30 Must-See Dog Movies for Kids and the Whole Family

Are you looking for a fun movie for your next family movie night? If you’re raising a dog lover or just want a feel-good story everyone can enjoy, you’ll love this list of Dog Movies for Kids. This list is full of of heartwarming tales, valuable life lessons, and plenty of tail-wagging fun!

30 of the Best Dog Movies for Kids

We have put together a large list of 30 of the best dog movies that will perfect for the whole family. From Disney classics like Homeward Bound and Old Yeller to modern favorites like The Secret Life of Pets, these stories have lots of dogs, and will teach your kids about loyalty, and unconditional love.

Animated Dog Movies

These great animated dog movies for kids are perfect for younger children and full of fun, adventure, and silliness. They have colorful characters, catchy songs, and messages about loyalty and friendship.

These animated films are a perfect choice for any dog lover in the family.

1.The Secret Life of Pets (2016) G – Ever wonder what your pet dog does when you leave the house? This hilarious animated film explores the secret lives of pets living in New York City. It features a mischievous dog, unlikely friendships with the neighborhood pets and lots of laughter.

2. 101 Dalmatians (1961) G – This vintage Disney classic tells the story of two dalmatian puppies and their mission to rescue their stolen siblings from the evil Cruella de Vil.

3. All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989) G – A classic animated adventure with themes of redemption and the importance of friendship. It tells the story of an old hound dog who gets a second chance at life and love.

4. Oliver and Company (1988) G – Another Disney classic which is a modern twist on Dickens’ Oliver Twist. It follows an orphan kitten and his gang of street-smart dogs. Full of amazing music, friendship, and valuable lessons.

5. Bolt (2008) PG – A TV star dog who believes he has superpowers goes on a real-world road trip to find his owner. This is such a fun movie that blends action, emotion, and themes of love.

6. Balto (1995) G – Based on a true story of a sled dog who braves extreme conditions to deliver medicine to save a town’s children. A powerful tale of courage, loyalty, and a real hero dog.

7. Lady and the Tramp (1955) G – This romantic Disney dog movie tells the tale of a pampered Cocker Spaniel named Lady, and a scrappy street smart stray named Tramp. It shows how two very different dogs from opposite worlds can find love and adventure together.

Live Action Dog Movies

These live-action dog movies for kids (and some adaptations of animated favorites) bring dogs and their humans to life in the real world.

8. Lady and the Tramp Live Action (2019) PG – This live-action adaptation of the Disney classic brings the beloved pups to life with stunning visuals and a fresh take on a timeless love story.

9. 101 Dalmatians (1996) G – A live-action remake of the Disney classic, this version features adorable pups, Cruella de Vil, and a thrilling escape adventure.

10. Eight Below (2006) PG – A gripping survival tale about a team of sled dogs left behind in Antarctica, based on a true story. It’s a powerful example of loyalty, survival, and unconditional love.

11. Togo (2019) PG – Another incredible true story of a sled dog and his musher during a 1925 serum run. Togo’s courage and determination shine through in this emotionally rich and historically rooted movie.

12. Beethoven (1992) PG – A giant St. Bernard brings chaos and joy to his human family in this hilarious and classic family movie night pick. It’s such a fun movie, with plenty of sequels to follow.

13. Benji (1974) G – This small town stray wins over an entire community in this timeless, gentle family movie. Benji is clever, loyal, and will steal your heart with how cute he is.

14. Hotel for Dogs (2009) PG – Your tweens will love this movie about two kids who create a secret shelter for stray dogs in a deserted hotel. It’s a fun, feel-good live-action movie with lots of dogs and creative problem-solving.

Dog Movies Based on Books

These films are inspired by beloved books and bring heartwarming dog movies to life. They are great to watch after you read the books with your children.

15. Because of Winn-Dixie (2005) PG – A lonely young girl adopts a scruffy abandoned dog who helps her make friends in a new town. It’s a great story about connection, forgiveness, and the magic of dogs.

