Is it a lion or is it a dog: Mystery solved

Whether you've seen one on TV, online or in books, we're pretty sure all of you will have seen a lion at some point.

But you've got to be quite lucky to get the chance to see one in person, even at a zoo.

Imagine seeing one walking around near to where you live though - you might not feel so lucky then!

Well police in Ireland had to jump into action when someone thought they spotted a large 'lion like' animal in their local woods.

Turns out, the 'lion' was actually a dog, one which is confusingly called Mouse.

The Gardaí - the name for the police in the Republic of Ireland - were told about a video of what was thought to be a lion spotted in County Clare.

They managed to catch up to the 'lion', which they confirmed was actually a "very friendly Newfoundland dog named Mouse".

Mouse looked a bit more lion-like because his coat had been shaved, leaving what looked like a lion's mane.

Siobhan McHaffie, who is from the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said she doesn't know why mouse's coat has been shaved but unless it's for "medical reasons" it's not something you should do because they have a special kind of coat.

Five facts about Newfoundland dogs

1. Newfoundland dogs are named after the island where they originated which is off the East Coast of Canada. They were used as rescue and service dogs by fisherman there.

2. They have partially webbed feet which is one of the reasons they are incredible swimmers.

3. The breed can grow larger than some humans, with the males weighing as much as 68kg - no wonder someone thought Mouse was a big cat!

4. To get that big, they eat A LOT. In their first year as puppies they can put on almost 45kg - that's like the weight of 10 bowling balls.

5. They have been the beloved pet of some notable figures in history including two US presidents and 19th century poet Emily Dickinson.