Top 5 Best Anime Movies to Watch with Your Dogs
Kashish Pandey | Aug 24, 2025, 13:08 IST
( Image credit : Times Pets )
Watching anime is already a cozy and entertaining experience, but when you add your furry friend to the mix, it becomes even more heartwarming. Dogs are loyal companions who love spending time with their humans, and many pet parents enjoy including them in simple pleasures like movie nights. If you are both an anime lover and a dog owner, you might be wondering which anime movies are perfect to watch with your canine friend. Some films have themes of friendship, loyalty, and adventure that resonate with dogs, while others feature animals or soothing storylines that make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your pet.
In this blog, we will explore the top five best anime movies to watch with your dogs. These selections are chosen based on their calming visuals, pet-friendly themes, and heartwarming messages about companionship and love.
Hayao Miyazaki’s My Neighbor Totoro is often described as one of the most heartwarming and magical anime films ever created. At its core, it is a simple story about two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move with their father to the countryside while their mother is recovering from an illness. What makes the film so special is the way it transforms everyday life into something whimsical and full of wonder. The countryside setting, the quiet moments of discovery, and of course the lovable forest spirit Totoro, all combine to create a film that feels timeless and comforting.
When you sit down to watch this movie with your dog, you will notice how well it suits a calm evening together. Dogs are naturally drawn to warmth, playfulness, and gentle energy, all of which Totoro embodies. The magical forest scenes filled with soft rain, rustling trees, and dreamy music create a soothing environment, perfect for dogs who prefer calm surroundings. Even the large and cuddly Totoro himself might remind your pup of a favorite stuffed toy, sparking curiosity without causing stress.
Why your dog will love it too:
Calming and melodic soundtrack that avoids sharp or loud noises
Peaceful countryside visuals that create a safe, cozy mood
Themes of family, friendship, and nature that mirror the love between pets and their humans
Wolf Children, directed by Mamoru Hosoda, is an emotional film that explores the life of a young mother raising two half-human, half-wolf children after the death of their father. While the story is deeply touching for human viewers, it also has elements that dogs can connect with, especially the wolf transformations and natural landscapes.
Dogs may not fully understand the emotional journey, but they will certainly be intrigued by the animal sounds and wolf imagery. The film portrays themes of unconditional love, sacrifice, and the bond between parent and child, which can mirror the loyal and protective instincts of dogs.
Wolf Children also features wide shots of forests, rivers, and rural landscapes, which can keep your dog visually engaged. Watching this film together can remind you of the strength and resilience found in both human and animal bonds.
Why it works well with dogs:
The Cat Returns, a whimsical Studio Ghibli creation directed by Hiroyuki Morita, is often seen as a delightful treat for cat lovers. However, this charming film can also be enjoyed alongside your dog, making it a surprisingly fun choice for a pet-friendly movie night. The story follows Haru, a kind-hearted girl who saves a cat from being hit by a car, only to discover that the cat she rescued is no ordinary feline. She soon finds herself whisked away into a magical kingdom of cats, where animals talk, walk upright, and even plan to marry her off to the feline prince.
Although the plot centers on cats, dogs are likely to find the film curious and entertaining in their own way. Many dogs perk up when they hear meows, chirps, or other animal sounds, and The Cat Returns is full of such playful noises. The lighthearted banter between characters, the bustling world of animated cats, and the gentle music combine to create an atmosphere that your pup may find both intriguing and soothing.
What makes this movie especially suited for watching with dogs is its cheerful and relaxed tone. Unlike darker or action-heavy anime, The Cat Returns is short, upbeat, and easy to follow. Dogs generally have shorter attention spans, so the film’s relatively brief runtime is ideal. Even if your dog decides to curl up and nap halfway through, you will still be immersed in a colorful and imaginative world that keeps you smiling.
For pet parents, the story is not only entertaining but also heart warming. It celebrates themes of kindness, bravery, and learning to trust yourself, all wrapped in a fantastical setting. Just as Haru finds courage and strength in her adventures, spending time with your dog during such moments reminds you of the joy and comfort pets bring into your life.
