This pet owner let his pit bull named Shadow enter an elevator without being held by a leash, leaving viewers torn in the video's comments.

Footage shows the "gentle giant" walking into the lift and sit next to a couple who appear visibly weary of the large canine's presence.

The filmer told Newsflare: "Shadow isn’t just a big dog, he’s got an even bigger heart. Every time we go into the city centre, people’s first reaction is fear. They see his size before they see his personality. Some even cross the street, but the truth is, Shadow’s the gentlest soul you’ll ever meet.

"Our goal has always been to change that reaction, to show people that big dogs aren’t scary, they’re misunderstood. And every time someone finally stops, pets him, and realises how calm and loving he is, it proves exactly that. Shadow teaching people not to judge by size but by character."

The clip has racked up 6.3 million views on Instagram where the comments have been split.

"Walking around without holding his leash? It's almost like you want people to react," one user said.

Another commented: "I’m a dog lover but this is inconsiderate. We know he’s super nice. They don’t."

"Awww, he's just a baby," one user said.

Shadow isn’t just a big dog, he’s got an even bigger heart. Every time we go into the city centre, people’s first reaction is fear. They see his size before they see his personality. Some even cross the street, but the truth is, Shadow’s the gentlest soul you’ll ever meet.
Our goal has always been to change that reaction, to show people that big dogs aren’t scary, they’re misunderstood. And every time someone finally stops, pets him, and realises how calm and loving he is, it proves exactly that. Shadow teaching people not to judge by size but by character.

6.3 million views