Rock Dog is a 2016 computer animated adventure comedy film directed by Ash Brannon and starring the voices of Luke Wilson, Eddie Izzard, J.K. Simmons, Lewis Black, Kenan Thompson, Mae Whitman, Jorge Garcia, Matt Dillon, and Sam Elliott. The film tells the story of Bodi, a Tibetan Mastiff who leaves his village in the Himalayas to pursue his dream of becoming a musician in the big city. Along the way, Bodi befriends a radio DJ named Angus Scattergood who helps Bodi find his true calling. Rock Dog was produced by Mandoo Pictures and Huayi Brothers with animation provided by Reel FX Creative Studios. It was distributed by Lionsgate Films and released theatrically in China on July 8, 2016 and in the United States on February 24, 2017.
Where to Stream Rock Dog
Here are some of the main options for where you can stream Rock Dog online:
Netflix
Rock Dog is currently available for streaming on Netflix in the United States and some other regions. If you have a Netflix subscription, you can watch Rock Dog on demand through the Netflix app or website. The availability on Netflix can vary by country, so you’ll want to check if it’s included in your region.
Hulu
At this time, Rock Dog is not included with a regular Hulu subscription. However, you may be able to rent or purchase the movie through Hulu by adding premium channels like HBO Max or STARZ. Be sure to check back on Hulu though, because their content library frequently changes.
Amazon Prime Video
Rock Dog is available for free streaming for Amazon Prime members in the United States. If you have an Amazon Prime subscription, you can watch the movie as part of your included benefits. It can be streamed through the Prime Video app or website.
iTunes
You can purchase or rent Rock Dog digitally through the iTunes store. Prices may vary but expect to pay around $3.99 to rent and $12.99 to purchase the HD version. Once purchased, you can stream the movie on iTunes compatible devices.
VUDU
Like iTunes, VUDU offers Rock Dog for rental or purchase in SD, HD, and 4K UHD formats. Rental prices are typically $3.99 for HD. Purchasing the movie digitally on VUDU usually costs between $9.99-$14.99 depending on the format. VUDU lets you stream purchased content on a variety of devices.
Microsoft Store
The Microsoft digital media store has Rock Dog available for purchase in SD, HD, and 4K formats. Prices range from $9.99 for SD up to $17.99 for 4K resolution. Once bought, you can stream the movie through the Microsoft Movies & TV app.
YouTube
While you can’t stream the full movie free on YouTube, you can rent or buy Rock Dog on-demand through YouTube Movies. Prices are comparable to other digital retailers at around $3.99 for a rental. After payment, you’ll have access to the full movie on YouTube.
Google Play
Rock Dog is available for purchase or rental directly through the Google Play Movies & TV app and website. Like other digital services, expect pricing between $3.99-$14.99 depending on whether you rent or buy and the video quality. Streamed content can be viewed on Android devices as well as Chromecast and smart TVs.
Physical Copy Options
In addition to digital streaming platforms, you also have some options for getting a physical copy of Rock Dog:
Blu-ray + DVD
Rock Dog was released on Blu-ray and DVD in May 2017, a few months after its theatrical run. This physical format includes Blu-ray and DVD discs, as well as a digital HD copy code and special features like behind the scenes footage. You can find copies to purchase online as well as check for availability at your local library.
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray
There is also a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray version of Rock Dog available for the highest quality home viewing experience. This includes the standard Blu-ray as well but optimized for 4K TVs. You can find this version through major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, usually priced around $24.99.
VHS Tape
While not as common today, Rock Dog did get a VHS tape release primarily for the collectors market. This is the traditional tape cassette version that requires a VHS player. Finding one could be tricky, but check eBay, Amazon, and specialty retailers for any old stock.
Is it on Cable or Network TV?
Rock Dog did premier on television following its theatrical and home media release. Here are some details on catching it that way:
FX
In February 2020, the FX network acquired the linear television rights to Rock Dog. This means the movie began airing on the FX channel for cable subscribers. Air dates and times vary, usually grouped into movie marathons. Check your local FX listings for upcoming showtimes.
Freeform
Like FX, the Freeform channel has also aired Rock Dog for television premieres. Being a Disney-owned network, Freeform sometimes programs family films like this. Keep an eye on Freeform’s schedule for potential Rock Dog airings.
