Heartbreaking photos show owner Buncherd Praprom, 35, lying next to the dying pooch, which had suffered several bites around her mouth.

The monocled cobra, one of the deadliest snakes in the world, was in dying after being wounded by the protective dog. It’s believed its powerful venom would have killed the dog within a few minutes.

Owner Suriyon Chanthakhet, 51, said the loyal pet lived with them all in the property.

Two-year-old Nong Horm was found dead alongside the 4ft long reptile

He said: “Our beautiful dog was killed while protecting us from the cobra. My heart is breaking. Thinking about the pain she must have experienced makes me cry.”

Suriyon said he heard Nong Horm fighting with something near the front yard but when he finally went outside it was too late to save the dog from the cobra.

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Suriyon, who is seen mourning in the pictures talked to Nong Horm as she was dying, saying: “What has just happened to you, my dear?

Owner Suriyon Chanthakhet, 51, said the dog was “loyal” and gave her life for them

“Why did this tragic accident happen to you? I am so sorry that you died while you were pregnant.”

Suriyon said he blamed himself because he could not save Nong Horm and her puppies.

The cobra also died shortly after. The family then took the snake outside while Nong Horm was buried in the back garden.

Suriyon added: “Nong Horm was the best pet dog our family have even taken care of. She was so loyal, even giving her life for us.”

It isn’t the first time a dog has been praised for fighting off a snake.

In November another dog died after being bitten by a cobra, to protect its owner’s children.

The rottweiler named Laden, sacrificed itself for its family after the attack in the east of India.

His owner, Sunil Krushna Samantray, told police the dog had been tied up in front of his home in the village of Mundamuhana when tragedy struck..