A touching story from China about seven dogs that escaped captivity and set out together on a journey home has gone viral online.
According to Chinese media reports, the dogs were stolen from a village in northeastern China on March 16, 2026, by individuals allegedly linked to dog meat operations.
However, the dogs managed to escape and appeared to choose to make their way back home together.
In context, the consumption of dog meat remains legal in China, although some cities, including Shenzhen, banned the practice in 2020.
A video shared by a netizen surnamed Lu has gone viral online, showing a group of dogs—including Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and Pekingese—carefully guiding an injured German Shepherd across a busy highway. The pack, led by a Corgi at the front, repeatedly looked back to make sure none of their companions were left behind.
There is no public information about the whereabouts of the alleged thieves.
Speaking to local media outlet Dahe Daily, Lu said, “They resemble a band of little ones in distress, moving in unison—nothing like stray dogs.”
Reports suggest the dogs came from the same area where the video was filmed and had formed strong bonds while roaming together. Authorities have reportedly deployed a drone unit to track the dogs and ensure they safely return.
A dog owner responsible for a Golden Retriever and a German Shepherd shared relief after his pets returned home safely, saying, “We are so lucky they came back and were not eaten.”
The owner of the Corgi also praised the dog’s leadership and intelligence during the journey.
The group’s remarkable return has captured widespread attention online, with many netizens calling for stronger animal protection laws.
One user commented, “The fact that they stayed together to protect their injured friend instead of just running for themselves tells you everything you need to know about dogs. We don’t deserve them.”
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