Must Love Dogs

Sarah Nolan, a devoted preschool teacher, faces increasing pressure from her family to start dating again following her recent divorce. This social pressure sets the stage for her sister Carol to take action and help Sarah reenter the dating world.

In an effort to assist Sarah, her sister Carol creates an online dating profile on perfectmatch.com. The profile features Sarah's high school graduation photo, emphasizing her curvy figure and love for dogs, while also revealing personal details that attract potential matches.

Sarah embarks on a journey of online dating, but her experiences quickly become disheartening as she encounters a variety of unsuitable candidates. These ill-fated dates include a weepy romantic and a rule-breaker, leaving Sarah feeling frustrated and discouraged.

Jake Anderson, another recent divorcee, is introduced as someone who is more interested in perfecting his boat designs than pursuing love. His friend Charlie believes he needs motivation, leading to a setup with Sherry, a woman from their social circle.

Jake's first meeting with Sherry at an art gallery turns out to be painfully awkward, leaving him feeling detached from the prospect of romance. Charlie later informs Jake about Sarah's profile, suggesting a potential date that he reluctantly agrees to.

The first date between Sarah and Jake takes place at a local dog park, but it quickly becomes uncomfortable. Jake arrives with a borrowed terrier and scrutinizes Sarah's profile, leading to a tense confrontation over his dishonesty about the dog.

As their relationship develops, Sarah and Jake begin to share intimate dinners where they reveal painful aspects of their pasts. Sarah discusses the disinterest of her former husband in family life and how he has moved on with a younger partner.

During one of their evenings together, Sarah and Jake prepare to take their relationship to the next level but realize they forgot to bring condoms. Their ensuing frantic quest around town adds a humorous twist to their intimate moment.

Sarah’s connection with Bob Connor takes a troubling turn when she finds him along with June, her coworker, in a compromising situation. Hurt and embarrassed, she retreats from the scene, unknowing that she has left her wallet behind.

Together at Michael's, Jake and Sarah share a tender moment that culminates in a kiss. This intimate moment is quickly interrupted by Bob, who arrives to return Sarah's forgotten wallet, leading to an unexpected kiss that leaves Jake feeling disheartened.

A phone call from Sarah to Bob leads to a passionate night at a hotel, showcasing her struggle to move on from her previous relationship. However, the morning reveals Bob's deceit, as Sarah discovers he's still entangled with June.

While grabbing coffee, Jake has a pivotal conversation with Bill, who offers insights about Sarah's feelings. This talk gives Jake perspective on his own emotions and helps him realize the potential for a deeper connection with Sarah.

Sarah begins to decode her own feelings as she observes various signs leading her back to Jake. This emotional journey occurs amidst her previous struggles with relationships, prompting her to reconsider her previous choices.

In a climactic moment, a group of spirited girls orchestrates a rescue mission that brings Sarah and Jake together at the lake shores. Under the stars, they share a pivotal kiss that solidifies their connection, marking a turning point in their relationship.

The relationship between Sarah and Jake culminates from their respective journeys through heartache and serendipity. Their connection deepens as they navigate life's challenges together, demonstrating the power of love and emotional healing.