What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedClifford the Big Red Dog
Norman Bridwell · Book · 1963
If you loved Clifford the Big Red Dog, start with Clifford the Big Red Dog (Walt Becker, 2021) — a film from the same story. Below: 4 films, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Clifford the Big Red Dog across media.
What hooked you in Clifford the Big Red Dog is the profound way that extraordinary bonds transform the everyday world around you.
Start with the source
Adaptation
Clifford the Big Red Dog
Walt Becker · Film · 2021
Films on the same thread
The Wizard of Oz
Victor Fleming · Film · 1939
Shares a thread with Clifford the Big Red Dog: Friendship.
Just as Clifford the Big Red Dog explores the comfort of an oversized companion, this story captures the magic of finding belonging and unconditional friendship in unfamiliar, fantastical places.
The Iron Giant
Brad Bird · Film · 1999
Shares a thread with Clifford the Big Red Dog: Friendship.
The connection between a boy and his massive, misunderstood friend mirrors the heart of Clifford the Big Red Dog, emphasizing how acceptance can bridge even the widest social gaps.
The Red Balloon
Albert Lamorisse · Film · 1956
Shares a thread with Clifford the Big Red Dog: Friendship.
This film echoes the pure, simple devotion found in Clifford the Big Red Dog, focusing on the deep emotional attachment that forms between a child and their unique friend.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Steven Spielberg · Film · 1982
Explores: Childhood Friendship, Alien Encounter, Government Conspiracy.
Much like the bond between Emily Elizabeth and her oversized pet in Clifford the Big Red Dog, this story celebrates the protective, secret friendship between a child and visitor.
Series on the same thread
Reading Rainbow
Series · 1983
Explores: Literacy, Imagination, Cultural Exploration.
If you cherished the gentle storytelling in Clifford the Big Red Dog, this series offers a similar space for imagination and growth through the shared love of literature.
Sesame Street
Lloyd Morrisett · Series · 1969
Shares a thread with Clifford the Big Red Dog: Friendship.
This program builds on the same values of community and kindness central to Clifford the Big Red Dog, helping young viewers navigate social skills in a welcoming environment.
Bluey
Joe Brumm · Series · 2018
Explores: Family Relationships, Imaginative Play, Childhood Development.
This series captures the same spirit of playful discovery and family warmth that defines Clifford the Big Red Dog, focusing on how a canine companion enriches daily life.
Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!
Joe Ruby · Series · 1969
Explores: Teen Detectives, Teamwork, Exposing Scams.
Fans of Clifford the Big Red Dog will recognize the joy of a loyal, larger-than-life canine companion who remains at the center of every adventure and mystery solved.
Podcasts on the same thread
Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend
Team Coco & Earwolf · Podcast · 2026
Explores: parasocial relationships, professional intimacy, self-deprecating humor.
This exploration of human connection mirrors the sincerity found in Clifford the Big Red Dog, shifting the focus toward the universal need for friendship and genuine personal belonging.
Common Man
Podcast
Explores: Positivity, Encouragement, Personal Development.
The focus on encouragement and positive growth aligns with the nurturing themes of Clifford the Big Red Dog, providing an uplifting perspective on navigating life with a steady heart.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Clifford the Big Red Dog based on a book?
Yes, Clifford the Big Red Dog is based on the original 1963 book written by Norman Bridwell. The book details the activities that Emily Elizabeth enjoys with her very big red dog and how the two of them take care of each other.
What is the premise of Clifford the Big Red Dog?
In Clifford the Big Red Dog, the main character Emily Elizabeth describes her daily life and activities with her giant red canine companion. The story focuses on the bond they share and the ways in which they look after one another throughout their time together.
Is there a movie version of Clifford the Big Red Dog?
Yes, there is a movie adaptation of Clifford the Big Red Dog released in 2021. This film adapts the source material from the 1963 book by Norman Bridwell, which follows the adventures of Emily Elizabeth and her unusually large red dog.
How does the 2021 movie compare to the original Clifford the Big Red Dog book?
The 2021 movie adaptation of Clifford the Big Red Dog draws from the 1963 book by Norman Bridwell. While the book focuses on the simple activities and mutual care shared between Emily Elizabeth and her pet, the film expands these themes into a full-length feature production.