There’s something undeniably magical about curling up with your family, a big bowl of popcorn, and watching a movie that celebrates our furry best friends. Disney has a long history of bringing heartwarming and heroic dogs to the screen, creating some of the most beloved and unforgettable dog characters.
Whether you’re looking for animated classics, live-action adventures, or modern tales, there’s a Disney dog movie perfect for your next family movie night.
To help you pick your next pup-filled flick, we’ve rounded up the 25 best Disney dog movies that will have your whole household howling with joy!
Classic Disney Dog Films: Timeless Tails
Disney’s earliest dog movies remain some of the most treasured classics. These films aren’t just about dogs — they’re stories filled with heart, adventure, and lessons about love and loyalty that never get old.
1. Lady and the Tramp (1955)
A spaghetti dinner never seemed so romantic! Lady and the Tramp is one of Disney’s most iconic dog movies, telling the story of Lady, an elegant Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, a streetwise stray. This movie brings to life the excitement and warmth of love and adventure from a dog’s-eye view. I still remember watching it as a kid, swooning over their famous dinner date and immediately begging my parents for a dog! If you prefer a live-action version, Disney+ released one in 2019 featuring two adorable canine stars.
Perfect for: Families who love romance, adventure, and of course, a little spaghetti on the side.
2. 101 Dalmatians (1961)
Few Disney villains are as chilling as Cruella de Vil, but her schemes are no match for the clever Dalmatians. Pongo and Perdita’s quest to save their 99 puppies is packed with excitement, daring rescues, and plenty of spots! Even today, my family loves to shout, “Cruella!” every time she appears on screen.
Perfect for: Families who love action, excitement, and, of course, lots of adorable puppies.
3. Old Yeller (1957)
I have to give a warning here: you may want to have tissues on hand for Old Yeller. This is the kind of movie that makes you laugh, cry, and hug your dog a little tighter. It’s a heart-wrenching tale of a boy and his dog, showing the deep bond between humans and their pets. It’s perfect for older children and adults who want a film that pulls at the heartstrings.
Perfect for: Families who are ready for a moving, emotional story.
4. The Shaggy Dog (1959)
This is one of Disney’s earliest forays into mixing humans and dogs in a way that will have the whole family giggling. In The Shaggy Dog, a teenage boy turns into a sheepdog, and hilarity follows. It’s a lighthearted comedy with a goofy premise that’s fun for all ages.
Perfect for: Families who love slapstick humor and don’t take things too seriously.
5. The Fox and the Hound (1981)
A true classic about friendship, The Fox and the Hound is the heartwarming tale of Copper, a hound dog, and Tod, a fox, who are unlikely friends. This movie teaches powerful lessons about loyalty, friendship, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Even though it’s emotional, it’s one of those movies that sparks meaningful conversations with kids about change and acceptance.
Perfect for: Families who want a deep, thoughtful movie about friendship and growing up.
6. Oliver & Company (1988)
If you love dogs and toe-tapping tunes, Oliver & Company is a must-watch. This jazzy animated film is Disney’s take on Oliver Twist, featuring a clever street dog named Dodger. Set in New York City, it’s a colorful, fun adventure with a great soundtrack.
Perfect for: Families who enjoy musicals and streetwise dogs.
Action-Packed Disney Dog Movies: Films Full of Adventure
When it comes to heart-pounding, action-packed adventures, Disney dog movies are hard to beat. Whether it’s a group of courageous canines facing extreme odds or a single heroic pup on a mission to save the day, these films deliver excitement and energy that will have the whole family on the edge of their seats.
7. Bolt (2008)
Imagine being a superdog! In Bolt, a TV star pup thinks he has superpowers, but when he’s accidentally shipped across the country, he discovers that his real strength comes from the love he shares with his human. Bolt is fast-paced, funny, and full of heartwarming moments. My kids absolutely loved watching Bolt’s journey, especially the high-energy chase scenes.
Perfect for: Families who love animation and action-packed escapades.
8. Togo (2019)
Based on a true story, Togo is an edge-of-your-seat adventure about a sled dog who defies the odds to save his town. This movie will inspire and amaze, showing just how incredible and heroic dogs can be. You’ll be cheering for brave Togo the whole way!
Perfect for: Families who love real-life adventures and heroic tales.
9. Eight Below (2006)
Eight Below is an adventure drama based on a true story about the incredible bond between humans and dogs in the harshest conditions. The film follows a group of eight sled dogs and their handler, Jerry Shepard, in Antarctica. After a severe snowstorm forces a scientific expedition team to leave the icy continent, the dogs are left behind due to the harsh weather. What follows is a gripping tale of survival as the dogs must fend for themselves for months in the freezing wilderness while Jerry, driven by loyalty and love for his dogs, does everything in his power to return and rescue them.
Perfect for: Families who enjoy emotional, heart-pounding survival stories.
