Candles caused Christmas blaze at Chelsea apartment that left 'Hugging Dog' homeless

Candles left unattended by a neighbor sparked the raging blaze that tore through a Chelsea apartment building on Christmas, leaving a beloved, nationally known “Hugging Dog” and his master homeless, FDNY officials said Tuesday.

High winds whipped the fire into a frenzy after it was ignited by the candles on the top floor of the six-story building on W. 19th St. near Seventh Ave. about 3:35 p.m. Monday.

One resident and one firefighter suffered minor injuries.

The fire left several families homeless, including Cesar Fernandez, 46, and his Golden Retriever Louboutina, who gained national fame, and a 189,000-strong Instagram following, for giving hugs to strangers.

Beloved 'Hugging Dog' left homeless after fire erupts in NYC

Fernandez was out walking Louboutina when the fire broke out in his neighbor’s pad and quickly spread to his place.

“My ceiling collapsed on my kitchen, my bedroom, everything,” Fernandez told the Daily News Monday. “I don't know what is going to happen now because I don't have a home ...  Luckily we're safe, and that's what's more important.”

Big-hearted dog lovers have already created a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for Fernandez and Louboutina’s relocation.

As of Tuesday morning, the fund has raised $28,225 — well over the $20,000 goal.