Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and one of the malignancies with high global incidence and mortality rates. Despite significant progress in HCC prevention and screening, over 50% of patients are diagnosed at advanced or terminal stages, rendering surgical resection or liver transplantation unfeasible. Mouse models play an indispensable role in HCC research due to their short lifespan, small size, high reproductive capacity, and physiological, genetic, and molecular similarities to humans. These models serve as well-established tools for studying disease pathogenesis, identifying therapeutic targets, and screening potential drugs, providing a critical platform for exploring HCC mechanisms and evaluating new therapies. In recent years, advancements in chemically induced, genetically engineered, and transplantation models have diversified the strategies for constructing HCC mouse models, offering researchers more options. This article systematically reviews the progress in HCC mouse models, detailing the principles, advantages, and limitations of various construction strategies, including chemical induction, genetically engineered mice, and implantation models. Additionally, it discusses the current limitations of existing HCC mouse models and prospects for future developments, aiming to provide more precise and reliable tools for HCC research and improve diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.