Welcome pet loving parents!
If you have kids who adore animals, especially mans best friend, than these family friendly dog movies would be perfect for the next family movie night!
We will suggest 35 of the most heartwarming, adventurous, and downright delightful family friendly dog movies that are bound to wag some tails and steal a few hearts along the way.
These films celebrate the incredible bonds between humans and their beloved canines and will resonate with both kids and parents alike.
And of course, since Disney does family movies best, many of these dog movie suggestions are made by Disney!
Let’s get into the “35 Family Friendly Dog Movies for Kids Who Love Animals” and discover the paw-sibilities of a perfect family movie night!
Don’t forget to download the FREE MOVIE CHECKLIST to keep track of what movies you want to watch!
For more information about any particular movie, you can visit:
- IMDb – For movie reviews, where to stream, ratings, trailers and lots more.
- Common Sense Media – For movie ratings, reviews and comprehensive content warnings. This is a go-to source that parents trust.
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Who is this list of family-friendly dog movies for?
- Parents looking for a clean, family-friendly movie selection for movie night
- Kids sleepover party with friends
- Dog party theme movie selection
- Anyone who loves dogs and wants to watch a heartwarming movie with dogs
What information is provided about each dog movie in this selection?
- The movie title and release year of the movie
- The YouTube Trailer
- Studio
- The MPAA rating
- Link to the movie in IMDb – For movie reviews, where to stream, ratings, trailers and lots more.
- A movie summary
35 Dog Movies for the Whole Family
1. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: G | IMDb
In this heartwarming classic, Shadow, Chance, and Sassy are back in action! Join these three loyal pets as they embark on another incredible journey. This time, they’re trying to find their family in the rugged wilderness. It’s a story of perseverance and the enduring bond between animals and their humans, perfect for kids of all ages.
2. Benji (1974)
Studio: Mulberry Square Productions | Rating: G | IMDb
The lovable Benji is back with more adventures, captivating the hearts of kids and families once again. In this film, Benji comes to the rescue of some kidnapped children. It’s a heartwarming tale of bravery, loyalty, and the belief that even the littlest heroes can make a big difference.
3. Bolt (2008)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Follow Bolt, the heroic canine who thinks he has superpowers, on a fun filled journey. Alongside Mittens the cat and Rhino the hamster, they’ll embark on a thrilling adventure. This Disney movie combines comedy, friendship, and excitement to create a memorable family experience.
4. Milo and Otis (1986)
Studio: Fuji Television | Rating: G | IMDb
This delightful film tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a cat named Milo and a pug named Otis. Follow their adventures as they explore the world together. The movie is filled with heartwarming moments and showcases the beauty of friendship across different species.
5. Marley & Me (2008)
Studio: Fox 2000 Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Join the chaotic but endearing journey of the Grogan family as they navigate life with their mischievous Labrador, Marley. From puppyhood through the ups and downs of family life, this film is a rollercoaster of emotions, making it a relatable and touching watch for parents and kids alike.
6. Air Bud: Golden Receiver (1998)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
The sports world meets man’s best friend in this sequel to the original Air Bud. This time, Buddy the Golden Retriever takes his basketball skills to the football field. Kids will love watching Buddy score touchdowns and charming everyone with his athletic prowess and lovable personality.
7. The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
Studio: Illumination Entertainment | Rating: PG | IMDb
Ever wonder what your pets do when you’re not home? This animated gem from Illumination Entertainment gives you a hilarious and heartwarming peek into the secret lives of Max, Duke, and their furry friends. It’s a make you laugh adventure that will tickle the funny bone of both kids and adults.
8. 101 Dalmatians (1961)
Studio: Walt Disney Productions | Rating: G | IMDb
Disney’s classic tale of Pongo and Perdita, two Dalmatians on a mission to rescue their adorable puppies from the clutches of the dastardly Cruella de Vil. This timeless animated film features lovable characters and an unforgettable story, perfect for a family movie night.
9. A Dog’s Purpose (2017)
Studio: Amblin Entertainment | Rating: PG | IMDb
Be prepared to experience a heartwarming journey through the eyes of a dog named Bailey as he’s reincarnated into different breeds over the course of several lifetimes. This movie beautifully explores the unbreakable bond between dogs and their humans, leaving a lasting impression on young and old hearts alike.
