A young dog has been praised for saving a family from a house fire, by barking to wake them up.

Wilbur - a one-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback - is a former resident of the Dogs Trust.

He was surrendered to the charity as a puppy in December 2021, after his original owners realised he wasn't the Spaniel-cross they were promised - but a much larger breed.

But this case of mistaken identity led to his adoption in January of this year, and his new family never looked back.

Rhodesian Ridgeback cross Wilbur, who was adopted from Dogs Trust Ireland, is being hailed a hero after saving his sleeping family from a house fire. Picture by: Fran Veale

When they heard the usually quiet dog barking frantically a few weeks ago, they knew something was wrong.

Thanks to Wilbur raising the alarm, the family quickly realised their house was being engulfed in flames.

They were able to quickly and safely leave the property.

His adopter explained: "It's really quite simple, Wilbur saved both me and my son's life.

"If it wasn't for the fact he barked until I woke to alert us something was wrong, I would never have known the house was on fire until it was too late.

"He is undoubtedly a hero in our eyes and forever our most loyal friend."

Rhodesian Ridgeback cross Wilbur, who was adopted from Dogs Trust Ireland, is being hailed a hero after saving his sleeping family from a house fire. Picture by: Fran Veale

Sandra Ruddell is assistant manager at Dogs Trust Ireland.

She said: "Wilbur's family gave him a second chance in life by adopting him, and in turn he saved their lives and their home.

"We are so grateful that everyone is OK, and that the family and Wilbur could get to safety."

She added: "Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred for their bravery and to protect the family home, so it's no surprise that Wilbur lived up to his heroic heritage.

"All our dogs are special, but Wilbur's story really goes to show you how loyal our canine companions are.

"If you are looking to add a dog to your life, choose rescue and you never know, that dog might just come to your rescue one day too".

Main image: Rhodesian Ridgeback cross Wilbur, who was adopted from Dogs Trust Ireland, is being hailed a hero after saving his sleeping family from a house fire. Picture by: Fran Veale