He's a real-life hero!

Gavin Rossdale saved his dog Chewy when it was almost swept to sea during a family day at the beach. The Bush frontman noticed the Pomeranian was about to get pulled into the Pacific Ocean and then jumped into action -- saving him from the waves. That's one soggy doggy!

The British rocker was having a day of sun and fun with wife Gwen Stefani, their sons Kingston and Zuma, as well as stylist-to-the-stars Rachel Zoe and her family.

Gwen and Zoe stayed on the balcony during the excitement -- but their broods seemed to have a blast on the sand despite the scary hiccup.