Two children injured in spate of dog attacks over Christmas

A two-year-old child has been bitten by an XL Bully in one of 15 incidents involving dogs causing injury or fear between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, according to police.

South Yorkshire Police said the child was bitten at about 11:00 GMT on Boxing Day in Sheffield, but provided no further details on the injuries caused.

The force said later the same day another child was taken to hospital after having their thumb partially removed by a Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

A police spokesperson said both dogs had been seized and urged owners never to leave children and dogs unattended, saying: “Any dog has the ability to bite, cause injury or fear – do not think it won’t happen to you or in your home.”

Also on Boxing Day, a woman in Barnsley was bitten on the face by a German Shepherd cross, requiring her to have plastic surgery.

And, in Doncaster, a couple in their 70s were both bitten by a Belgian Malinois and required treatment for puncture wounds, the force said.

The spokesperson added: “Gatherings in your home, new toys, loud noises, the excitement from children can be overwhelming for dogs, and cause them stress or to act in a manner that wouldn’t usually be their character.

“Make sure your dog has somewhere safe and comfortable to go to when you have visitors.”