BEIJING – Seven dogs believed to have been stolen for the illegal dog meat trade in northeast China made a remarkable journey back to their owners after escaping from a transport truck, Chinese media reported.

According to the South China Morning Post, the dogs – all from the same village in Jilin province – were taken from three separate households before reportedly breaking out of a cage and leaping from a moving vehicle on the Changshuang Expressway.

The group then travelled together for nearly two days, covering an estimated 17 kilometres across highways and open fields, while staying tightly coordinated.

A video recorded on March 16 by a man identified as Lu showed the dogs moving in formation along a busy road in Changchun. Footage circulating widely online appeared to show a corgi leading from the front, occasionally turning back, while a golden retriever kept to the outer edge. An injured German shepherd was seen limping at the centre, surrounded by the others, which adjusted their pace to match it.

Lu attempted to guide the animals to safety but was ignored. He later shared the video on Douyin and appealed for help, prompting volunteers to mobilise. A drone was also deployed to help track the dogs.

“They moved in unison – nothing like stray dogs,” Lu was quoted as saying by Dahe Daily.

By March 19, volunteers confirmed that all seven dogs had been reunited with their owners.

“We are so lucky they came back, not to be eaten,” said one owner, who had lost both a German shepherd and a golden retriever. Another owner credited her corgi’s intelligence and ability to find its way home.

Dog theft is a criminal offence in China, with penalties depending on the animal’s value. However, cases have been reported in cities such as Changchun, Harbin and Dalian.

While the consumption of dog meat remains controversial, a small number of restaurants in northern China still serve it, partly due to beliefs it helps withstand harsh winters. As raising dogs for meat is costly, stolen pets and stray animals are often targeted by illegal suppliers.

The incident drew widespread attention online, with the video amassing more than 230 million views in China. Many social media users praised the animals’ loyalty and the efforts of rescuers, while expressing relief that the dogs had safely returned home.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin