Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sweet, funny romcom has strong language, sexual references.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Puppy Love
What's the Story?
In PUPPY LOVE, Nicole (Lucy Hale) and Max (Grant Gustin) are pulled back together following a disastrous first date when they discover her dog accidentally got his dog pregnant. As they are forced to adapt their lives to the idea of "co-parenting," could there be love in the air for them after all, or will they both end up permanently in the doghouse?
Is It Any Good?
There's no denying it's a cutesy premise, but the likable stars and a screenplay that doesn't entirely roll over into schmaltz makes this doggy romcom surprisingly enjoyable. Puppy Love gives its characters more complexity than your average boy-meets-girl flick, and Hale (Pretty Little Liars) and Gustin (The Flash) elevate the material further with believable acting and strong comedy timing. The movie works for its moments of connection and there's also plenty of humor to keep things light. Sharper-than-average writing, characters to root for and plenty of adorable canine fun mean this will appeal to romcom fans and dog-lovers alike.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Puppy Love portrayed the responsibilities of having a pet. Did you think Nicole and Max were responsible owners? Would you go to similar lengths for your pet?
Discuss the language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How were drinking and smoking depicted in the film? Were they glamorized? Why does that matter?
How were sex and relationships portrayed? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
The two leads learn to show teamwork, compassion, and communication. Why are these important character strengths? Can you think of times you've shown any of these qualities in real life?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : August 18, 2023
- Cast : Lucy Hale , Grant Gustin , Nore Davis , Jane Seymour
- Directors : Nick Fabiano , Richard Alan Reid
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Amazon Freevee
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Animals
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Teamwork
- Run time : 106 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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