This is the moment lifeguards return a dog to its owners on a Californian beach after it went for a swim and ended up 1,800 feet from the shore.

The dog rescue took place from Zuma Beach in the city of Malibu in the US state of California earlier this week.

The Lifeguard Division of the Los Angeles County Fire Department said on social media on 24th January: “Not your everyday ocean rescue, but we were sure happy to help this four-legged friend make its way back to the beach!

“Lifeguards launched a Rescue Watercraft from Zuma Beach after receiving a report of a dog swimming offshore of a small cove near Nicolas State Beach.

“Lifeguards located the dog about 600 yards from shore, secured it on the rescue sled, and transported it back to its owner on the beach.

“While rescues like this one sure put a smile on our face, Lifeguards would like to remind beachgoers that dogs are not allowed on Los Angeles County Beaches.”

In the footage, lifeguards are seen returning to shore with the dog as several people clap and cheer.

After the chubby dog is returned to its owners, one of the women gives the two lifeguards a hug as her companion fastens a lead onto the sodden pooch.

Meanwhile, the dog shakes the seawater from its fur and wags its tail as the video comes to an end.

Facebook user ‘Esther Arellano’ commented: “Our LA County Lifeguards are the best!”

Netizen ‘Patricia Firestone’ said: “Lifeguards rock! Thanks for watching the water.”