A dog from Nipigon, Ontario is receiving recognition for her bravery in defending her family against a black bear last autumn. Chloe, a mixed-breed medium-sized dog, has been honored with a spot in the Purina Animal Hall of Fame for her exceptional courage and loyalty in safeguarding her owners during life-threatening situations, as per a recent press release. Chloe, a rescue dog adopted by Colette and Joe Shwetz in May 2019 when she was six months old, is described by Colette as a humble and affectionate old soul.
The incident occurred on the night of September 16, 2025, when Chloe was let out into the yard, only for the bear to follow her back inside the house. Colette Shwetz, who was joined by her husband Joe, found themselves face-to-face with the bear in their kitchen. Joe, awakened by Chloe’s barking, rushed to find Chloe holding the bear’s hind leg in her mouth, attempting to guide it out of the house. Eventually, the bear was led to the basement after a struggle in the kitchen.
Chloe bravely held off the bear in the hallway, barking and preventing its return until the police arrived and dealt with the situation. Following the ordeal, all three – Colette, Joe, and Chloe – required medical attention, with Chloe being at risk due to the bite she sustained. Despite the challenges, Chloe’s resilience prevailed, and she was rewarded with a steak dinner for her heroic actions.
In a statement, Purina mentioned that the Animal Hall of Fame, established in 1968, has acknowledged a total of 198 animals, including 170 dogs, 27 cats, and one horse, for their exceptional acts of bravery that have saved lives in Canada. Chloe joins the ranks of other heroic animals, including Murph, an Australian Blue Merle Sheepdog from Kenora, who was recognized in 1984 for alerting her owners to a fire in their apartment building, enabling a successful evacuation of all residents.