Dug from UP (the Talking Version) Debuts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Since this article was written, the talking Dug has returned to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. He now meets on the Discovery Island Trails. You can read more about meeting the talking Dug on the Discovery Island Trails. The article below details his original debut in 2024, which was only for a limited time.
I just met you, and I love you! Does that sound familiar? It might if you’ve watched Disney’s Pixar UP or met the talking Dug at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! We recently visited the Animal Kingdom in search of Dug to see what he had to say. Below, we’ll discuss how, where, and when you might find him. Since he’s a surprise and delight character, it might require a little bit of waiting!
Dug formerly met with Russell at the Wilderness Explorer’s Clubhouse at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. They rotated spots throughout the day. But a new Dug that talks recently debuted as a roaming character. So Russell has the clubhouse to himself while Dug rotates, roaming Discovery Island with Kevin!
At the time of publication, neither Kevin nor Dug is listed in the My Disney Experience app. We hope that changes because we had to wait for a while to see Dug. When we first arrived at the park, Dug was out but took a break shortly after. He didn’t return until 1.5 hours later. During that time, Kevin came out several times, so we were able to easily see her.
Dug roams Discovery Island. You might find him near the Tree of Life, on the Discovery Island Trails, or hanging around the outskirts of the Wilderness Explorer’s Clubhouse, checking in with Russell. If you don’t see him out, the best place to wait is in front of the stage for the Viva Gaia Street Band. This is the large open area along the walkway in front of Flame Tree Barbecue. If the band is playing, you won’t be able to hear Dug, so you might follow along as he starts on his walk.
Here is a closer look at the fenced area where Dug, Kevin, and Russell all come and go from their character meet-and-greets.
Since Dug is a speaking character, we recorded a little footage of him talking. His commands are pretty basic, just like in the movie.
Overall, this is an excellent meet-and-greet opportunity at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and we hope the talking Dug is here to stay for some time! If you have difficulty locating Dug, my best advice is to ask a cast member wearing a light blue shirt. They work with characters and are always wonderful to help out! We’re always uncovering new details around Disney World.  If you would like to learn more about characters at this park, see our full guide, which has a list of what characters are at Animal Kingdom. Or for characters in general, see our complete list of where to find characters at Disney World. Visit Resorts Gal again soon for more vacation planning details, news, and updates.
More Character Coverage from Up!
Meet Dug and Russell on the Discovery Island Trails: Dug and Russell debuted at this location in late 2025. Dug often still meets here.
Meet Kevin at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Find out where Kevin roams in search of chocolate at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Dug and Russell at the Wilderness Explorer’s Clubhouse: Dug and Russell met at the Wilderness Explorer’s Clubhouse for many years until late 2025. This location is now called the Gathering Day Spot, where Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps meet guests.
In the Comments
Do you hope to meet the talking Dug during your next Walt Disney World vacation? Is he one of your favorite characters? Let us know below in the comments section.