10. A Dog’s Journey (2019)
Studio: Amblin Entertainment | Rating: PG | IMDb
This touching sequel to “A Dog’s Purpose” continues the story of Bailey, a loyal dog who goes through multiple lifetimes to protect and love his human, Ethan. It’s a tearjerker that explores themes of love, loyalty, and the enduring connections between dogs and their owners.
11. White Fang (1991)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Based on Jack London’s novel, White Fang tells the story of a young boy and a half wolf, half dog, who forge an unbreakable friendship in the rugged wilderness of the Yukon. This thrilling adventure is a beautiful mix of nature, survival, and the enduring connection between humans and animals.
12. Cats & Dogs (2001)
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Enter the secret world of cats and dogs, where they engage in a high stakes, covert war for control. This comedic adventure movie provides a fresh perspective on the age old rivalry between our feline and canine companions.
13. Red Dog (2011)
Studio: Roadshow Films | Rating: PG | IMDb
Based on a true story, “Red Dog” is about a legendary Australian dog who unites a remote mining community. This heartwarming tale celebrates the impact a faithful dog can have on the lives of people and the unbreakable bonds they create.
14. White Fang (2018)
Studio: Netflix | Rating: PG-13 | IMDb
This modern adaptation of Jack London’s classic novel tells the story of a wild wolf dog named White Fang. The film explores his journey from the wilderness to civilization and the unique bond he forms with a young boy. It’s a beautifully animated and emotionally resonant family film.
15. Isle of Dogs (2018)
Studio: Fox Searchlight Pictures | Rating: PG-13 | IMDb
In this unique stop motion animated film by Wes Anderson, a young boy embarks on a quest to find his lost dog on a dystopian Japanese island where all dogs have been quarantined. This visually stunning and offbeat movie offers a quirky and heartwarming tale of loyalty and friendship.
16. 12 Dogs of Christmas (2005)
Studio: Kragen & Co. | Rating: G | IMDb
Get into the holiday spirit with this heartwarming film about a young girl named Emma who rallies the town to save a group of abandoned dogs. Filled with festive cheer and the importance of community, this movie is a perfect pick for Christmas family movie nights.
17. Good Boy (2003)
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer | Rating: PG | IMDb
What happens when a young boy discovers his new dog, Hubble, is not just any ordinary pup but an alien on a mission from outer space? This entertaining and light hearted movie explores the humorous side of interspecies communication and friendship.
18. Hotel for Dogs (2009)
Studio: DreamWorks Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Siblings Andi and Bruce stumble upon an abandoned hotel and decide to transform it into a haven for stray dogs. This heartwarming comedy showcases their efforts to provide a home for the canine guests, making it a fun and feel-good choice for the whole family.
19. Eight Below (2006)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Prepare for an epic adventure in the icy wilderness of Antarctica. After an unexpected evacuation, a team of researchers leaves their loyal sled dogs behind. The movie follows the incredible journey of these dogs as they fight for survival. It’s a story of courage, determination, and the unbreakable bond between humans and mans best friend.
20. Balto (1995)
Studio: Universal Pictures | Rating: G | IMDb
Inspired by a true story, Balto is a heroic Siberian Husky who embarks on a perilous journey through the Alaskan wilderness to bring life saving medicine to a remote village. This animated film celebrates courage, determination, and the spirit of never giving up, making it a great choice for family movie time.
21. Snow Dogs (2002)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Join the hilarious journey of Miami dentist Ted Brooks, played by Cuba Gooding Jr., who unexpectedly inherits a team of misfit sled dogs in Alaska. This funny adventure is all about embracing the unexpected and forming bonds with the unlikeliest of companions.
22. Because of Winn-Dixie (2005)
Studio: 20th Century Fox | Rating: PG | IMDb
Follow the heartwarming story of a young girl named Opal who befriends a lovable and mischievous dog named Winn-Dixie in a small Southern town. Together, they bring joy and healing to the people in their community. This tale emphasizes the power of friendship and the love that dogs can bring into our lives.
23. All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989)
Studio: United Artists | Rating: G | IMDb
In this animated classic, Charlie, a roguish German Shepherd, returns from doggy heaven with a plan to seek revenge, but he forms an unlikely friendship with a little orphan girl. This movie explores themes of redemption, second chances, and the enduring bonds that can form between people and their pets.
