You know from the second the soundtrack starts that this is a Disney movie, and as such is going to manipulate you mercilessly. Resistance is futile. Just drink some water beforehand so you don’t get dehydrated by the tear extraction process. Despite my resentment of the emotional manhandling, the movie is redeemed to a large extent by the incredible scenery and charismatic dogs.
The “inspired by a true story” subtitle is part of the manipulation. There was a Japanese movie made about the actual 1958 expedition that provided the inspiration, Nanyoku Monogatari.