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It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable is a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

Whether these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)

The story strives to give weight to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a great one either.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.