A would-be intruder had to hightail it out of a garden when a “hero” dog raised the alarm in the early hours of the morning.

A CCTV video captured in a Watford garden shows a hooded figure making their way in through a gate before clearly getting a fright as the lights came on, as they bolted within seconds.

Hertfordshire Constabulary confirmed they were called at just before 5am today (December 19) to reports of a “suspicious incident” in Foxhill.

A force spokesperson said: “It was reported that an unknown person was spotted on CCTV in a residential garden at 3.30am.

“The person left the area when a security light came on and dog barked.”

Niki Sinfield was woken when her “hero dog” Zeus started barking at her window but didn’t realise what had happened.

She said: “Zeus was in full defensive mode. Growling and barking at my window.

“I tried to ignore him, told him to shut up but he wouldn't.”

Niki then noticed her gate was open, even though she was sure she had closed it, so took Zeus with her to lock it.

Watford Observer: Niki and ZeusNiki and Zeus (Image: Niki Sinfield)

The dog bolted out of the gate, and it was this out of character behaviour that made her check CCTV.

“All the weirdness told me there was more to it,” she added.

It was then that the hapless crook was discovered, and it became apparent how heroic the pet had really been in giving everyone a fright by barking as soon as the lights came on.

The pet owner added: “They are lucky I didn't let him straight out.

“The dog fully chased them out into the street, but they had bolted.

Watford Observer: ZeusZeus (Image: Niki Sinfield)

“Whoever it is isn't the sharpest tool in the box. They picked the house with CCTV, security lighting, and the most protective dog ever.”

After the Facebook post, locals were quick to congratulate Zeus for defending his turf.

Comments on the post included “Well done to your dog”, “clever boy”, and “steak tonight Zeus”.

Niki confirmed Zeus will indeed be having a well-deserved steak dinner.