Pretzel and the Puppies

Pretzel and the Puppies

show

TV-Y, 2022, Animation, Family

WISE
84%

WISE Score

7.6

IMDb

Dachshund parents coach their puppies through life's little problems in this wholesome, colorful Apple TV+ preschool series.

IMDb7.6
Common Sense Media
Where to Watch
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Screenwise Verdict

Pretzel and the Puppies is exactly what it promises: a gentle, colorful preschool show that teaches problem-solving and kindness without being preachy or annoying. It's not going to blow anyone's mind with innovation, but it does its job well.

The real win here is that it models good parenting—the adult dogs actually let their kids struggle and figure things out rather than swooping in to fix everything. That's rare enough to be worth noting.

If you've got a 3-5 year old and Apple TV+, this is a solid addition to the rotation. It won't make you want to claw your eyes out during the inevitable repeat viewings, and your kid might actually learn something about working through challenges. That's a win in the preschool TV landscape.

Age Fit

This is squarely aimed at 3-6 year olds and hits that target perfectly. Once kids hit elementary school, they'll likely find it too babyish, though it could work as comfort viewing for younger-skewing kindergarteners.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

Parent reviews consistently highlight positive role models, great messages, and emotionally healthy content. Features positive father example, female leadership, and models problem-solving and kindness. Pacing is appropriate for preschoolers without being chaotic.

Imaginative
68

Colorful animation and problem-solving scenarios encourage kids to think through solutions, but the format is fairly standard preschool fare without particularly innovative or boundary-pushing creative elements. It's pleasant and engaging but not groundbreaking.

Safe
98

Explicitly designed for preschoolers (age 3+) with no concerning content whatsoever. Available in kids mode on Apple TV+. Parent reviews uniformly praise its safety and appropriateness. Zero red flags across all sources.

Enriching
78

Strong focus on social-emotional learning, problem-solving, and making the world better. Parents note great messages and role models. It teaches cooperation and encourages independent thinking, though it's solidly in the 'gentle lessons' preschool category rather than deeply challenging content.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Actually models good parenting—Pretzel and Greta guide rather than solve everything, teaching kids to think through problems
  • Positive representation with female leadership and involved father figures without making it A Thing
  • Bright, engaging animation that holds preschooler attention without being overstimulating
  • Parents genuinely enjoy watching it with their kids (not just tolerating it)
  • Strong social-emotional learning baked into every episode

What to Watch For

  • It's sweet. Like, really sweet. If you're looking for edge or humor that lands with adults, this isn't it
  • Firmly in the preschool zone—older kids will bounce off it immediately
  • Requires Apple TV+ subscription, so factor that into your streaming budget

Conversation Starters

  • "How did the puppies figure out their problem? What would you have tried?"
  • "Which puppy do you think you're most like? Why?"
  • "What's something you want to try to solve on your own this week?"

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