24. Paw Patrol: The Movie (2021)
Studio: Paramount Pictures | Rating: G | IMDb
The Paw Patrol pups are back in action! Join Chase, Marshall, Skye, and the rest of the team as they take on their biggest mission yet to save Adventure City. This fun filled movie is perfect for young kids who are fans of the Paw Patrol TV series.
25. The Call of the Wild (2020)
Studio: 20th Century Studios | Rating: PG | IMDb
Based on Jack London’s classic novel, this film tells the story of Buck, a domesticated dog who is uprooted from his home and embarks on an epic adventure during the Gold Rush in the Yukon. The movie celebrates the strength of spirit and the wildness that lies within us all.
26. The Incredible Journey (1963)
Studio: Walt Disney Productions | Rating: G | IMDb
Join two dogs, Luath and Bodger, and a Siamese cat named Tao, as they embark on a treacherous journey through the Canadian wilderness to reunite with their family. This heartwarming Disney classic emphasizes the indomitable spirit of our furry friends and the unbreakable bond between pets and their humans.
27. Best in Show (2000)
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures | Rating: PG-13 | IMDb
This mockumentary style comedy takes a humorous look at the eccentric world of dog shows. Follow a quirky group of dog owners as they prepare their four-legged companions for the prestigious Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show. It’s a comedy fit for the whole family, showcasing the unique personalities of both the dogs and their owners.
28. A Puppy for Christmas (2016)
Studio: Uptv | Rating: Not Rated | IMDb
In this heartwarming holiday movie, an energetic puppy named Rascal brings love, joy, and a little chaos to a family during Christmas. The film celebrates the magic of the holiday season and the special connection that can develop between a child and their new furry friend.
29. Beethoven (1992)
Studio: Universal Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Meet Beethoven, the mischievous and lovable St. Bernard who brings chaos to the lives of the Newton family. This family comedy is full of hilarious antics and showcases the importance of embracing the quirks of our four legged family members.
30. Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
Join the pampered Chihuahua, Chloe, as she embarks on an adventurous journey in Mexico. Along the way, she discovers her true strengths and befriends a lively group of dogs. This film is a blend of comedy, action, and the importance of friendship, making it a great choice for family movie night.
31. Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Studio: Walt Disney Productions | Rating: G | IMDb
Travel back in time with Disney’s classic love story between Lady, a refined Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, a free spirited mutt. This animated masterpiece takes you on a romantic adventure through the streets of a charming town, reminding us that love knows no boundaries.
32. Dr. Dolittle: Million Dollar Mutts (2009)
Studio: 20th Century Fox | Rating: PG | IMDb
Follow the delightful escapades of Dr. Dolittle as he helps rescue Lucky, a talking dog with a million dollar inheritance. This family friendly comedy is filled with laughter, talking animals, and heartwarming moments that will entertain and inspire.
33. Super Buddies (2013)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: G | IMDb
In this fun installment of the Air Buddies franchise, the super powered pups are on a mission to stop an evil shape shifting alien. Kids will love the adorable puppies and the excitement of watching them save the day.
34. Pick of the Litter (2018)
Studio: Sundance Selects | Rating: Not Rated | IMDb
Follow the incredible journey of a group of puppies as they train to become guide dogs for the visually impaired. This heartwarming and inspiring documentary showcases the dedication, intelligence, and bond between these incredible dogs and their trainers.
35. The Shaggy Dog (2006)
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures | Rating: PG | IMDb
In this hilarious family comedy, Tim Allen plays Dave Douglas, a man who mysteriously transforms into a Shetland Sheepdog. Watch as he navigates the challenges of life as a dog while trying to solve a corporate conspiracy. It’s a blend of humor and adventure that the whole family can enjoy.
Thanks for reading this article for family-friendly dog movie inspiration!
If you’re looking for more family-friendly movies, than checkout our other articles on family movies!
We also have an article on the 100 Best Family Movies for Movie Night you should checkout next!
Here is a comprehensive list of every animated Disney movie made by Walt Disney Animation Studios, with a FREE interactive checklist.
We hope to see you again soon!
Free Movie Checklist
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So, what are your thoughts on the movies included in this list? What additional movies would you have included? What movies would you have left off?
We encourage all comments and discussion!
Everyone is welcome!
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