Google searches spike for "does the dog die in Good Boy" after trailer release

Google searches for "does the dog die in Good Boy" soared 2,000% after the chilling trailer dropped.


Pop Culture & Art August 21, 2025 1 min read
Photo: SXSW

Google searches for “does the dog die in Good Boy” have surged by more than 2,000% following the release of the film’s first trailer, highlighting the curiosity and concern among horror fans.

The upcoming supernatural horror film, directed by Ben Leonberg, follows a haunted house story through the eyes of a loyal dog named Indy.

In Good Boy, Indy and his owner Todd move into a rural farmhouse after a family tragedy. As Todd struggles with grief, Indy begins sensing dark paranormal activity that his human companion cannot see. The trailer, which debuted ahead of the film’s October 6 theatrical release, quickly caught the attention of horror communities online.

One of the most pressing questions viewers have raised is whether Indy, the dog, dies during the film. While horror audiences often accept graphic violence against human characters, the potential harm of an animal tends to spark widespread backlash. However, early viewers who attended Good Boy’s sold-out premiere at SXSW in March confirm that Indy survives the story.

Adding to the reassurance, Indy is not just a character but also the real-life pet of Leonberg. Over three years of filming, Leonberg and producer Kari Fischer carefully trained Indy to perform without the use of CGI. Critics praised both the film and Indy’s natural performance, fueling discussions about whether the canine star could even earn awards recognition.

Good Boy will premiere in theaters on October 6, distributed by IFC Films, before heading to Shudder. With fan anticipation rising and online search interest surging, the film has already cemented itself as one of the most talked-about horror releases of the year.

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