The film is based on the novel Hell Hound (1977) by Ken Greenhall (under the pseudonym Jessica Hamilton).

The title character is a murderous white Bull Terrier who tells the story of his search for a proper master in voice-over narration.

The old woman's condition deteriorates, and ultimately Baxter kills her in order to be adopted by the young couple.

Baxter enjoys his life with the young couple, splitting his time between the sensual woman and the earthy man.

In a monologue echoing Baxter's, the boy plans to kill his parents and be adopted by the couple.

"[3] TV Guide gave the film three out of five stars, calling it "an extremely bleak, nihilistic and occasionally horrifyingly graphic depiction of all that can possibly go sour between a pet dog and his various human masters."

Bill Gibron from DVD Talk rated the film two out of five stars, stating that he "found nothing entertaining or enlightening about this meandering mean spirited mess".