile, corporate personality. It’s one of the first of many small things Del does that gets under Neal’s skin, creating the comedic tension that drives the film.
Dr. Sarah Miller, a fictional film studies expert, notes, “It’s the small, character-driven moments like the ‘barking dogs’ line that make Planes, Trains and Automobiles a classic. It’s not just about the big comedic set pieces; it’s about how these two different men communicate and eventually come to understand one another. That single line is a masterclass in character introduction.”
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Travelers, Not a Dog
In the end, the search for the planes trains and automobiles dog leads not to a furry friend but to a classic piece of movie dialogue. Del Griffith’s complaint about his “barking dogs” is a small but brilliant moment that encapsulates the film’s unique blend of comedy, character, and relatable travel woes. It’s a line that has stuck with audiences for decades, proving that sometimes the most memorable movie moments are the simplest ones. So, the next time you’re on a long trip and your feet start to ache, you can thank Del Griffith for giving you the perfect way to describe it.
