Dogs are the most popular pets in the country. They’re loyal, playful and intelligent — and they can also do some incredible things, as these five tales (or should that be tails?) demonstrate.Â
Jinx
In 2023, a cocker spaniel called Jinx became the first conservation detection dog in the UK. His job is to patrol the Welsh coast in search of rats, which eat the eggs of a bird called the Manx shearwater. Jinx is only three years old, but he’s already protecting Welsh seabirds!Â
Swansea Jack
Swansea Jack was a black retriever who became famous for his life-saving abilities. Over the years, he jumped into the water and saved 27 people from drowning in docks and rivers — including a 12-year-old boy. He was named the Bravest Dog of the Year by a London newspaper.Â
Sergeant Stubby
In 1917, a waggy-tailed stray terrier wandered onto an American army base. The soldiers loved him and called him Sergeant Stubby. He joined them in 17 different battles, barking to let medics know when people were injured. In 2018 he even had an animated film made about him!Â
Hachiko
A Japanese dog called Hachiko used to go to a busy station in Tokyo every night to meet his owner from the train. But when his owner died, Hachiko didn’t stop coming to the station. He sat there patiently every evening for a decade, waiting. Today, he has his own statue outside the station.Â
Pickles
In 1966, England hosted the men’s football World Cup, but shortly before the tournament started, someone stole the trophy! It was found by a clever collie dog called Pickles, who became a national hero. When England won the tournament, Pickles got a medal too!
Why not bring you four-legged friend along with you on your next adventure? Take a look at our dog-friendly holidays.
Photo credit: Adobestock – Donna White / Jess Wealleans / everydoghasastory / slowmotiongli / Rixie / Eric Isselee
Read next: King Charles III England Coast Path
