Kids and animals just go together—they’re both cute, curious and definitely entertaining – especially at mealtimes. Ever notice how some toddlers and puppies have very similar habits? In honor of Dolphin Tale 2, in theaters September 12, embrace the animal lover in you and check out some of our favorite live-action movies featuring members of the animal kingdom.

The Adventures of Milo and Otis, rated G, 1989

This classic family film from the ‘80s features a cat named Milo and a pug named Otis who become fast friends growing up on the same farm. When the always-too-curious Milo starts playing in a box floating in a river and gets carried downstream, Otis runs to rescue him, leading to several adventures as the two friends struggle to find their way back to each other. Thankfully the movie has a happy ending, because it would be too depressing to see something bad happen to two such adorable animals.

Cats & Dogs, rated PG, 2001

In a much different cat-and-dog story, this one focuses on a secret war going on between cats and dogs as they fight for control of a serum that cures dog allergies in humans. The main animal characters, a beagle named Lou and a cat named Mr. Tinkles, are almost too cute for such treachery, but the stakes are high since Mr. Tinkles has plans for world domination. Kids will enjoy the funny hijinks between the animals and dog-lover parents will get a kick out of the evil cats (C’mon… even cat lovers will admit cats can be pretty crafty).

Beethoven, rated PG, 1992

Featuring a lovable, if bumbling, St. Bernard named Beethoven, this movie focuses on the dog and the family that loves him, even if the dad, played by Charles Grodin, is somewhat hesitant at first to adopt him. Beethoven also comes up against Dr. Varnick, a veterinarian played by Dean Jones with an evil side job that requires a steady stream of dogs for experimentation. All ends well for Beethoven, though, and you might just find yourself wanting to adopt your own St. Bernard.

My Dog Skip, rated PG, 2000

My Dog Skip follows the life of a little terrier named Skip and the shy boy who becomes his best friend. Skip helps his owner, Willie, played by Frankie Muniz, navigate the ups and downs of growing up, leading him to find friends, love and success while always remaining his loyal companion. There are definitely some sad moments in this movie, though, so it might be better for kids who are old enough to understand the cycle of life.

Because of Winn-Dixie, rated PG, 2005

Ten-year-old Opal, played by AnnaSophia Robb, is definitely in need of a friend when she finds a scruffy dog in a Winn-Dixie supermarket. She takes the dog home, names him after the store, and discovers that he can help her make new friends in her new hometown. Ultimately Winn-Dixie leads Opal to improve her strained relationship with her father and to learn more about her mother, who left when she was just three years old. This is another animal movie that deals with some serious topics, but it’s also a great story of hope and family.