A DOG cheated death but another was killed after they plunged off a cliff at a Dorset beauty spot.

Rescuers have warned owners to be aware of the dangers when walking pets near the coast after the tragedy.

Portland Coastguard said a boxer dog called Tyson died after going over a cliff near Durdle Door.

Moments earlier a cocker spaniel called Lola, owned by a relative of the owner of the boxer, went over the same cliff after slipping her leash.

The dog landed on a ledge with a steep slope beneath.

Coastguards advised the owner not to put himself at risk by trying to reach the dog, but wait for the cliff rescue team.

Lola managed to scramble back up the cliff as the Lulworth Coastguard Rescue Team was setting up its kit.

The team retrieved Tyson from the base of the cliff. The owners of the dogs were visiting from Gloucestershire when the tragedy happened on Friday night.

Portland Coastguard watch manager Maddy Davey warned: “Dogs and cliffs don’t tend to mix.”

She added: “Losing a dog in such circumstances can be tremendously traumatic for the owner and their family, especially if the animal is a well loved pet. Come and enjoy the fantastic coastline during a summer break but remember that your dog will be as unfamiliar with the terrain as you are.

“Keep dogs on a leash on the cliff top and keep them under control.

“Dogs can become excited at the new smells and unfamiliar landscape and may want to take that step too far.”