41 Best Dog Movies for Kids and Pet TV Series for the Whole Family

Dogs hold a special place in our lives. They offer loyalty, bravery, and laughter, making them perfect heroes for movies and TV. Whether you need a simple, happy show for a toddler or a compelling drama for an older teen, you have excellent choices.

This guide features 41 of the best kid-friendly dog movies and TV series with imdb ratings and movie trailers, compiled using extensive fan discussions from Reddit to give you the most comprehensive list online.

Use this guide to find the perfect dog-themed entertainment for your children & family. Enjoy!

1. Dog Movies and TV series: Netflix, Disney+, Prime & Hulu Guides

Finding a great movie should be easy, but it's not. Especially when it comes down to the streaming platforms like Netflix, where you don't have the public rating in detail like imdb platform provides. We have went ahead and curated a list of the best dog-centric movies and series, organized by the most popular streaming services. See a dog movie your kids might enjoy? Watch the trailer, check the imdb rating and see on which streaming service it is available.

1.1. The Best Dog Movies for Kids on Netflix

Netflix continually invests in great animal originals, ensuring good quality and easy access.

Dog Man (2025) IMDb: 6.3

An injury forces a life-saving surgery that fuses police officer Knight and his canine partner, Greg. The resulting hero is Dog Man, who is part-man, part-dog, and fully committed to fighting his arch-nemesis, the villainous cat Petey.

Dog Days Out (2025) IMDb: 6.1

A charming animated series for young children. It follows the daily antics of a cute and curious pup named Holm and his dog friends when their humans are away.

 

Inside the Mind of a Dog (2024) IMDb: 7.2

This feature is for the scientifically curious. It explores the inner workings of a dog's mind, looking at their senses, intelligence, and deep history with humans.

 

Dog Gone (2023) IMDb: 6.1

Based on a true story. A troubled father and son put aside their differences to search the Appalachian Trail for their beloved lost dog, Gonker. This is pure, high-stakes loyalty drama.

Rescued by Ruby (2022) IMDb: 7.2

This heartwarming film is also based on a true story. A state trooper hoping to join the K-9 unit teams up with an unadoptable shelter dog, Ruby. It is a feel-good film about second chances for both humans and dogs.

 

Phantom Pups (2022) IMDb: 5.9

A fun, spooky comedy series. A young boy moves into a haunted house and discovers three adorable, mischievous ghost pups. He must help them become real dogs again.

 

Super PupZ (2022) IMDb: 5.6

A live-action family series. Four super-powered pups work together to help their human friends and a furry alien navigate a cosmic adventure. It is fun, light action for kids.

Heart Parade (2022) IMDb: 5.1

A lighthearted Polish romantic comedy. A woman and her dog move to Krakow, where she meets a handsome, grumpy widower, his son, and their own beloved dog. It is a sweet, adult romance.

 

June & Kopi (2021) IMDb: 6.4

An emotional Indonesian family film. A stray dog named June is rescued by a graphic designer. June forms a protective bond with the family's young daughter, navigating issues of trauma and devotion.

 

The Healing Power of Dude (2020) IMDb: 6.6

A lovely, feel-good family series. An eleven-year-old boy with social anxiety gets an emotional support dog named Dude. The series follows their adventures as Dude helps him face middle school life.

 

Benji (2018) IMDb: 6.4

The charming reboot of the original classic. This movie follows the famous stray dog as he races to save two kidnapped children who showed him kindness.

Chip and Potato (2018) IMDb: 6.0

This popular animated series follows Chip, an adorable young pug, as she navigates kindergarten and new challenges with the help of her secret best friend, Potato the mouse.

1.2. The Disney+ Dog Vault

Disney+ is the home of legendary animated classics, famous movie dogs, and highly sought-after shows.

 

Bluey (2018 A Disney+ Exclusive) IMDb: 9.3

This Australian import is the current king of pre-school TV. The show is celebrated for modeling great parenting, imaginative play, and family love. It is the perfect wholesome watch.

Pick of the Litter (2018) IMDb: 7.6

This is an insightful docuseries. It follows a litter of puppies through two years of rigorous training as they strive to become guide dogs for the blind. It is a heartwarming look at service and loyalty.

How Dogs Got Their Shapes (2016) IMDb: 6.6

A short, informative documentary. This National Geographic feature explores the genetic science behind how selective breeding created the various shapes and sizes of modern dog breeds. Sadly we weren't able to find a trailer for this documentary.

