When an adorable golden retriever mix named Gonker goes missing along the Appalachian Trail, his haphazard owner (Johnny Berchtold) will stop at nothing to get him back. Based on a true story, Dog Gone shows the lengths one family will go to keep their beloved pet safe. The movie hits Netflix Jan. 13. 

Bob Mahoney/Netflix

Johnny Berchtold

Fielding is a recent college grad seeking direction in life. Unlike his friends, who’ve embarked on their career paths already, he’s jobless — which creates tension with his dad. Thankfully, he finds companionship with his adopted dog, Gonker, who becomes his best friend and is a daily comfort — until Gonker goes missing. 

Berchtold is most well-known from his TikTok videos that poke fun at acting and character clichés. He’s been featured in the series The Wilds and Gaslit, among others. 

You can follow Berchtold on Instagram and TikTok. 

Bob Mahoney/Netflix

Rob Lowe

Fielding’s quippy dad, John, worries about his son’s direction in life — but despite it all, he has his back. John is initially less than thrilled about having to help take care of Gonker, but the two eventually bond. After Gonker runs away, John becomes singularly focused on getting him back.

The film’s executive producer, Parks and Rec actor Rob Lowe can be seen in the television drama 9-1-1: Lone Star. Dog Gone is Lowe’s first film since starring in 2019’s Holiday in the Wild opposite Sex and the City star Kristin Davis. 

You can follow Lowe on Instagram. 

Kimberly Williams-Paisley

John’s wife and Fielding’s mother, Ginny, is the organizer of the family rescue mission. She tirelessly contacts animal shelters, local newspapers and community support groups to get Gonker back. The project is especially personal for her: When she was a girl, she was left traumatized when her beloved dog Oji was struck by a car. 

Kimberly Williams-Paisley got her big break playing Steve Martin’s daughter in Father of the Bride and later starred in the comedy series According to Jim. More recently, she was featured in A Nashville Country Christmas. 

You can follow Williams-Paisley on Instagram. 

Bob Mahoney/Netflix

Nick Peine

Fielding’s grad school–bound best buddy, Nate, was with Fielding on the day Gonker disappeared and feels responsible for the mishap. Wracked with guilt, he ends up going on his own solo mission to search for his pal’s dog. 

Nick Peine played Marcus on the comedy series A.P. Bio. He was also featured in Office Christmas Party and Just Getting Started.

You can follow Peine on Instagram.