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If furry pets capture your child’s attention, then do not miss our list of dog movies for kids. As they say, “A dog is a human’s best friend”—so, we are sure your children would love them. Also, these furry friends are soft, cuddly and the most-loved pet animals. One could gain immense happiness and pleasure by watching their tail-wagging and puppy eyes.
Dog movies would delight your child. No matter what day or occasion, watch these animated and family-friendly dog movies with your children to educate or entertain them or to kill time. So, keep scrolling as we list the best dog movies your child would love.
Key Pointers
- Dog movies capture the essence of a dog’s nature, namely the characteristics of loyalty, joyfulness, and playfulness.
- Most children love dogs for their smartness and cute looks, and dog movies could strengthen this fondness further.
- The best heart-touching dog movies can be watched with your children on the weekend or enjoyed during a movie marathon in the holiday season.
17 Dog Movies For Kids
1. Hachi: A Dog’s Tale
Release year: 2009
Imagine meeting your best buddy at the same spot every day. Hachi, an Akita dog, arrives at the train station every afternoon just before three o’clock to welcome his beloved master. Unfortunately, one day, Professor Parker Wilson (Richard Gere) is not on board. Hachi waits at the station, staring in anticipation of Parker’s return. Hachi waits for ten long years for his owner to return.
This is a true story of Hachiko, an abandoned dog who was adopted by a professor in Tokyo. It’s a classic movie that teaches us to be loyal, faithful, committed, and lovable to our friends. And yes, before you start watching this kid-friendly movie, keep a box of tissues ready.
2. Marley & Me
Release year: 2008
Meet Marley, a Labrador retriever puppy who grows up to be a huge, rambunctious Labrador retriever. Marley is known for mischief, whether it’s slamming doors or drooling on strangers. Some would even claim he’s the worst dog ever. Those who know and love Marley regard him as a one-of-a-kind canine. His heart is pure, and he has a charming larger-than-life demeanor. He is an epitome of joy and happiness.
Dimitri Ng, a blogger, shares why he resonates with this movie and the lessons it taught him. NG writes, “The film resonated with me for a long time, not because of its philosophical takes or phenomenal CGI, but because of how connected I felt with it… Inevitably, when Marley sadly passes, we can feel the visceral sorrow from the Grogan family. We, too, share in it. Losing Marley felt like losing a family member. The sad reality is that nothing can live forever. This fact extends to our loyal furry companions… Watching my two dogs grow, however young they are, in comparison to a 13-year-old Marley, I experienced not just a newfound passion for dogs, but also a greater appreciation for companionship (i).”
3. Eight Below
Release year: 2006
Jerry Shepard, a tour guide, and his pack of eight magnificent sled dogs are the stars of this movie. It is based on a true story about eight sled dogs stranded in Antarctica during the winter and their owner, Jerry (Paul Walker), who tries to find them. For months, the dogs battle to survive the cold Antarctic winter. This film keeps your pulse racing. On the one hand, you’ll be crying, and on the other, you’ll be ecstatic.
Trivia4. A Dog’s Purpose
Release year: 2017
A Dog’s Purpose is an incredible story of one lovable dog’s search for his life’s purpose spanning numerous lifetimes. This movie shows how a dog passes four different lifetimes with various owners spread across contrasting time periods. After a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey is surprised to find himself reborn as a hyperactive golden-haired puppy.
His search for meaning in his new life brings him into the loving arms of eight-year-old Ethan. Bailey joyfully discovers how to be a nice dog over their numerous travels. The story delves into the universal yearning to answer life’s most basic question: “Why are we here?” Towards the end of the movie, this dog returns to Ethan, who has now grown old, to remind him of life’s true purpose.
5. Togo
Release year: 2019
In the middle of winter, a terrible disease afflicts children of a small Alaskan town called Nome – caught between the frozen sea and a snow-swamped wilderness. Togo, which stars Willem Dafoe, charts the story of the sled dog Togo and more than 100 Siberian huskies that heroically save the town’s children by delivering lifesaving serum through the Alaskan wilds. Togo is more than a narrative about a brave dog; it’s a fact-based magical and enchanting story about the unbreakable love between man and dog; and one of the best dog and human relationship-based movies.
