101 Dalmatians: The Series

101 Dalmatians: The Series is an American animated show that ran from September 1, 1997, to March 4, 1998, on ABC as part of the One Saturday Morning programming block. Produced by Walt Disney Television Animation and Jumbo Pictures, it draws from the 1961 Disney animated film and its 1996 live-action version. It holds the distinction of being the first TV series in the 101 Dalmatians franchise. Note: While it premiered before the block's official launch, it was not the first program to air on ABC's One Saturday Morning block (that honor goes to Recess, which debuted on September 13, 1997). Many crew members had previously worked on the Timon & Pumbaa series, and the show was developed by Doug creator Jim Jinkins and his partner David Campbell.

The story centers on three puppy siblings: Lucky, a TV-obsessed and unconventional leader; Rolly, his cheerful, easygoing, and perpetually hungry brother; and Cadpig, the runt of the litter who is odd but lovable. They are often joined by Spot, a chicken who longs to be a dog and join the Bark Brigade. Early promotional materials listed dictatorial Penny and mischievous Patch as main characters, but the focus was narrowed to three puppies, so Penny was dropped and Patch was no longer a lead. Unlike the 1950s setting of the original film and the 1990s setting of the 1996 live-action movie, this series takes place in the 1990s United States on the Dearly Farm.

Other puppies include the fearless three-legged Tripod, the friendly dimwitted Dipstick, the constantly urinating Wizzer, the fashion-conscious diva Two-Tone, and the sheepdog mix Mooch, who acts as the farm's bully. Patch makes occasional appearances but with a different personality than originally promoted.

Main characters include Lucky (voiced by Pamela Adlon), the plucky puppy with a horseshoe-shaped spot on his back, who is adventurous but often gets the group into trouble due to his TV obsession. Cadpig (voiced by Kath Soucie) is the smallest puppy, with long floppy ears and a big head; she is highly intelligent but abstract-minded, kind-hearted, strong for her size, and prone to a strong temper. Rolly (voiced by Debi Mae West) is always hungry, basing decisions on food, but is cheerful, diligent, and has an incredible sense of smell, though he is timid and an easy target for bullies.