10. The Call of the Wild (2020)
Originally developed by 20th Century Fox, The Call of the Wild is a thrilling and heartfelt adaptation of Jack London’s classic novel. It follows the journey of Buck, a large and gentle dog whose life changes when he is uprooted from his comfortable home in California and sold into the rugged life of a sled dog in Alaska. Set during the Gold Rush, Buck must learn to survive in the harsh wilderness. Along the way, he forms a deep bond with John Thornton (played by Harrison Ford), a man also seeking solace in the great outdoors.
Perfect for: Families who love epic adventure stories with beautiful landscapes.
11. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
This movie is an all-time favorite! Homeward Bound tells the epic adventure of two dogs, Shadow and Chance, and a cat named Sassy, as they trek across the wilderness to find their owners. It’s a story of friendship, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond between pets and their people.
Perfect for: Families who love epic journeys and animal companions.
Disney Dog Sidekicks: Lovable Companions Who Steal the Show
Some of the best Disney dogs aren’t the main characters, but they certainly leave a lasting impression. These loyal sidekicks and companions add fun, humor, and heart to every scene they’re in.
12. Dug from Up (2009)
“Hi, I’m Dug! I just met you, and I love you!” Dug is the lovable, talking Golden Retriever from Up, and he quickly became a fan favorite. His boundless enthusiasm, loyalty, and love for his new friends make him the ultimate dog companion.
Perfect for: Families who love dogs with big personalities and endless affection.
13. Max from The Little Mermaid (1989)
Max, Prince Eric’s loyal Old English Sheepdog, may not have many lines (he’s a dog, after all), but his presence adds charm and comic relief to The Little Mermaid. Max’s big, fluffy face and playful nature make him one of the most beloved Disney dogs.
Perfect for: Families who enjoy fairy tales with a side of canine cuteness.
14. Dante from Coco (2017)
Dante is the loyal and goofy Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dog) companion to Miguel in Coco. As Miguel embarks on his journey through the Land of the Dead, Dante faithfully follows, often providing comic relief with his clumsy antics. Dante’s playful yet devoted nature makes him a standout sidekick, bringing both humor and heart to the movie.
Perfect for: Families who love a mix of comedy, adventure, and heartwarming loyalty
15. Slinky Dog from Toy Story (1995)
Slinky Dog, or “Slinky,” is the loyal, stretchy Dachshund with a slinky for a body in the Toy Story series. As one of Woody’s closest friends, Slinky is always there to help his fellow toys, using his unique springy form to get the gang out of tight spots. His unwavering loyalty, optimism, and southern charm make him a memorable and beloved sidekick. Whether it’s stretching across impossible distances or offering sage advice, Slinky’s resourcefulness and good nature make him a key member of Andy’s toy crew.
Perfect for: Families who love imaginative, heartwarming stories about friendship, loyalty, and adventure.
Underrated Disney Dog Movies: Hidden Gems Worth a Watch
While some Disney dog movies get all the fame, others fly under the radar. These lesser-known Disney dog films are just as charming as the big blockbusters. They’re perfect for when you want to watch something a little bit different.
16. The Ugly Dachshund (1966)
This lighthearted comedy follows a Great Dane who grows up thinking he’s a Dachshund. The result is plenty of humorous misunderstandings and adorable dog antics. This is a fun, feel-good film that’s great for all ages, especially if you have a soft spot for dogs with big personalities.
Perfect for: Families who want classic Disney humor and a lot of laughs.
17. Snow Dogs (2002)
In Snow Dogs, a Miami dentist unexpectedly inherits a team of sled dogs and must adapt to life in Alaska. It’s a fish-out-of-water comedy that combines silly humor with a bit of heartwarming adventure. My toddler loved watching the sled dogs in action, and it even made him curious about real sledding races!
Perfect for: Families who enjoy snowy settings and a good laugh.
18. Far from Home: The Adventures of Yellow Dog (1995)
In this emotional survival story, a boy and his dog get stranded in the wilderness and must rely on each other to survive. It’s a gripping adventure with a lot of heart. If your family loves stories of resilience and loyalty, this one is a hidden gem.
Perfect for: Families who enjoy thrilling, heartfelt adventures.
19. Isle of Dogs (2018)
Isle of Dogs is a visually stunning stop-motion animated film directed by Wes Anderson. It is set in a dystopian future Japan, where an outbreak of canine flu forces all dogs to be exiled to Trash Island. The story follows a young boy named Atari, who embarks on a daring journey to the island in search of his beloved dog, Spots. Along the way, he teams up with a group of scrappy, abandoned dogs led by Chief, a reluctant stray. Together, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens both dogs and humans.
Perfect for: Families and older children who appreciate imaginative storytelling and artistic animation.
A Paws-itively Perfect Movie Night
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic animated adventure, a modern live-action tale, or a quirky comedy, Disney has a dog movie to make your family movie night unforgettable.
These films not only entertain but also teach important lessons about love, loyalty, and friendship. So, gather the kids, snuggle up with your own pups, and enjoy one (or more!) of these magical Disney dog movies.
And don’t forget the popcorn —your furry friends might want some too!
All images featured in this article were downloaded from Disney+ media kits and are copyrighted by Disney.
