Approved for All Ages

Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero

The true story of a stray dog who joins his new master on the battlefields of the First World War. For his valorous actions, Sgt. Stubby is still recognized as the most decorated dog in American history.
4
Negative Rating
12345
SexLanguageViolenceDrugsNudityOther
4
Positive Rating
12345
FaithIntegrity

Dove Review

Based on a true story, Sgt. Stubby is the harrowing and heartwarming tale of two unlikely friends weathering the worst storm of their lives: World War I.  

Stubby, a hungry, rambunctious stray dog, stumbles into an Army training camp home to the Yankee division. He instantly takes to Robert, a kind young soldier who takes him in. Stubby trains right alongside the Yankee company and quickly earns the respect of all the soldiers and commanding officers. He’s brave, fast, and devoted to his pals. When Robert and Yankee company must ship out to their station in France, Stubby makes a daring escape to join them. Set against the backdrop of a terrifying war, Stubby and Robert’s friendship and devotion to one another is a joy to watch. 

Stubby’s heroism is inspiring! The little fellow faces scary situations head-on, which prompts Robert and the rest of the company to follow suit. He is noted as the most decorated dog of WWI, and this film explores his many exploits. Stubby is right alongside Robert on the front lines of the siege in France, preventing the Germans from taking Paris. He warned soldiers and villagers of imminent gas attacks, captured a spy, and dug injured soldiers out of the rubble… all while bringing happiness and relief to our boys in Yankee Company. The animation is done well, and the narration by Helena Bonham Carter (as Robert’s sister Margaret) keeps the story moving along at a nice pace. “Sgt. Stubby” is such a fantastic and refreshingly different kind of war film. Not only does it handle the subject matter of war in a kid-appropriate way, but it really covers subjects of friendship, devotion, and bravery. Stubby’s courage is incredible, and it’s hard to believe a dog could accomplish so many things under such difficult circumstances. I was mesmerized while watching and was deeply touched by some moments in the film. 

Sgt. Stubby is a classic ‘man’s best friend’ tale with a lovable heroine, plenty of age-appropriate drama, and an inspiring story for the whole family. Dove is pleased to award the Dove Seal of Approval for All Ages to Sgt. Stubby.

Dove Rating Details

0
Faith

None

4
Integrity

Animated war scenes, guns, explosions, injured soldiers, use of mustard/tear gas (no blood or gore is shown); a fistfight

0
Sex

None

1
Language

"Moron" and other minor insults

1
Violence

Animated war scenes, guns, explosions, injured soldiers, use of mustard/tear gas (no blood or gore is shown); a fistfight

1
Drugs

A man drinks some wine

1
Nudity

A man is seen in the bathtub - only his arms are shown

0
Other

None

More Information