Border collie Chutou, who had more than 1.58 million followers on Chinese social media, disappeared while following his owner’s father’s routine. The animal was taken by a couple on an electric scooter and ended up sold for 180 yuan, the equivalent of around 34 Singapore dollars, to a dog meat dealer. The pet ended up slaughtered and consumed in a restaurant.
Guo, a travel influencer who had raised the dog for nine years, was on an international trip when he received the news. He immediately returned home and began an intense search. The case gained national attention after videos and updates were published on Douyin.
Chutou became a star on social networks with trips around the country
Guo found Chutou as a puppy on the side of the road and paid 2,000 yuan for the animal. Over time, the border collie began to accompany his owner on road trips around China. Chutou’s images exploring landscapes and interacting with the public gained a loyal audience. Many followers were enchanted by the eight-year-old dog’s intelligence and energy.
The influencer documented the adventures in short videos. This constant presence on the networks turned Chutou into a digital celebrity. The pet appeared alongside Guo in different provinces, which strengthened the bond between the two and attracted new admirers.
- The dog accompanied Guo on long trips
- Videos highlighted Chutou’s friendly personality
- Douyin account surpassed 1.58 million followers
- Content mixed landscapes and everyday moments with the animal
Owner’s father left the dog near the car while working in the field
The incident happened in Ningling County, Shangqiu City, Henan Province. Guo’s father took Chutou with him while he worked in the fields. The animal used to stay close to the vehicle, as usual. At some point, he disappeared.
Security camera footage recorded a couple approaching the dog on a scooter. Guo managed to identify the suspect in another village. When confronted on May 26, the man admitted to having taken the animal, claiming he thought it was a stray. He said he called the dog and it followed him.
Suspect sold Chutou for a low price and denies committing a crime
The alleged thief sold Chutou for 180 yuan to an intermediary on May 14. Guo contacted the dealer and discovered that the border collie had already been resold and slaughtered. The suspect and his family refused to apologize. They stated that the animal was dead and that there was no illegality in the act.
The owner offered a reward of 5,000 yuan on social media during the initial search. Hundreds of internet users mobilized to help. Even so, the tragic outcome was confirmed days later. Guo reported the case to local police, who opened an administrative investigation.
Owner refuses private agreement and demands legal punishment
Guo stated that he will not accept mediation or private settlement. He intends to continue with the legal process. The influencer published a message on Douyin on May 31st thanking him for the support he received. He mentioned that the authorities are expediting the case and that he is cooperating with the investigations.
Lawyer Lin Feiran, from Beijing Jingdu Law Firm, explained to Dahe Daily that China does not yet have specific legislation for pets. The episode is treated simply as theft of property. This limits the possibilities for more severe punishment.
The case reignited discussions about the dog meat trade and the protection of pets in the country. Chutou’s followers expressed outrage online and called for stricter laws for similar cases. Guo continues to update followers on developments.
