An orphan boy learns responsibility, commitment and friendship when he is hired by a heartless, wealthy sportsman to train his handsome Irish setter, Big Red. Soon the boy and dog become inseparable, much to the owner's disapproval, and the boy is fired. But the bonds of loyalty are tested when Big Red runs away and all hope is lost of ever finding him again. The strong bond that exists among man, boy, and dog lead them all into a series of thrilling adventures, setting the course for a life-or-death battle with an unexpected adversary!