16. Where the Red Fern Grows (1974) G – This very emotional tale of a young boy, his two hunting dogs, and their deep bond is a timeless classic filled with important lessons about love and loss.

17. Old Yeller (1959) G – One of the most famous dog movies of all time, this Disney classic follows the relationship between a young boy and his brave pet dog in post-Civil War Texas. Warning: It is also a tear jerker.

18. The Call of the Wild (1993) PG – Based on Jack London’s classic, this newer movie stars Harrison Ford and a labrador retriever mix named Buck who finds freedom in the wilderness.

19. White Fang (1991) PG – This adaptation follows a young boy and his wolf-dog companion through the wilds of Alaska. It’s a great story of loyalty and survival.

20. Shiloh (1997) PG – A young boy rescues a mistreated dog from a cruel owner in this powerful movie full of valuable lessons about courage and doing what’s right.

Talking Dog Movies for Kids

These dog movies for kids bring a fun twist with dogs who can actually talk. Full of laughs and mischievous dogs, these are great picks for younger children and fans of talking animal adventures.

21. Air Bud (1997) PG – A golden retriever with a talent for basketball becomes a school star. It’s part sports story, part mischievous pup tale, and tons of fun.

22. Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008) PG – A pampered pet dog from a wealthy family gets lost in Mexico and learns the real meaning of loyalty. It’s stylish, silly, and full of adorable dogs.

23. Cats and Dogs (2001) PG – In a secret war between felines and canines, a rookie hound dog must save the day. This movie is full of spy gadgets and jokes.

24. Milo and Otis (1989) G – A kitten and a small dog journey through the wild to reunite. It’s a calm, sweet film with real animals and an emphasis on friendship.

25. Good Boy (2003) PG – A dog from outer space visits Earth to evaluate the status of dogs as masters. The dogs are so funny and this one of my son’s favorite movies growing up. It’s a quirky concept with themes of love, family, and humor.

26. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993) G – Another great movie about two dogs and a cat as they trek across the wilderness to find their human family. This is a Disney classic with unforgettable voiceovers for the animals.

Dog Documentaries

We love documentaries in our homeschool and these dog movies for kids are a great way to explore the bond between dogs and humans, and learn how amazing these animals are.

27. Dogs (2018) TV-PG– This Netflix docuseries explores stories of unconditional love between dogs and their owners across different cultures.

28. Inside the Mind of a Dog (2009) TV-PG – A science-based movie that explores how dogs think, feel, and perceive the world. It’s very interesting and will give your kids insight into the mind of their dogs.

29. Pick of the Litter (2018) G – Follow the journey of adorable puppies that are training to become guide dogs. It’s a great movie to include if you are learning about disabilities and service dogs.

30. Super Power Dogs (2019) G – Meet real-life hero dogs—from disaster rescuers to avalanche searchers, in this exciting IMAX documentary. It’s a great tribute to man’s best friend and their amazing capabilities.

Springboard Learning Ideas

Want to take your dog movie marathon a little further? Here are a few fun ways to keep the learning going:

• Celebrate National Dog Day (August 26): This is the perfect excuse to snuggle your pup (or a stuffed animal if you don’t have one) and talk about how dogs help humans in so many ways.
• Read Together: Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor are wonderful chapter books that pair perfectly with the movies.
• Subscribe to The Canine Corner: This free, monthly newsletter for teachers (and parents too!), is packed with ready-to-use lesson plans, engaging read-alouds, and creative activities across all grade levels, K–12. It’s a simple way to bring learning to life – no lesson design required!
• Watch & Wonder: After a documentary like Super Power Dogs or Pick of the Litter, ask your kids what kind of “job” they think their dog (or favorite dog breed) would be great at.

Whether you’re laughing at the antics of Beethoven, tearing up at Old Yeller, or cheering on Balto, dog movies have a way of pulling at the heartstrings. So pop some popcorn, gather the family, and let one of these loyal pups brighten your next movie night.