Air Bud Returns to Theaters with Dog-Friendly Summer Screenings

The touring events serve as a prelude to the upcoming theatrical release of Air Bud Returns, scheduled for January 22, 2027. Attendees at the Los Angeles, Chicago, and Kansas City screenings will receive an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the new film, which follows the story of a teenager named Jacob and his journey to basketball stardom with the help of a stray golden retriever. The screenings are part of the PEDIGREE brand's "Good Then, Better Now" campaign, highlighting the company’s long-standing connection to pet-owning families.

Beyond the film, the events will feature interactive activations, including a custom basketball hoop and themed photo booths. To accommodate the canine guests, organizers have installed pet hydration stations and will distribute product samples and limited-edition merchandise. Robert Vince, the director of the new installment, emphasized that the series aims to recreate the nostalgia of the original franchise while introducing the underdog story to a new generation. The tour kicks off August 3 in Studio City, California, followed by stops in Chicago on August 5 and Kansas City on August 10.