Stray dogs that need somewhere warm to sleep during the winter months, have offered sanctuary by an Italian Ikea store.

Martine Taccia was shopping at a branch in Catania when she discovered the dogs cuddled up on carpet among the Christmas displays.

“My reaction was pure amazement,” she told The Dodo. “It’s not a common thing.”

According to Taccia, the store’s staff also provides food and water to the homeless puppies - and some of the dogs have “even found a family, going home with customers.”

A video taken by Taccia of the heartwarming display has since been viewed nearly one million times on Facebook - and received hundreds of comments from people thanking the store and its staff.

Other customers at the Catania Ikea have also shared photos of the dogs on social media, tagged under the store’s location.

“I am now forever loyal to Ikea,” one person commented on a picture of the sleeping dogs.

Another said: “Love Ikea even more! The dogs fit the decor perfectly.”

Although it does not appear this is a company-wide initiative, Ikea has previously shown its soft side for animals.

In 2017, the furniture company launched a home collection just for cats and dogs.

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The LURVIG collection, which was named for the Swedish word “shaggy,” includes pet beds, cushions, food dishes, and a miniature sofa.

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