Also, I really love how those little guys cheered and rooted for him during the DDR scene (you can hear their excited, little squeaks after every time he wins a round), and here Alpha is saving them from the splat-a-pult. Those subtle little moments were enough for me to tell the bond between them must be really strong, they're clearly fond of each other.
Also, did you notice in the beginning, how the little armadillo kid is snuggling up to his mom, he's like: "Mom, I'm scared!", and the armadillo mama is embracing him with one of her legs. Such a sweet moment! It's happening rather quickly, but I hope it's still visible.