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This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.

While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects piled on green trees as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)

The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.