A PITBULL terrier savagely attacked a police dog which was trying to stop two men committing a burglary.

Max, a Belgian shepherd, was forced into retirement following the attack because of the severe injuries received. The terrier, which belonged to Karl Millward, had to be shot at the scene because it was so vicious.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Millward, 20, and David Roscoe, 18, had been trying to steal items from a storage container at Hargreaves Lower Brockholes Quarry, close to the M6 at Samlesbury, when the terrier launched its attack on Max, which was with two police officers.

The pitbull bit Max’s leg and neck, leaving the police dog frightened of meeting new people. The terrier also tried to bite the face of one of the officers. Max had to be put down after attacking its new owner.

Millward, of Farringdon Crescent, Ribbleton, Preston, pleaded guilty to destruction of property, attempted burglary and having a dog causing fear of injury.

He was sentenced to six months in a young offenders’ institute, suspended for two years, when he appeared at Preston Crown Court on Monday.

Roscoe, of The Glen, Ribbleton, admitted attempted burglary. He was ordered to carry out 140 hours of unpaid work.

Senior prosecutor Brett Gerrity said: “The Crown Prosecution Service and police are dedicated to tackling thefts and burglaries, and those who allow their dogs to be out of control when they can cause serious harm to others. “We will continue to work together to bring to justice those who commit such offences.”