Heartwarming images capture a touching moment as a mother dog nurses four tiger cubs at a nature reserve in China.
Among the newborns are two rare golden tabby tigers, one white tiger, and one snow-white tiger.
The cubs, born to Bengal tiger mothers who sadly refused to care for them, found an unexpected yet loving caretaker—a mother dog that had recently given birth to her own puppies.
In a touching display of maternal love, the dog is seen breastfeeding both her own puppies and the four tiger cubs, embracing them as her own.
A Rare and Beautiful Sight
The tiger cubs belong to Xixiakou Nature Reserve in Rongcheng, Shandong Province. Two five-year-old Bengal tigers gave birth on June 7 and June 10, but unfortunately, neither mother showed interest in raising their offspring.
To ensure the cubs’ survival, staff at the reserve introduced them to a mother dog that had recently given birth to two puppies. To everyone’s surprise, the dog accepted the cubs without hesitation, showering them with the same care and affection as her own.
A Unique Blend of Species
The four newborn tiger cubs are especially rare, consisting of:
- One white tiger
- One snow-white tiger
- Two golden tabby tigers (also known as Strawberry tigers)
Golden tabby tigers are an exceptionally rare species and are considered endangered.
Photos shared online show the cubs nestled against their adoptive mother, eagerly nursing alongside their smaller puppy siblings. The puppies, noticeably smaller in size, are seen trying to keep up with their larger tiger siblings.
Thanks to the dedicated care at Xixiakou Nature Reserve, the cubs are thriving. Their eyes are now open, and they continue to grow stronger each day under the nurturing embrace of their devoted canine mother.
