What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedClifford the Big Red Dog
Walt Becker · Film · 2021
If you loved Clifford the Big Red Dog, start with Clifford the Big Red Dog (Norman Bridwell, 1963) — a book from the same story. Below: 4 books, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Clifford the Big Red Dog across media.
What hooked you in Clifford the Big Red Dog was the way extraordinary, larger-than-life companions transform the mundane struggles of childhood into heartwarming adventures.
Start with the source
Books on the same thread
The Call of the Wild
Jack London · Book · 2006
Explores: Man vs. Nature, Survival, Adaptation.
If Clifford the Big Red Dog resonated through its focus on the deep bond between human and animal, you will appreciate this intense journey of survival and primal connection.
Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls: From the Creator of Captain Underpants (Dog Man #7)
Dav Pilkey · Book · 2019
Explores: Friendship, Good vs Evil, Teamwork.
Much like the chaotic joy found in Clifford the Big Red Dog, this story highlights how a unique, canine-led perspective helps navigate a world filled with constant, humorous trouble.
James and the Giant Peach
Roald Dahl · Book · 1961
Explores: Orphanhood, Escapism, Friendship.
Clifford the Big Red Dog thrives on the wonder of an oversized companion, a sense of magical scale that mirrors the surreal, transformative adventure found within this classic tale.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
J. K. Rowling · Book · 1997
Explores: Good vs. Evil, Orphanhood, Friendship.
If the feeling of finding belonging in Clifford the Big Red Dog moved you, you will connect with this story of an outsider discovering their true, hidden potential.
Series on the same thread
Bluey
Joe Brumm · Series · 2018
Explores: Family Relationships, Imaginative Play, Childhood Development.
Fans of Clifford the Big Red Dog who enjoy the heartwarming antics of a lovable dog will adore how this series turns everyday family life into an extraordinary experience.
Courage the Cowardly Dog
John R. Dilworth · Series · 1999
Explores: Paranoia, Rural Isolation, Protecting Family.
While Clifford the Big Red Dog celebrates the comfort of a loyal pet, this show explores the intense, surreal lengths a dog will go to protect his family.
Steven Universe
Rebecca Sugar · Series · 2013
Explores: Friendship, Self-discovery, Redemption.
The emotional growth Emily experiences alongside her pet in Clifford the Big Red Dog is mirrored here as a young boy learns to navigate his powers and identity.
Sweet Tooth
Jim Mickle · Series · 2021
Explores: Hybrid Humans, Child Protagonist, Unlikely Friendships.
If you enjoyed the protective friendship showcased in Clifford the Big Red Dog, you will be drawn to this story of a unique protagonist finding hope with a protector.
Podcasts on the same thread
Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend
Team Coco & Earwolf · Podcast · 2026
Explores: parasocial relationships, professional intimacy, self-deprecating humor.
The focus on forming unexpected, lasting connections that anchors Clifford the Big Red Dog is examined here through a humorous, conversational lens regarding the nature of modern friendship.
The Adventure Zone
The McElroys · Podcast · 2026
Explores: improvised storytelling, group dynamics, high fantasy satire.
Much like the sense of shared mission found in Clifford the Big Red Dog, this podcast captures the importance of team dynamics when embarking on a high-stakes adventure.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Clifford the Big Red Dog based on a book?
Yes, the 2021 film Clifford the Big Red Dog is an adaptation of the original children's book series that first debuted in 1963. While the movie features a live-action take on the character, the source material remains the classic stories written by Norman Bridwell.
What is the plot of the 2021 Clifford the Big Red Dog movie?
In Clifford the Big Red Dog, a young girl named Emily discovers a small red puppy that grows to a gigantic size overnight. Emily and her Uncle Casey must protect Clifford from a greedy genetics company while traveling across New York City to keep him safe.
Does Clifford the Big Red Dog grow to a giant size in the movie?
Yes, Clifford the Big Red Dog undergoes a massive growth spurt after Emily adopts him. This sudden change in size attracts the attention of a genetics company, which forces Emily and her Uncle Casey to go on the run to protect their oversized puppy.
Who does Emily team up with in Clifford the Big Red Dog?
In the 2021 film Clifford the Big Red Dog, Emily teams up with her Uncle Casey. Together, they work to protect Clifford from a genetics company that wants to capture the dog after he experiences an unexpected and massive growth spurt in New York City.