Watching The Cat Returns with your furry friend creates a light, playful movie night that balances humor, charm, and gentle adventure. It may not be directly about dogs, but the spirit of fun and companionship it carries makes it a great addition to your anime-and-pets watchlist.
Why your dog will love it too:
Mamoru Hosoda’s Summer Wars is a film that beautifully balances high-energy adventure with heartfelt family storytelling. At its core, it is about much more than saving the world from a digital threat it is a story of love, loyalty, and the strength of family bonds. While the idea of battling a rogue artificial intelligence in a virtual world may sound far from the calm movie nights you share with your dog, this film offers both excitement and warmth, making it surprisingly pet friendly.
The story follows Kenji, a shy high school student with a gift for mathematics, who finds himself drawn into the vast digital realm of OZ, a virtual space where people from all over the world connect. When a dangerous AI begins to wreak havoc, Kenji must team up with his crush Natsuki’s extended family to restore balance both online and in the real world. While the rapid, brightly animated digital battles may catch your dog’s attention with their bursts of color and sound, the film’s true magic lies in the quieter, emotional moments.
Scenes of the family gathered around large tables, sharing meals, laughing, and supporting one another, create a sense of warmth that resonates beyond the screen. Dogs, being deeply intuitive animals, often sense the emotions of the people around them. As you watch these moments of togetherness, your pup may feel the calm, happy energy too. Just as dogs thrive in their pack, Summer Wars celebrates the strength and joy that comes from family unity and collective care.
For your dog, the movie offers a nice balance. The energetic sequences provide brief sparks of stimulation, while the slower, heartfelt parts create an atmosphere where they can comfortably curl up and rest. For you, it’s a reminder that no matter how complex or digital the world becomes, the simple bonds of love and family are what truly matter something your dog already knows instinctively.
Watching Summer Wars with your dog is both entertaining and comforting. It’s an adventure for you and a calm, emotionally rich environment for your pup, making it a wonderful choice for a cozy night in.
Why your dog will love it too:
Bright and colorful visuals that may catch their attention
A steady rhythm of action and calm, keeping the mood balanced
Themes of family unity that mirror a dog’s natural love for their pack
Hiroyuki Okiura’s A Letter to Momo is less of a film and more of a quiet emotional journey. At its core, it tells the story of Momo, a young girl who moves with her mother to a remote island after the sudden loss of her father. Among her belongings, she discovers an unfinished letter from him it begins with the words “Dear Momo” but says nothing more. That incomplete message lingers in her heart, and as she adjusts to island life, she encounters three quirky, supernatural spirits. They may be mischievous and clumsy, but through their presence, Momo slowly begins to process her grief and move toward acceptance.
The soundtrack is equally gentle melodic and understated, with hints of whimsical supernatural tones that add charm without overwhelming. For sensitive dogs, this makes the movie especially comfortable, free of jarring or startling noises. Watching A Letter to Momo at the end of a long day feels like exhaling a quiet time to heal, reflect, and simply be, with your dog soaking up the same atmosphere of calm.
At its heart, the film is about love, memory, and learning to move forward. These are human struggles, but they’re also lessons that dogs seem to embody naturally living fully in the present, while offering unconditional comfort and loyalty. Sharing this story with your pup makes it more than just a film it becomes a reminder of the quiet, healing strength that love and companionship bring.
Why your dog will love it too:
Sharing an anime movie with your dog can be a surprisingly sweet way to bond, but the key is to make sure the experience is as comfortable for them as it is for you. Here are a few simple tips to create the perfect movie night:
Pick anime that’s calm and colorful instead of overly loud or violent. Bright visuals and gentle storytelling are easier on your dog’s senses.
What matters most is the atmosphere of togetherness. Whether your dog is wide awake watching colors dance on the screen or snoozing peacefully at your side, it’s the shared comfort and connection that turn an ordinary movie night into a memorable one.
Anime movies are not only entertaining for humans but can also be shared with your four-legged companions. The five films listed here are excellent choices for cozy nights with your dog, offering a balance of soothing music, engaging visuals, and heartwarming themes.
