A terrifying moment was caught on home security footage when a black bear wandered into a home in Monrovia, California, and came face-to-face with the family’s 17-year-old dog, Doodle.
The video, shared by resident Zoe Cadman, shows the bear entering through what appears to be the kitchen and making its way into the living room. Seconds later, Doodle, a senior dog with a small frame and a brave heart, confronts the unexpected intruder. Despite the enormous size difference, Doodle barks ferociously, startling the bear momentarily.
What happens next is both tense and surreal. The bear leans forward and appears to sniff Doodle, who retreats slightly before barking again. The bear then follows the dog deeper into the home. Cadman reportedly screamed in an attempt to scare the bear off, but her efforts were unsuccessful. It’s unclear how long the bear remained inside or whether the dog sustained any injuries, but the confrontation left viewers shaken.
Neighbors say the same bear had been seen roaming the neighborhood earlier that day. A tracker around its neck indicates this is not the first time the animal has been caught invading homes. According to local reports, the bear also entered another house nearby, where it helped itself to pizza, ice cream, and freezer contents. It was even spotted lounging in a backyard pool.
Though frightening, this kind of encounter is becoming more common in parts of California. The state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has warned residents about increased bear activity in urban-adjacent areas. Bears are increasingly entering residential zones in search of food, especially during warmer months when natural resources may be scarce.
The CDFW urges residents to take preventative steps to avoid such confrontations. This includes securing trash bins, removing pet food from outdoor areas, closing windows when not home, and never leaving food out on porches or decks. Once a bear becomes food-conditioned and comfortable around people, it’s more likely to return, increasing risks to both humans and wildlife.
While this encounter ended without tragedy, it serves as a powerful reminder: living near nature’s edge comes with real responsibilities. Thanks to Doodle’s bravery, no one was harmed this time—but not all such stories end so well.
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This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.