6. Beethoven
Release year: 1992
Your children will at once fall in love with the four-footed, big-hearted, wet-nosed hero of this delightful comedy. Just when nefarious dog-nappers pursue him, the lovely puppy named Beethoven is adopted by George Newton’s family. The family quickly falls in love with Beethoven, who grows up to be a massive Saint Bernard.
George Newton, however, has a hard time getting over Beethoven’s destructive behavior. Meanwhile, Dean Jones, a crooked veterinarian, attempts to kill Beethoven for scientific experiments. Will Dean Jones succeed in his sinister plot?
7. 101 Dalmatians
Release year: 1996
Mr. and Mrs. Dearly are overjoyed when their Dalmatian couple Missis and Pongo have their first litter of fifteen puppies. Their joy, however, is short-lived, as the puppies are abducted! Missis and Pongo’s puppies go missing, and the two Dalmatian parents know it’s due to Cruella De Vil’s malicious plot. The brightest canine minds begin their hunt for Cruella de Vil, the most wicked woman who desires a coat made using the skin of 99 dalmatian puppies.
8. My Dog Skip
Release year: 2000
Who says you have to be human to be best friends? Not Willie Morris (Frankie Muniz), who receives a gifted Fox Terrier named Skip for his birthday. Willie and Skip turn bullies into friends, tangle with hapless moonshiners, and even win the love of the prettiest girl in school with Skip’s unexpected help.
My Dog Skip is a heart-warming and amusing story set in a sleepy town on the banks of the Yazoo River on the Mississippi Delta. This film is a real tearjerker that depicts the extraordinary bond that a boy can have with his pet dog.
9. Lady and The Tramp
Release year: 1955
Lady and the Tramp is one of the most loved Disney films. The story is about Lady and a lovely Cocker Spaniel, who flees after her ideal life is turned upside down by the birth of a new baby and some unwanted visitors. Lady meets Tramp at the wrong side of town. Tramp is not like Lady; he is a streetwise mutt. What happens when a pampered pooch meets a street dog? Life on the streets would not be all that bad with buddies like him, would it?
10. A Dog’s Way Home
Release year: 2019
This incredible tale follows the loving dog Bella on her trip home after being separated from Lucas, her adoring human owner. Bella sets out on a seemingly impossible but joyful trek home, braving miles of dangerous Colorado terrain to reunite with her devoted owner. The profound bond that exists between humans and dogs is fully captured in this movie. It’s a heartfelt story that is inspiring to everyone who cares about animals, especially dogs.
11. The Shaggy Dog
Release year: 1959
This captivating film is sure to tickle your kids’ funny bones. After injecting a mutation serum into Dave Douglas, the workaholic lawyer is transformed into a Sheepdog. He now has to track down the culprits while trying to transform back into a human.
Trivia12. The Call Of The Wild
Release year: 2020
Buck is kidnapped from his happy California home during the Klondike Gold Rush and sold as a sled dog in Alaska. Buck must learn to embrace his primitive nature if he is to become the pack’s leader. Will the Yukon’s rough terrain and the dark side of human nature be too much for him to handle? In this emotional adventure, you will discover the love between a man and his dog that exemplifies the human spirit’s goodness.
13. Benji
Release year: 2018
Benji, an orphaned puppy, strikes up a bond with two school students. When bandits kidnap them, Benji and his scruffy sidekick come to their rescue. The endearing Benji fights evil people and wins hearts, leaving fans rooting for him until the curtains fall. If your children love dogs, Benji is one movie that you must watch right away.
14. Isle of Dogs
Release year: 2018
Megasaki, Japan, has been hit by a dog flu outbreak, prompting Mayor Kobayashi to order that all dogs be transported to Trash Island. On the island, a young boy named Atari goes out with the help of five other dogs to find his lost dog, Spots, despite numerous challenges. The friendship between Atari and Spots reminds viewers of the remarkable bond that exists between humans and dogs. The humans’ dialogue is largely in Japanese, whereas the dogs’ dialogue is in English.
