NEW YORK - A fluffy little dog named Lexi is being called a hero for helping to rescue an 85-year-old neighbour who collapsed in his Brooklyn apartment.

Linda Deutsch concedes that she thought Lexi - a white bichon frise - was being naughty when she refused to get into the elevator for their walk.

Finally, though, Deutsch let Lexi lead her down the hall.

That's when she heard a cry for help.

The building superintendent was summoned, and they found Charles Postler, who had been lying helplessly on the floor for hours.

He was treated at a hospital.

Comments his son, Charles Postler Jr.: "People say that dogs are man's best friend and this proves it all over again."