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It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable seems rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow piled on lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.