The Best Dog Stories of Summer – June & July 2025

The past two months have brought us sunshine, long walks, and some truly unforgettable dog moments from around the world. At Buddy Run, we love celebrating dogs not just for the loyalty they show us every day, but for the joy, surprise, and love they bring into our lives when we least expect it.

Here are some of our favourite dog stories from June and July 2025:

A Heroic River Rescue in Oregon

When a young puppy accidentally fell into a fast-moving river in Oregon, help came from an unlikely hero, another dog. Without hesitation, a border collie named Riley dove into the water, swam against the current, and guided the frightened pup back to shore. The dramatic moment was caught on camera and shared online, where it racked up over 12 million views in just a week. Riley’s calm, focused instincts turned what could have been a tragedy into a tale of bravery that captured hearts everywhere.

Lifeguard Dog Keeps Watch on Spanish Beach

On the coast of Spain, beachgoers have been watched over by an unexpected protector, a golden retriever named Sol. Known by locals as El Socorrista (“The Lifeguard”), Sol is part of a water rescue training group but has taken his role very seriously. In June and July, he barked and signalled lifeguards multiple times when swimmers drifted too far out, helping to prevent potential accidents. He now has his own life vest and even gets high-fives from children on the beach.

A Proposal with Paws in Canada

In a heartwarming surprise proposal, a rescue dog played a starring role in helping two volunteers from a Toronto shelter get engaged. The couple had met while walking dogs as part of a weekend fostering program. When the moment came, the groom-to-be tied a small velvet ring box to their adopted dog’s collar. As the dog trotted over during a walk in the park, the surprise was revealed, and the answer was yes.

Three Legs, One Finish Line

A three-legged dog named Poppy stole the show at a 5K charity run in Brighton this July. Despite missing a limb, Poppy completed the entire course alongside her owner, raising funds for an animal prosthetics foundation. Cheered on by fellow runners and spectators, Poppy crossed the finish line to applause, a medal, and a very well-earned treat. Her determination proved that joy and spirit aren’t measured in legs, but in heart.

A Library Dog Gets His Own Card

Every Tuesday, children at a public library in Wisconsin gather to read books out loud to Jasper, a gentle Bernese Mountain Dog trained as a therapy animal. This summer, Jasper became such a beloved regular that the library staff gave him his own library card, complete with his photo and a “staff favourite” badge. There’s even a beanbag corner now known as “Jasper’s Reading Den,” where young readers can curl up with him and a good story.

Share Your Dog’s Story

At Buddy Run, we believe every dog has a story worth sharing. Whether it’s a funny photo, a moment of unexpected bravery, or a quiet show of loyalty, we’d love to hear it.

Leave your favourite summer dog moment in the comments, or tag us on social using #BuddyRun to be featured.

And if you haven’t already, check out www.buddyrun.website to join our growing community of dog lovers, walkers, and tail-waggers.