Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Dog Gone

film

Dog Gone

2023

When his beloved dog goes missing, a young man embarks on an incredible search with his parents to find him and give him life-saving medication.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? Generally suitable for older children, but the missing pet, medical urgency, separation, emotional family conflict, and tense search situations may be upsetting for younger viewers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5
  • Death of a character1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Standard product placement expected in a modern film.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

There is no death of major characters, though there is constant concern for the dog's life.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Contains very mild language suitable for a general audience.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Minor mentions or hints of relationships, not a primary focus.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

The fear of losing a pet and the dangerous environments of the trail create mild tension.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional background presence of alcohol or smoking.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor instances of struggle or peril during the search for the dog.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The characters exhibit persistent bravery and resolve in a difficult situation.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Uses creative search methods and community outreach to resolve the conflict.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

The cast features a moderate mix of backgrounds in supporting roles.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental lessons about Appalachian Trail geography and pet care.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Care for the dog and cooperation among family members are central, with compassion driving the search.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong messages support perseverance, family reconciliation, loyalty, hope, and caring responsibly for animals.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonists show great dedication and growth in their familial relationship.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Dog Gone would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Dog Gone, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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