Fearless pup launches itself at black bear in New Jersey backyard

HEWITT, N.J. (STORYFUL) - A fearless dog protected a family from harm on July 9 when he bolted into his neighbor’s yard in Hewitt, New Jersey, and launched himself at a black bear that had been snooping around the house.

Surveillance video shows the bear pawing around near a window, before the brave pup sprints into the yard and chases it away.

Mark Stinziano took to Facebook to share his gratitude for his guardian angel.

“My neighbors dog is getting a steak dinner next time I see him. He is an awesome pup that comes to check on the kids from time to time. Now he is keeping them safe! This was tonight in my backyard. Riley-1 Bear-0,” he wrote.