This is the dramatic moment a brave pet dog ran into a frozen lake to save his struggling friend.

The brown pooch had been sprinting across the icy surface when the thin layer suddenly gave way, sending the hapless canine into the freezing water in Sichuan, China.

This prompted its owner to rush forward and attempt a rescue using a rope on February 6.

However, the poodle companion wearing a brown doggy jacket suddenly leapt into the lake, trying to help the struggling animal climb back onto the surface.

The filmer can be heard screaming in shock upon seeing the heroic dog dashing to assist its buddy.

Seeing both dogs battling to escape the icy pit, their owners quickly intervened, throwing rocks to break the fragile ice and guide the animals closer to the edge.

After a laborious effort, the dogs finally managed to scramble back onto the shore, escaping the freezing water.

Onlooker Ms Chen, who recorded the video, said neither of the animals were hurt.