15 Animes Similar to 101 Dalmatians: The Series

101 Dalmatians: The Series (1997) blends adventure, teamwork, and lighthearted charm as the dalmatian pups navigate mischief and camaraderie. Its core themes—underdog resilience, found-family bonds, and episodic adventures—resonate in lesser-known anime gems.

These 15 underrated series echo its spirit through unique animation, heartfelt storytelling, and character-driven narratives, offering fresh experiences beyond mainstream hits.

1. Flying Witch (2016)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll, HiDive
• Episodes: 12
• MAL Rating: 7.50 (#2001)
• Studio: J.C.Staff
• Plot: Teen witch Makoto moves to rural Aomori for training, blending daily life with whimsical magic. Her journey explores self-discovery alongside her talking cat Chito and curious relatives.
• Similarities: Lighthearted, episodic structure focusing on character bonds and low-stakes adventures, akin to the dalmatians’ playful escapades.

2. Last Exile (2003)

• Streaming: Hulu, Tubi
• Episodes: 26
• MAL Rating: 7.78 (#1106)
• Studio: Gonzo
• Plot: Couriers Claus and Lavie deliver a mysterious girl aboard the battleship Silvana, unraveling political conspiracies in a steam-punk sky world.
• Similarities: Adventure-driven narrative with young protagonists facing larger forces, echoing the teamwork and daring missions in 101 Dalmatians.

3. Gunslinger Girl (2003)

• Streaming: Funimation
• Episodes: 13
• MAL Rating: 7.38 (#2493)
• Studio: Madhouse
• Plot: Orphaned girls turned cyborg assassins bond with handlers while undertaking missions for a shadowy Italian agency.
• Similarities: Focus on found-family dynamics and character growth amid peril, mirroring the dalmatians’ loyalty and resilience.

4. One Outs (2008)

• Streaming: Netflix
• Episodes: 25
• MAL Rating: 8.32 (#264)
• Studio: Madhouse
• Plot: Gambler-pitcher Toua Tokuchi joins a baseball team with a high-stakes contract: ¥5 million per out, ¥50 million per run conceded.
• Similarities: Underdog triumph and strategic cleverness, paralleling the pups’ resourcefulness against adversaries.

5. Ghost Hound (2007)

• Streaming: Sentai Filmworks
• Episodes: 22
• MAL Rating: 7.40 (est.)
• Studio: Production I.G
• Plot: Three boys with childhood trauma navigate a spirit world bleeding into reality, uncovering town secrets.
• Similarities: Supernatural mystery with emotional depth and ensemble chemistry, reflecting the dalmatians’ collaborative problem-solving.

6. Symphogear (2012)

• Streaming: Funimation
• Episodes: 65 (5 seasons)
• MAL Rating: 7.60 (avg.)
• Studio: Satelight
• Plot: Idols use song-powered armor to battle alien “Noise,” blending music, mecha, and personal sacrifice.
• Similarities: Themes of protection and unity against overwhelming odds, akin to the dalmatians guarding their family.

7. .Hack//Sign (2002)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Episodes: 26
• MAL Rating: 7.10
• Studio: Bee Train
• Plot: Amnesiac player Tsukasa navigates a VR game’s glitches, seeking escape while allies uncover its dark secrets.
• Similarities: Ensemble-driven adventure with puzzle-solving and trust-building, reminiscent of the pups’ collaborative exploits.

8. Chrono Crusade (2003)

• Streaming: Funimation
• Episodes: 24
• MAL Rating: 7.60
• Studio: Gonzo
• Plot: Exorcist Rosette and demon Chrono battle evil in 1920s America, racing against her shortening lifespan.
• Similarities: Balancing action with heartfelt character bonds, echoing the dalmatians’ loyalty and courage.

9. Dennou Coil (2007)

• Streaming: Amazon Prime
• Episodes: 26
• MAL Rating: 8.10
• Studio: Madhouse
• Plot: Kids explore a cyber-augmented city, uncovering digital ghosts and corporate conspiracies through AR glasses.
• Similarities: Child-centric adventure blending technology and mystery, akin to the pups’ curiosity-driven escapades.

10. Full Metal Panic! (2002)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Episodes: 24
• MAL Rating: 7.80
• Studio: Gonzo
• Plot: Mercenary Sousuke protects “whispered” girl Kaname, juggling high-school life and mecha battles.
• Similarities: Humorous yet high-stakes teamwork, mirroring the dalmatians’ blend of mischief and heroism.

11. Air Gear (2006)

• Streaming: Hulu
• Episodes: 25
• MAL Rating: 7.40
• Studio: Toei Animation
• Plot: Delinquent Ikki joins high-flying rollerblade gangs, battling rivals for supremacy in a kinetic sport.
• Similarities: Underdog camaraderie and kinetic adventure, reflecting the pups’ energetic, obstacle-filled journeys.

12. Serial Experiments Lain (1998)

• Streaming: Funimation
• Episodes: 13
• MAL Rating: 7.80
• Studio: Triangle Staff
• Plot: Introvert Lain delves into the digital “Wired” realm, blurring reality and virtual identity.
• Similarities: Unconventional storytelling and exploration of hidden worlds, paralleling the dalmatians’ discovery of human society.

13. Ghost Hunt (2006)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Episodes: 25
• MAL Rating: 7.70
• Studio: J.C.Staff
• Plot: Teen Mai aids paranormal investigators, tackling haunted sites with tech and psychic skills.
• Similarities: Episodic mysteries and team-driven problem-solving, akin to the pups’ collaborative antics.

14. Welcome to the NHK (2006)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Episodes: 24
• MAL Rating: 8.00
• Studio: Gonzo
• Plot: Recluse Sato battles delusions with help from a girl claiming to “cure” his hikikomori lifestyle.
• Similarities: Quirky character growth and dark humor, reflecting the dalmatians’ humorous yet poignant moments.

15. Angolmois (2018)

• Streaming: Amazon Prime
• Episodes: 12
• MAL Rating: 6.90
• Studio: NAZ
• Plot: Exiled samurai defend Tsushima Island from Mongol invaders in 13th-century Japan.
• Similarities: Underdog resilience and tactical teamwork, mirroring the pups’ defiance against Cruella.

Why These Anime Work for 101 Dalmatians: The Series Fans

These series prioritize character-driven storytelling, where bonds—whether familial, friendly, or adversarial—anchor the narrative. Like the dalmatians’ adventures, they balance lighthearted charm with high stakes, using unique animation styles (e.g., Dennou Coil’s digital aesthetics) to enhance immersion. Crucially, they spotlight underdog triumphs, proving that even obscure titles can deliver heart and creativity rivaling mainstream hits. For fans seeking warmth, wit, and teamwork beyond the expected, these hidden gems offer rewarding journeys.