Parents' Guide to

K-9 to 5

By Pam Gelman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 5+

Working dogs in some scary jobs; OK for most kids.

TV Animal Planet Educational 1999
K-9 to 5 Poster Image

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What's the Story?

K-9 TO 5 gives viewers a glimpse at some pretty dedicated employees -- employees who happen to have four furry legs, wet noses, and the ability to bark on command. Take Handsome Dan XVI, the bulldog who serves as the mascot of prestigious Yale University, who appears at games, art openings, and parties, and sits for pictures, shakes hands, and lets kids (and adults) pet his head. Just like Handsome Dan, many of the workaholic dogs on K-9 to 5 are presented against a backdrop of peppy music and footage of them in action on the job. But other stories are more touching, such as that of the German shepherd who meets kids at an inner-city child development center. And then there are the incredible stories of the dogs that help out in law enforcement and search and rescue.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

The language and footage of K-9 to 5 are appropriate for all ages. It's the descriptions and context of the pooches' jobs that parents need to be aware of for the youngest viewers -- pre-screening to check for potentially scary occupations isn't a bad idea.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the responsibilities and costs that come along with owning a dog. If kids are asking for a pooch, discuss who will feed, walk, play with, bathe, and train it. Families can also discuss the characteristics of certain breeds and the benefits of a mixed-breed dog. Plus, you can talk about the immense amount of training undertaken by the dogs featured in the show -- and their owners' time commitment. For kids interested in learning more about canine training, look for local shelters or classes to observe.

TV Details

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