My last blog was on Dogs (https://thetamhankar.com/2024/11/05/life-without-a-pet-cant-imagine/) and now this. Taking a cue from today – 26th Aug 2025 – being an #International Dog Day, I thought of penning down some thoughts, stories that depicts the loyalty and companionship of our beloved furry friends. Today is not about my dog Biscuit, but few others. By the way Biscuit is turning 4 coming November..!. Here’s the cheeky guy playing fondly with an empty parcel box. Of all his toys he likes to play with boxes.
International Dog Day, observed every year on August 26, is a global celebration dedicated to honoring and appreciating our canine companions—the love, loyalty, and joy they bring into our lives. It’s also a day to spotlight animal welfare issues, particularly the importance of adoption, rescue, and responsible pet ownership. The day was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet-lifestyle expert.
International Dog Day blends heartfelt appreciation with meaningful advocacy—an opportunity for dog lovers everywhere to both celebrate and take action for the welfare of these beloved companions, promote adoption and rescue, and encourage responsible pet ownership.
Across continents and circumstances—from vigil and rescue to heroism and heartfelt companionship—these ten stories highlight the depth of love, intuition, and unwavering loyalty dogs offer. Each tale brings its own emotional weight, perfect for weaving into a blog to celebrate International Dog Day.
Following stories are a collation from my research (including their sources) and restricted to 10 so not to get overwhelmed and too emotional 🙂
Ten Heart-Tugging Tales of Canine Loyalty
- Hachikō (Japan)
This legendary Akita waited daily at Tokyo’s Shibuya Station for his deceased owner for over nine years—becoming a national symbol of devotion and earning a memorial statue in his honor. WikipediaDog Breed ProVillage Pipolgooddoghotel.com - Greyfriars Bobby (Scotland)
A Skye Terrier who sat vigil at his owner’s grave in Edinburgh for 14 years after his passing. The city later memorialized him with a drinking fountain topped by his statue. Wikipedia - Canelo (Spain)
For over 12 years, this devoted dog waited outside a hospital for his now-deceased owner. The community commemorated him with a bronze plaque and even named the street in his memory. Wikipedia - Bobbie the Wonder Dog (USA)
After being accidentally left behind during a family road trip, Bobbie made a remarkable 2,551-mile journey across mountains and rivers to return home, becoming famous worldwide. Wikipedia - Dżok (Poland)
After his owner died from a heart attack, Dżok waited daily at the spot where it happened. He later inspired a statue and became a beloved symbol of unwavering loyalty. Rest Less - Gobi (China → Scotland)
A stray who struck up an instant bond with runner Dion Leonard during a 155-mile desert race—Gobi followed him for over 50 miles and eventually became part of his family in Scotland. RosyCheeked - Gwen (Wales)
When her owner collapsed from a stroke in a remote field, Gwen stayed by his side for a week, keeping him warm and even fetching water—helping save his life. She was honored with an RSPCA award. RosyCheeked - Kabang (Philippines)
This brave street dog sacrificed her snout and upper jaw to save her owner’s daughter from being hit by a motorcycle. Her heroic act captured global attention, and a statue now honors her memory. Village Pipol - Willie, General Patton’s Dog (USA/World War II)
Willie (aka William the Conqueror) accompanied General George S. Patton through campaigns across Europe during WWII—by his side in every major move, embodying companionship amidst conflict. Wikipedia - Brody (Ireland)
A two-year-old sniffer dog at Shannon Airport who helped seize over €100 million in contraband while maintaining a calm, playful demeanor—thanks to a strong bond with his handler, Wendy.
The stories of Bobby and Akita are truely emotional in every sense. I wonder what hurdles, challenges, and threats Bobby would have gone through those 2500 miles odd journey and how he reached his home safely. Amazing.
I hereby invite readers to share stories of their own loyal companions and perhaps do a heartfelt tribute to shelter dogs or support adoption.
Ranjit Tamhankar 
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