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This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow surrounding lush pines as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

Whether these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.