15. Bolt
Release year: 2008
Imagine a film that is a cool mixture of comedy, action, drama, and adventure in one package. Wouldn’t that be a perfect work of art? Bolt is a perfect example of this. Bolt’s heroic exploits begin with the rescue of Penny, his co-star and owner. Along the way, he discovers that his superpowers are fictitious and that he is the star of a TV show.
16. Lassie
Release year: 1994
Lassie is a collie with a heart of gold, which has left a lasting paw print on the hearts of the audience. Her tales of loyalty and bravery, portrayed through TV shows and movies, have become timeless classics. So, follow Lassie’s adventures and feel the warmth of her unwavering devotion. From rugged wilderness to everyday challenges, Lassie’s resilience and compassion make her more than just a pet and a symbol of enduring friendship. Through books and on-screen escapades, Lassie continues to inspire generations, embodying the true spirit of companionship.
17. Because of Winn-Dixie
Release year: 2005
Because of Winn-Dixie is a film adaptation of the novel by Kate DiCamillo and is filled with heartwarming moments and life lessons. The story revolves around Opal and her lovable dog, Winn-Dixie. The movie depicts their adventures and the connections they form within the community. Winn-Dixie becomes a source of comfort for Opal and helps her build relationships with diverse characters, each carrying their own stories and struggles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the “Dog” film suitable for children?
The movie “Dog” has been categorized as unsuitable for children under 13 due to its thematic elements and other suggestive content.
2. What is the saddest dog movie?
The saddest dog movie is subjective and varies from person to person. However, some commonly mentioned films that are often heart-wrenching and emotionally impactful include Marley & Me, Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, Old Yeller, and A Dog’s Purpose.
3. How can parents choose dog movies that are age-appropriate and suitable for their children?
To select dog movies that are age-appropriate and suitable for their child, parents can consider the movie’s rating, reviews, or synopses to gain insights into the content and make informed decisions based on their child’s age and preferences.
4. How can dog movies teach children about responsibility and caring for animals?
Dog movies can educate children about responsibility by portraying the essential tasks of feeding, exercising, grooming, and providing affection to dogs. Through these depictions, children learn the significance of commitment, consistency, and the gratification of being responsible pet owners.
5. How can parents use dog movies to encourage outdoor activities and adventures with their children and dogs?
Parents can utilize dog movies as inspiration to encourage outdoor activities and adventures with their child and their dog. These films highlight the joy and thrill of exploring nature, going on walks, and engaging in various outdoor activities alongside their beloved pet. So, parents can encourage their children to engage in similar activities with their pets to strengthen the bond and for a fun screen-free time.
6. What are some classic dog movies that families should watch together?
Some classic dog movies perfect for family movie nights are A Dog’s Purpose, A Dog’s Way Home, Lassie, Benji, and 101 Dalmatians.
7. Who are some iconic dog characters from dog movies for kids?
Lassie from the 1994 film of the same name, Hachi from the eponymous 2009 film, Buck from The Call of the Wind, and Marley from Marley and Me are some iconic dog characters that children love.
Dogs are sweet, innocent, adorable creatures and humans’ best friends, so dog movies appeal to almost everyone. These educational and enjoyable children’s films are excellent family movie night ideas as they can help teach your kids the value of friendship, loyalty, and dedication. All dog movies for kids listed above will take you and your child on a roller coaster ride of emotions. These four-legged companions in the animal movies can make you laugh, jump out of your seat, and even cry. Some of these films are timeless classics, which are perfect to watch with the whole family.
Infographic: Heartwarming Dog Movies
Whether your child is an animal lover or has found their best friend in their pet dogs, they will enjoy watching a heart-touching movie on dogs. Play these movies from our infographic on a fun family night to learn how incredible and precious their animal friend is. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Heartwarming Dog Movies For Kids To Watch
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Does your child love dogs? Then, dog movies could be great entertainment for them! Check out this video for a list of 5 great dog movies for kids! These films will bring lots of fun and laughter to your family.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Marley & Me (2008) Man’s best friend;https://dzjn.medium.com/marley-me-2008-fdc6bb668820
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