This is the moment a suspected bike thief takes a break from a burglary to pet and cuddle the victim’s golden retriever.

A statement obtained by Newsflash from the San Diego Police Department said: “In a rather peculiar turn of events, as the suspect was about to make his escape, he paused to pet the household dog who had entered the garage.”

The unidentified male entered a garage at a residence in the Pacific Beach neighbourhood in San Diego, in the US state of California, at around 10:40pm on 15th July.

He reportedly intended to steal a distinctive 2019 black Electra 3-speed bicycle, valued at approximately USD 1,300 (GBP 1,020).

Notably, unique with ‘8-ball’ caps on the tire valves, an ‘8-ball’ logo on the frame, and a rear wheel frame marked with a checkered black and white pattern, the bike was recognizable.

The surveillance footage from the home shows the moment when the suspect prepared to exit with the stolen bike, and the household’s friendly dog entered the garage, causing him to pause.

The footage captures the suspect pulling the bike back into the garage, engaging its kickstand, and interacting affectionately with the dog, offering pets and belly rubs.

“You’re so cool,” the man is heard saying to the dog. “You’re the coolest dog I’ve ever known. I love you, too. You’re a sweetheart.”

He then inquired about the dog’s “dad” and commented on the garage being left open, before continuing his theft of the bike.

Described as a white male, the suspect remains at large. He was last seen wearing a blue and white hat, gray shirt, blue shorts, and orange athletic shoes, carrying a black and blue backpack.

The San Diego Police Department has urged the public to provide any information that might assist in the case’s resolution.