This is the moment a plucky dog showed its bark was definitely worse than its bite - by taking on a tiger.

The brave pooch was wandering around inside a safari park when it spotted staff taking the the big cat for a walk.

But rather than run for cover, the mutt seemed to have a problem with the deadly tiger and bounded towards it then began furiously yapping.

Despite the size difference, the tiger cowered like a pussy cat and backed away into nearby bushes.

It feebly swiped a paw at the pooch and made an attempt to run away before handlers eventually picked up the dog at the Namuang Safari Park in Koh Samui, Thailand on June 16.

Piyawan Pamornphol, 32, who was visiting at the time, said: ''It's strange for a cat this big to be afraid of dogs. But the tiger was definitely scared, it was trying to get away from the dog.

''I know which one I'd prefer to have in my house protecting me if there's a thief inside.

''The dog was not afraid of anything.''