Common Sense Media Review
By Sierra Filucci
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Popular puppy series adds a cheery holiday message.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 16 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say that this movie has a mix of opinions, with some praising its heartwarming scenes and inspiring moments, especially for younger viewers, while others criticize it for poor CGI and a lackluster story. The general consensus seems to be that while it may not appeal to older audiences, it has enough charm and positive messages to entertain young children during the holiday season.
- heartwarming scenes
- poor CGI
- mixed opinions
- suitable for children
- holiday entertainment
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Up at the North Pole Santa Claus and his buddy Santa Paws notice that the Christmas spirit icicle is melting. They attribute this not to climate change but to a lack of Christmas spirit in the world, where people have forgotten about the "unselfish spreading of love and kindness" and instead think only of themselves and material things. At the same time, young Puppy Paws is itching to get away from the North Pole to become a normal puppy. He escapes to the real world where he meets up with the familiar Golden Retriever pups who he hopes will help him become a regular dog. These efforts go badly. Simultaneously the cold-hearted dog catcher gathers stray dogs and eventually gets Santa Paws. In the end, the true spirit of Christmas wins out.
Is It Any Good?
Few people will argue that this story is predictable, formulaic, and lacking in any nuance; but hey, it's got puppies. To determine if the Buddies franchise is "good" depends partly on one's opinion of talking animals in movies. Some might find this a disturbingly unnatural quality in a movie that does little to make the characters feel relatable. Others might find a collection of fluffy, cute puppies irresistible and the fact that they speak even more appealing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Christmas spirit. What is Christmas spirit and why are the characters in this movie so concerned about it going away?
If you celebrate Christmas, what do you consider to be the most important part of the holiday? What kinds of activities do you do that help you stay in the Christmas spirit? What would Christmas be like without presents?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 24, 2009
- On DVD or streaming : November 24, 2009
- Cast : Christopher Lloyd , Danny Woodburn , George Wendt
- Director : Robert Vince
- Studio : Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Holidays
- Run time : 88 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : Nada que pueda ofender a los padres para ser visto por los niños.
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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