My Neighbor Totoro provides a whimsical escape into the wonders of nature. Wolf Children offers a touching exploration of family and identity with strong animal connections. The Cat Returns is a playful and lighthearted adventure that entertains with its quirky charm. Summer Wars delivers excitement while celebrating family unity, and A Letter to Momo gently explores themes of loss and healing.
Sharing these films with your dog can strengthen your bond and make movie nights more meaningful. While your pup may not understand the storylines, they will appreciate the calm environment and your presence. After all, dogs value time with their humans above anything else.
So the next time you plan an anime marathon, invite your dog to join you. Prepare the snacks, get cozy, and let the magic of anime bring both of you closer together.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
the neighbor totoro
( Image credit : Ai[chatgpt] )
When you sit down to watch this movie with your dog, you will notice how well it suits a calm evening together. Dogs are naturally drawn to warmth, playfulness, and gentle energy, all of which Totoro embodies. The magical forest scenes filled with soft rain, rustling trees, and dreamy music create a soothing environment, perfect for dogs who prefer calm surroundings. Even the large and cuddly Totoro himself might remind your pup of a favorite stuffed toy, sparking curiosity without causing stress.
Why your dog will love it too:
Calming and melodic soundtrack that avoids sharp or loud noises
Peaceful countryside visuals that create a safe, cozy mood
Themes of family, friendship, and nature that mirror the love between pets and their humans
Wolf Children (2012)
wolf children
( Image credit : Ai[chatgpt] )
Dogs may not fully understand the emotional journey, but they will certainly be intrigued by the animal sounds and wolf imagery. The film portrays themes of unconditional love, sacrifice, and the bond between parent and child, which can mirror the loyal and protective instincts of dogs.
Wolf Children also features wide shots of forests, rivers, and rural landscapes, which can keep your dog visually engaged. Watching this film together can remind you of the strength and resilience found in both human and animal bonds.
Why it works well with dogs:
- Frequent animal sounds and wolf transformations
- Visuals of nature that may capture your dog’s attention
- Strong emotional storytelling that reflects loyalty and family
The Cat Returns (2002)
cat returns
( Image credit : Ai[chatgpt] )
Although the plot centers on cats, dogs are likely to find the film curious and entertaining in their own way. Many dogs perk up when they hear meows, chirps, or other animal sounds, and The Cat Returns is full of such playful noises. The lighthearted banter between characters, the bustling world of animated cats, and the gentle music combine to create an atmosphere that your pup may find both intriguing and soothing.
What makes this movie especially suited for watching with dogs is its cheerful and relaxed tone. Unlike darker or action-heavy anime, The Cat Returns is short, upbeat, and easy to follow. Dogs generally have shorter attention spans, so the film’s relatively brief runtime is ideal. Even if your dog decides to curl up and nap halfway through, you will still be immersed in a colorful and imaginative world that keeps you smiling.
For pet parents, the story is not only entertaining but also heart warming. It celebrates themes of kindness, bravery, and learning to trust yourself, all wrapped in a fantastical setting. Just as Haru finds courage and strength in her adventures, spending time with your dog during such moments reminds you of the joy and comfort pets bring into your life.
Watching The Cat Returns with your furry friend creates a light, playful movie night that balances humor, charm, and gentle adventure. It may not be directly about dogs, but the spirit of fun and companionship it carries makes it a great addition to your anime-and-pets watchlist.
Why your dog will love it too:
- Playful animal sounds like meows and chatter that spark curiosity
- Bright and colorful characters that make the story lively
- Short runtime, perfect for dogs who may not sit through longer films
Summer Wars (2009)
summer wards
( Image credit : Ai[chatgpt] )
The story follows Kenji, a shy high school student with a gift for mathematics, who finds himself drawn into the vast digital realm of OZ, a virtual space where people from all over the world connect. When a dangerous AI begins to wreak havoc, Kenji must team up with his crush Natsuki’s extended family to restore balance both online and in the real world. While the rapid, brightly animated digital battles may catch your dog’s attention with their bursts of color and sound, the film’s true magic lies in the quieter, emotional moments.
