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This is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in pet despair, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.

The Dog's Domain

If these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Human Element

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. The character seems a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)

The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.

• Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.