A 42-year-old Dryden, Ont., man has his schnauzer to thank after surviving a black bear attack at a provincial park in northwestern Ontario.

Unfortunately his dog won't be around to lap up the appreciation, as it died following the ordeal.

The man, who has been released from hospital, was attacked Saturday afternoon by a mature black bear while he was camping at Sand Bar Provincial Park.

Ontario Provincial Police in Ignace said he was on a walk with his two dogs when he decided to take a break near the water when he was attacked from behind by the bear.

The man got away by running into the water, where he waited until the bear eventually went away.

He later attempted to walk back to his camp site, but the bear came back and attacked him again, police said.

One of the dogs, a schnauzer, attempted to protect its owner and fend off the bear, allowing the man to get away. He eventually made it to the park ranger station, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and transported to Dryden Regional Health Centre.

The bear was shot by park officials and was later caught in a live trap.

Provincial park officials said the trails surrounding the park will remain closed until they complete their investigation.

In the meantime, police have issued a warning to people in the area of Sand Bar Provincial Park to be extra vigilant and protect themselves.

Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officers, along with the K9 unit, helped to track the bear.