Scenes of the family gathered around large tables, sharing meals, laughing, and supporting one another, create a sense of warmth that resonates beyond the screen. Dogs, being deeply intuitive animals, often sense the emotions of the people around them. As you watch these moments of togetherness, your pup may feel the calm, happy energy too. Just as dogs thrive in their pack, Summer Wars celebrates the strength and joy that comes from family unity and collective care.
For your dog, the movie offers a nice balance. The energetic sequences provide brief sparks of stimulation, while the slower, heartfelt parts create an atmosphere where they can comfortably curl up and rest. For you, it’s a reminder that no matter how complex or digital the world becomes, the simple bonds of love and family are what truly matter something your dog already knows instinctively.
Watching Summer Wars with your dog is both entertaining and comforting. It’s an adventure for you and a calm, emotionally rich environment for your pup, making it a wonderful choice for a cozy night in.
Why your dog will love it too:
Bright and colorful visuals that may catch their attention
A steady rhythm of action and calm, keeping the mood balanced
Themes of family unity that mirror a dog’s natural love for their pack
A Letter to Momo (2011)
A Letter to Momo
( Image credit : Ai[chatgpt] )
The soundtrack is equally gentle melodic and understated, with hints of whimsical supernatural tones that add charm without overwhelming. For sensitive dogs, this makes the movie especially comfortable, free of jarring or startling noises. Watching A Letter to Momo at the end of a long day feels like exhaling a quiet time to heal, reflect, and simply be, with your dog soaking up the same atmosphere of calm.
At its heart, the film is about love, memory, and learning to move forward. These are human struggles, but they’re also lessons that dogs seem to embody naturally living fully in the present, while offering unconditional comfort and loyalty. Sharing this story with your pup makes it more than just a film it becomes a reminder of the quiet, healing strength that love and companionship bring.
Why your dog will love it too:
- A calm, soothing pace with gentle background music
- Peaceful countryside settings and natural sounds that feel familiar and safe
- Emotional depth that your dog connects with through your presence and mood
Tips for Watching Anime with Your Dog
Pick anime that’s calm and colorful instead of overly loud or violent. Bright visuals and gentle storytelling are easier on your dog’s senses.
What matters most is the atmosphere of togetherness. Whether your dog is wide awake watching colors dance on the screen or snoozing peacefully at your side, it’s the shared comfort and connection that turn an ordinary movie night into a memorable one.
Anime movies are not only entertaining for humans but can also be shared with your four-legged companions. The five films listed here are excellent choices for cozy nights with your dog, offering a balance of soothing music, engaging visuals, and heartwarming themes.
My Neighbor Totoro provides a whimsical escape into the wonders of nature. Wolf Children offers a touching exploration of family and identity with strong animal connections. The Cat Returns is a playful and lighthearted adventure that entertains with its quirky charm. Summer Wars delivers excitement while celebrating family unity, and A Letter to Momo gently explores themes of loss and healing.
Sharing these films with your dog can strengthen your bond and make movie nights more meaningful. While your pup may not understand the storylines, they will appreciate the calm environment and your presence. After all, dogs value time with their humans above anything else.
So the next time you plan an anime marathon, invite your dog to join you. Prepare the snacks, get cozy, and let the magic of anime bring both of you closer together.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
- Can dogs really watch anime?
Yes, dogs can see the visuals on screen, though they perceive colors differently than humans. While they may not follow the story, they respond to colors, movements, sounds, and especially your emotions during the film. - Which anime genres are best for dogs?
Calm, colorful, and family-friendly genres are best. Slice-of-life, fantasy adventures, or light hearted comedies work better than intense action or horror. - Is anime safe for dogs to watch?
Yes, as long as the volume isn’t too loud and the content isn’t overly violent or stressful. Avoid sudden loud noises, aggressive shouting, or disturbing imagery. - Do dogs enjoy background music in anime?
Many anime films feature gentle, soothing soundtracks, which can relax your dog.