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Disney Dogs Take Center Stage at Hollywood Studios
A charming new wave of character installations has arrived at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, bringing iconic animated canines into the spotlight. Adorable new animal statues—highlighting 101 Dalmatians, Bolt, Oliver & Company, and Mulan—have officially taken up residence in the newly reimagined Animation Courtyard (now themed as part of the Walt Disney Studios Lot).
The courtyard space originally reopened to guests in May 2026, but Imagineers have continued to add playful touches ahead of the area’s main attraction launch.
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Playful Pup Encounters Throughout the Courtyard
Nestled near The Magic of Disney Animation—right where the character “Walk of Fame” is situated to the left of the Studio Store doors—guests can spot a series of spirited new canine scenes:
- Bolt & the Dalmatians: The centerpiece installation features Bolt locked in an energetic game of tug-of-war with two Dalmatian puppies. In a whimsical detail, one of the mischievous puppies grips the end of a toy bone in its mouth, while the second puppy sits nearby, playfully biting the tail of its fellow pup.
- Dodger & Oliver: Just behind a courtyard bench on a nearby grassy patch, cool dog Dodger from Oliver & Company—alongside little Oliver—can be seen slyly trying to sneak a hot dog.
- Little Brother: Braced against a brick wall on the lawn, Mulan’s energetic pup, Little Brother, stands eagerly on his hind legs with a big grin and his tongue lolling out, looking ready for a treat.
Designed to look as though the characters have wandered off the animation desks and directly into the real world, the statues offer fantastic photo ops for fans of all ages.
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The Final Piece of the Courtyard Puzzle
While guests can already explore the open courtyard and hunt for the scattered character statues, the centerpiece experience of the area has yet to open.
The Magic of Disney Animation will officially welcome guests inside on September 14. Disney released an official map of the revamped space in late May, revealing an impressive lineup of fresh experiences, including:
- Olaf Draws!: A reimagined Animation Academy experience hosted by a state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronic Olaf (taking over the traditional role of live artists) alongside pre-recorded video tips from real Disney animators.
- Off the Page!: Six brand-new interactive character meet-and-greet locations themed around different stages of the animation process (featuring Mulan, Rapunzel, Stitch, and more).
- Drawn to Wonderland: An indoor play area for younger guests inspired by Mary Blair’s iconic concept art for Alice in Wonderland.
- Once Upon a Studio Theater: A dedicated space showing the hit short film with enhanced in-theater special effects.
Whether you’re looking to practice your drawing skills with Olaf or snap a photo with Bolt and the Dalmatians, the expanded courtyard offers plenty of new magic for animation lovers to discover.
