This is the amusing moment a robot dog interacted with a Labrador Retriever mix on the street.

Footage shows the small animatronic device, created by Go2 of Unitree Technology, approaching the sleeping pooch in Hubei, China, on October 17.

Startled by the machine, the dog began barking at it. When the robot raised its arm, the canine cautiously stepped back, seemingly anticipating an attack.

However, moments later, the two were seen engaging playfully, amusing passersby with their unlikely interaction.

Human and animal robots are being developed in several countries, but China and the United States are leading the 'tech arms race'.

A military-style robot dog was even seen protecting President-Elect Donald Trump in Florida earlier this month.

While in Texas, Elon Musk's Tesla hopes to have its version of a human-robot called Optimus available for sale in 2026.

Musk - who had a prominent role in the recent US election victory of Donald Trump - recently presented Optimus, describing it as a multi-functional assistant that could handle household chores, play with children, and assist with various repetitive tasks.