 

Up (2009) - with hilarious Labrador Retriever Doug IMDb: 8.3

78-year-old Carl Fredricksen travels to South America in his house equipped with balloons, inadvertently taking a young stowaway. While not strictly a dog movie, the charming Golden Retriever Doug and his talking collar are central to this Pixar adventure. It explores friendship and aging with great heart.

 

Bolt (2008) IMDb: 6.8

An action-packed animated comedy. A dog trained to believe he has superpowers gets lost in the real world and discovers what genuine bravery means.

 

Because of Winn-Dixie (2005) IMDb: 6.4

This highly-regarded adaptation tells the story of a lonely young girl named Opal who adopts a scruffy, funny-looking stray dog named Winn-Dixie. The dog helps her heal her relationship with her father and brings a whole community together.

 

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993) IMDb: 7.0

The gold standard of pet adventure movies. Two dogs and a sassy cat cross the wilderness to find their owners. Shadow's return is still one of cinema's greatest moments of loyalty.

101 Dalmatians (Animated 1961) IMDb: 7.3

A classic tale of Pongo and Perdita. The animated original features the famously evil Cruella De Vil and 101 adorable, heroic Dalmatian puppies within a loving family. But there will be danger glooming around every corner. Adventure, comedy animation that I remember from my own childhood with only the best memories.

Lady and the Tramp (Animated 1955, and Live Action 2019) IMDb: 7.3

This romantic, timeless classic tells the story of an unlikely love between a pampered Cocker Spaniel and a street-smart mutt. That spaghetti scene remains iconic.

Oliver and Company (1988) IMDb: 6.6

This animated classic is a modern-day take on Oliver Twist. It features Dodger, a streetwise Jack Russell Terrier mix, who takes a lost kitten under his paw in New York City.

The Ugly Dachshund (1966) - Great Dane Brutus IMDb: 6.5

This classic live-action comedy follows a dachshund mother who accidentally raises a Great Dane puppy named Brutus. His identity crisis and giant size lead to hilarious domestic chaos. Go back in time with this wonderful 60s movie. Enjoy the fashion, hairstyles & cute dogs.

1.3. Top Picks on Prime Video and Hulu

These services host a variety of licensed hits, emotional dramas, and niche series.

Dog (2022) IMDb: 6.5

A modern road-trip dramedy starring Channing Tatum. A former Army Ranger must transport Lulu, a highly aggressive but loyal military working dog, down the Pacific Coast to attend the funeral of her handler. It deals with healing trauma.

 

Dolittle (2020) IMDb: 5.6

Robert Downey Jr. stars as the eccentric doctor who can talk to animals, including his closest companion, a loyal sheepdog named Jip. This movie is a whimsical adventure for the family.

 

A Dog's Journey (2019) IMDb: 7.4

The sequel to A Dog's Purpose. The dog's soul is reborn again with a new, important destiny: to protect the original owner's granddaughter throughout her life.

 

A Dog's Purpose (2017) IMDb: 7.3

This heartwarming film explores the idea of a single dog soul living multiple lives. With each new incarnation, the dog searches for the meaning of its own existence through the lives of the humans it encounters.

 

The Secret Life of Pets (2016) IMDb: 6.5

The animated hit series. These films answer the question: What do our pets really do when we leave the house? Max the Terrier and his friends have wild adventures across New York City. (IMDb rating also applies to Pets 2).

 

Marley & Me (2008) IMDb: 7.0

A film that follows a family's twenty years with their chaotic, lovable, and ultimately unforgettable Labrador, Marley. It is a must-see movie about the reality of pet ownership and the depth of the dog-human bond.

 

Eight Below (2006) IMDb: 7.3

A powerful survival drama based on a true story. A team of sled dogs is abandoned in the brutal Antarctic winter and must rely on their instincts to survive. It showcases incredible canine resilience.

Best in Show (2000) IMDb: 7.5

This hilarious mockumentary takes a deep dive into the quirky, competitive world of show dog enthusiasts and their eccentric pets. It is a smart comedy aimed at an adult audience.

 

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! (1969-1978) IMDb: 7.9

The classic mystery cartoon. Shaggy and his cowardly Great Dane, Scooby-Doo, solve spooky mysteries. This show is a piece of lighthearted TV history.

2. Dog Movies The Whole Family Loves

These essential titles belong on any "Best Of" list. They combine adventure, comedy, and strong family values.

2.1. Beloved Animated and Live-Action Adventures

Choosing these titles guarantees a fun, action-filled family movie night.

Beethoven (1992) IMDb: 5.7

A giant, lovable Saint Bernard brings chaos and joy to a suburban family. This movie is pure, silly comedy that highlights a dog's place in a family.

