What happens if your entire family is known for one profession, but that particular job is the furthest thing from who you are and what you want to do? This existential question is addressed in the new animated film Rock Dog. Bodi, a Tibetan Mastiff, comes from a long line of guard dogs. However, all he really wants to do is sing!
This lighthearted tale is the most recent addition to Hollywood’s extensive list of dog stories. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite animated movies that have moved us to tears or laughter and reminded us of the importance of loyalty.
I know Lady and the Tramp is mostly a love story between two unlikely dogs, but I have strong memories of being terrified of the Aunt Sarah character and her singing Siamese cats. This Disney classic may inspire some fun spaghetti dinners!
Can two animals who are bred to be enemies ever become friends? The Fox and the Hound, an early '80s Disney film, showcases the unlikely friendship of Tod (a fox) and Copper (a hound). This is a touching film that may demonstrate to some of the younger members of your family the beauty of unexpected friendships.
One of the best villains in a family film appears in 101 Dalmations. Cruella De Vil is fantastically fierce as a puppy kidnapper with a penchant for spots. The animated adventure features many dog breeds (which is always thrilling when you can spot your favorite!) via the “Twilight bark." You can also enjoy the live-action version and its sequel.
One of our family favorites, Bolt tells the story of a dog who has lived all of his life on a film set starring as a superhero pup. When he believes the actress who plays his best friend has been kidnapped he attempts to come to her rescue... but quickly realizes he doesn’t have superpowers after all.
In this collaboration between Tim Burton and Disney, Frankenweenie tells the story of a young boy who reanimates his departed dog. While parts of the movie are a touch creepy and even a bit sad, the dark comedy in the film is fantastic for older kids.
Oh Dug. sweet, sweet Dug! One of the most fantastically realized characters in Pixar’s Up is a golden retriever named Dug who, thanks to a device attached to a collar, is able to translate his barks into human speech.
Did you really think this list could exist without Snoopy?! The Peanuts Movie focuses mostly on Charlie Brown and the little red-haired girl, but our favorite flying ace finds a way to chew the scenery when he is on the screen.
Not just a beloved children’s book and TV series, Clifford is also a film star! Clifford’s Really Big Movie is a charming film that shows what happens when our four-legged friends misunderstand a situation. In Clifford’s case, when he mishears a phone call he mistakenly assumes his care costs his family too much money, so he runs away.
A recent addition to our animated dog list, The Secret Life of Pets imagines the world of pets while we are away at the office. There are so many fun characters in this film, but Gidget, a spunky Pomeranian, won our hearts.
One of the coolest things about Shaun the Sheep is that there is no actual spoken dialogue in the film. This critically acclaimed film is goofy and will have you and everyone in your family laughing out loud. Bitzer, the Farmer’s dog, is the definition of loyal and he will make you cheer.
