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Parents' Guide to

Superpower Dogs

By Tara McNamara, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 6+

Science docu unleashes pup power potential; mild peril.

Movie G 2019 45 minutes
Superpower Dogs Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

age 5+

Based on 1 parent review

age 5+

Fun Documentary

Fun documentary about superdogs and their various "professions" to assist people in emergency type scenarios. It kept my 7 year old entertained, but our 3 year old's attention span was in and out.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

IMAX movies can always be counted on for gorgeous, immersive cinematography, but this one takes it further in making science playful and fun. Superpower Dogs speaks to kids about the stuff they love: superheroes and pet dogs. In this case, it shows how dogs have "super senses" and documents the way that certain breeds can hone these senses to save lives and help people. The stories brought to light include a Border Collie on a ski patrol rescue team, a Newfoundland in the Italian Coast Guard, "The Bloodhound Brothers" (who save endangered species from hunters), and a surfing Golden Retriever that helps people deal with anxiety and fear.

It's easy-peasy science: Clear graphics demonstrate why certain breeds are adept at certain skills; for instance, how a bloodhound's nose is physiologically wired for keen scent detection. Most of the film shows the animals hard at work, either tracking down bad guys, training to rescue survivors, or providing emotional support with the aid of humans who give them plenty of ear scratches, belly rubs, and love. The movie's message isn't just about the animals' amazing capabilities; it argues that it's the bond between human and animal that creates the superpower. In other words, together with our four-legged friends, we can be both super and heroes.

Movie Details

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