Space Dogs

Kazbek is the Baikonur training center's German Shepherd trainer who must select the best dogs for the flight. He guides the team with authority, care, and an inner conflict between duty and his affections for the dogs. He ultimately stows away on the flight, risking exposure to preserve the mission and his relationship with Belka.

Strelka is a brave terrier who escapes capture and becomes one of the flight dogs. She carries a longing about her star-father Sirius and demonstrates leadership and resilience throughout training and the mission. Her courage drives the group toward the chance of little ones venturing into space and back home.

Belka is a confident Samoyed who rises to become a central figure in the flight and later return. She struggles with the initial control issues in space but stays resourceful, forming a bond with Kazbek and inspiring the others. After the mission, she returns to the circus as a star and continues to embody resilience.

Mops is a clever, resourceful dog who takes part in the group dynamics during training and selection. He shows resilience and a playful spirit that helps keep morale high among the space-bound team.

Venya is a streetwise dog who navigates urban Moscow and later becomes a storyteller of the dogs’ adventures. He participates in the early events and uses wit and social charm to help the group cope with danger and uncertainty.

Lenny is a crafty rat who interacts with the canine crew, aiding in minor schemes and coin-getting at payphones. He provides a mischievous counterpoint to the dogs’ earnest mission and contributes to the film’s sense of neighborhood adventure.

Bula is one of the dogs in the group and is known for being part of the pack that trains for the mission. She embodies the competitive spirit and companionship that strengthens the crew.

Mula is a pug who contributes to the dogs’ dynamic, offering cheer and steady presence during training and flight preparation.

Pirate is a wolf who joins the stray-dog circle, adding strength and a touch of wild instinct to the pack as they navigate their journey from streets to space.

The mysterious dog catcher from Moscow 1960 is the antagonist who captures dogs and creates peril for Strelka and her friends at the start of the story.