First A DOG’S PURPOSE Trailer Experience the first A DOG’S PURPOSE trailer! The film, directed by Lasse Hallström (Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, Chocolat), stars Britt Robertson, Dennis Quaid, John Ortiz, and Josh Gad. A DOG’S PURPOSE will be released in theaters on January 27, 2017. A dog looks to discover his purpose in life over the course of several lifetimes and owners.