Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero Parent Guide

Sometimes a boy adopts a stray dog, other times the stray dog adopts the boy. The latter is the case for Robert Conroy (voice of Logan Lerman), a young soldier who shows a little kindness to a homeless, mix-breed bull terrier, and is then followed back to boot camp. Unable to shake the pup’s affection, Robert eventually accepts his offer of belonging and names the short-tailed mutt Stubby. Fortunately, the animal’s good nature, positive effect on morale, ability to perform military drills and even salute, also wins over Robert’s commanding officers at the Yale University training grounds for the Great War.

When the time comes for the United States’ 102nd Infantry Regiment to ship out, one of the hardest things for Robert to leave behind is Stubby. Once again, the dog chooses the boy, and stows away aboard the SS Minnesota. His presence is only discovered once the boat is well out to sea. Using the same canine charm, the mongrel quickly convinces the top brass that he should be the troop’s official mascot.

It isn’t until the regiment reaches the front lines in France, on 5 February 1918, that Stubby’s real value is discovered. Unafraid of the loud shelling and gunfire, the little dog patrols the trenches, sniffs out trouble, and even rescues the wounded left for dead in the no-man’s-land between the opposing forces. Over time, Stubby’s acts of valor are recognized and he becomes the first pooch to receive the rank of Sargent.

Based on a remarkable true story, this animation about the big accomplishments of a little dog provides a great way to introduce children to the history of World War I. Although the movie includes depictions of weapons use, gas attacks and the flu pandemic of 1918, along with resulting injuries and deaths, all of the violence is sanitized. These non-graphic and bloodless portrayals offer parents a family-friendly opportunity to discuss the serious nature of the challenges faced by those on the battlegrounds.

Narrated by Helena Bonham Carter (who hails from the UK), the screenplay makes mention of prejudice with a German character (voice of Jim Pharr) and some racial slurs against the enemy. It gives a nod to the Allied Forces by showing the Yankee’s combined efforts with French fighters (one voiced by Gérard Depardieu), which are accompanied by occasional alcohol consumption (it’s a cultural thing!). And the script has an American patriotic feel throughout. Regardless of one’s nationality, this heartwarming production will have tails wagging for Sgt. Stubby’s stellar example of dedication to duty, courage under fire and love for his fellow beings.

PS: Stay and watch the movie’s credits, where you will see photographs of the real Sgt. Stubby and his pal, Robert Conroy.

About author

Donna Gustafson

Donna Gustafson has been involved with her husband Rod's work since the beginning. Handling many of the behind-the-scenes tasks, she also creates preview pages for up-coming movies, acts as managing editor and occasionally writes reviews.