Starz
Starz obtained rights to air Rock Dog on their premium cable channels. Starz often shows movies still in theaters to appeal to subscribers. A subscription is required through cable or streaming packages. Starz on-demand also sometimes includes Rock Dog.
HBO
So far Rock Dog has not been scheduled to premiere on HBO’s channels. But as they regularly acquire films from Lionsgate, it could potentially get play there. Check HBO listings going forward to see if Rock Dog shows up.
Access it Through Your Cable Subscription
If you have a cable, satellite, or live TV streaming subscription, here are some places you may find access to Rock Dog as part of your regular package:
Xfinity
Xfinity X1 and Flex customers may have Rock Dog available through their On Demand library, under Kids and Family. Selection varies by market so availability is not guaranteed.
Spectrum
Spectrum cable TV subscribers can check the Spectrum TV app or On Demand menu for Rock Dog. Streaming access is included with your package.
DirecTV
DirecTV sometimes includes Rock Dog in the On Demand lineup for movie rentals. Access requires a subscription to DirecTV satellite service.
SlingTV
With a Sling Orange base plan, you could get Rock Dog through the FX or Freeform channels on-demand selections. This depends on your market.
Availability on Other Streaming Devices
In addition to smart TVs, phones and computers, you may be able to find Rock Dog on some of these streaming media players:
Roku
If you have a Roku player, you can get Rock Dog through The Roku Channel, FXNOW, or by adding premium subscriptions like Starz. It is also available for purchase directly through the Roku store.
Firestick
Amazon Firestick owners can stream Rock Dog via the Prime Video app. Or get it through addons like Starz or by purchasing from Amazon.
Apple TV
On Apple TV devices, you’re able to stream Rock Dog if you have it rented or purchased through iTunes. No current streaming subscriptions offer the movie.
Chromecast
Cast Rock Dog from compatible apps like Netflix, YouTube, Google Play or mirror it from your Android phone with Chromecast. A Google TV Chromecast also provides access through those services.
Game Consoles
In addition to media streamers, current game consoles offer entertainment apps that may give you access to Rock Dog:
Xbox One
Via the Microsoft Store on Xbox One, you can buy Rock Dog to stream through the console and access it later. Or try apps like Starz and FXNOW if available.
PlayStation 4
On PS4 you can get Rock Dog through the PlayStation Store for purchase or rental. Or try the Starz Play and FXNOW apps if you have those services.
Nintendo Switch
At this time, Rock Dog is not available on the Nintendo eShop or through any streaming apps on Nintendo Switch. Check back for updates on Switch compatibility.
Can I Watch Rock Dog on Airplanes?
You may be able to view Rock Dog through inflight entertainment selections on airlines that offer personal screens at each seat. For example:
Delta
Delta sometimes includes Rock Dog as part of their family movie lineup that passengers can watch for free. Selection varies by aircraft and route.
United
United Airlines entertainment could potentially have Rock Dog available through their Kids playlists. Availability depends on the flight.
American
American Airlines does feature family films but has not yet added Rock Dog to the lineup as of this time. Check back for future flights.
Southwest
Southwest does not offer seatback screens. You would need to stream Rock Dog from your own device, if available through your subscriptions.
Other Ways to Watch
If you are still having trouble finding where to stream Rock Dog online, here are a few other options worth looking into:
Public Library
Check your local public library system to see if they have a copy of Rock Dog available for checkout on DVD or Blu-ray. This option is free with a library card.
Disc Rental Services
Look into DVD rental subscription services like Netflix DVD or Redbox to find physical discs for short term checkout. Current availability is not guaranteed.
Digital Rental
Online rental stores like Vudu and Amazon offer short term digital rentals, usually $3.99 for 48 hours. Useful if you just need temporary access.
TV Everywhere Apps
Download apps for networks like FXNOW or Freeform to stream with a cable login. May include access to Rock Dog on-demand.
Conclusion
While streaming availability can vary over time, there are a number of options to access Rock Dog digitally for rental, purchase or with a subscription. Physical media like Blu-ray or DVD may also be available. Check multiple streaming platforms along with cable sources or airlines when trying to locate where you can watch Rock Dog online or on-the-go. With new streaming services launching regularly, more options may become available so don’t hesitate to search again if needed.