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This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.

Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow clinging to lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.

The Canine Charisma

Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.