The series represents the bond between a boy and his ever so faithful dog living in a 19th century Flanders village near Antwerp.

The animators conducted extensive research on 19th century Flanders,[citation needed] although it has to be said that a lot of features in the series are not Flemish but typically Dutch (the girl's hat and the tulips for example).

[citation needed] Although there have been some changes from the original story by Marie Louise de la Ramée, it has been faithful in keeping the storyline accurate.

Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki also worked on the series, respectively as storyboard artist and key animator for episode 15.

Helping Jehan with the daily milk delivery to Antwerp, Nello one day discovers Patrash, a working dog who has been mistreated and abandoned by his former owner.

Voices for orphan children provided by Jessica Evans, Dylan Hart, Sophie Lechken, Alex Mandelberg, Bryce Papenbrook.