Air Bud (1997) IMDb: 5.4

The original movie about a golden retriever who plays basketball. This is a goofy, feel-good sports movie that celebrates a dog's unique talent and the bond with a boy.

All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989) IMDb: 6.8

A classic animated musical. A roguish German Shepherd named Charlie B. Barkin must return to Earth from the afterlife to complete a mission. It explores themes of friendship and redemption.

3. Top Animal TV Series for Young Children

These shows are perfect for keeping toddlers entertained while fostering good values.

3.1. Pre-School Favorites

Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie (2023) IMDb: 5.9

A magical meteor falls in Adventure City and gives the PAW Patrol superpowers, transforming them into the Mighty Pups. Pups have to face their most powerful challenge involving a mad scientist who wants to steal their powers.

 

Spirit Rangers (TV series 2022-2024) IMDb: 6.9

While focused on Native American siblings who transform into animal spirits, one of the main animal forms is a loyal dog spirit, making it a great choice for young animal lovers.

 

Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021) IMDb: 5.9

Based on the beloved books, the series is a gentle introduction to themes of community, honesty, and responsibility. The massive, lovable Clifford shows children how kindness and friendship matter most.

Go, Dog. Go! (TV Series 2021 - ongoing) IMDb: 7.0

A colorful, fast-paced show based on the classic children's book. It is perfect for teaching basic concepts like colors, size, and movement through the adventures of the town's many dogs.

 

Pup Academy (2019) IMDb: 6.5

A great family series. Dogs from around the world go through magical portals to attend a secret academy where they train to become man's best friend. This is a whimsical, adventure-filled school setting.

Puppy Dog Pals (TV series 2017-2023) IMDb: 6.7

This animated series follows two pug brothers, Bingo and Rolly, on their fun, secret missions around their neighborhood and the world. It is a lighthearted celebration of brotherhood.

4. Deep Loyalty and High-Stakes Action for Older Viewers

Sometimes you want a deeper story. These movies and series tackle emotional loss, intense action, and complex life situations, making them better for older teens and adults.

4.1. Movies That Explore Loyalty and Loss

The Call of the Wild (2020) IMDb: 6.7

A grand adventure drama. Set during the Klondike Gold Rush, the movie follows Buck, a spirited dog kidnapped from his comfortable life and thrust into the rugged world of a sled dog team.

 

Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009) IMDb: 8.1

This movie tells the true story of an Akita who waited for his owner at a train station every day for years after the man's death. It is the ultimate story of devotion.

A Dog of Flanders (1960) IMDb: 7.2

This story, adapted many times, follows the emotional story of a boy, his grandfather, and his dog Patrasche. It deals with poverty and an unwavering bond against life's harshness. View with care. The emotional depth is significant.

 

Old Yeller (1957) IMDb: 7.2

A dramatic and important classic. It explores the brave relationship between a boy and a stray dog in post-Civil War Texas. It touches on themes of maturity and sacrifice.

4.2. Nostalgic Canine Crime Fighters and Niche Dramas

You watched what was on TV. Many people grew up with minimal rules on screen time. Parental guidance was often less strict. You might remember watching dog-centered content with themes that would earn a higher rating today. This section is for you.

Animal Control (2023 - ongoing) IMDb: 6.8

This is a modern, adult-oriented comedy series. It follows the cynical lives of local animal control officers who often find animals easier to deal with than people. Rated TV-14.

 

All Creatures Great & Small (TV Series 2020 - ongoing) IMDb: 8.6

This beloved series, based on James Herriot's books, follows a young veterinarian in the magnificent Yorkshire Dales. It is a genuinely wholesome, cozy drama focused on animal care and the humorous people who own them. A true comfort watch.

Hudson & Rex (TV Series 2019 - ongoing) IMDb: 7.4

The modern Canadian spin-off. Detective Charlie Hudson and his German Shepherd partner, Rex, work together using Rex's elite K-9 skills to solve the toughest major crimes cases.

 

Snuf De Hond (TV Series 2008) IMDb: 7.1

A popular Dutch series. It follows a young boy and his German Shepherd, Snuf, as they solve mysteries, often in a historical or rural adventure setting.

 

Inspector Rex (Kommissar Rex: TV Series 1994-2004) IMDb: 7.2

This is the classic Austrian and later Italian police procedural. Rex is a brilliant German Shepherd who helps the homicide unit solve murders and high-stakes crimes in Vienna.

Family Dog (TV Series 1993) IMDb: 6.8

This is a quirky, cynical animated sitcom from the 90s, famous for being produced by Steven Spielberg and Tim Burton. It tells the story of an average family's life from the dog's put-upon point of view.