A family dog was attacked by a German shepherd let off its muzzle in Cobham woods.

Labrador Bella was being walked by its owner’s nanny when the dog attacked out of nowhere and sunk its teeth into Bella’s back.

The attack on Monday, June 11, happened in seconds and the nanny only realised when she heard Bella yelp.

She and the German shepherd’s owner managed to separate the dogs, but Bella’s owner Charles Firebrace spoke out to warn others.

The father-of-three said: “The dog could have killed her and it could have been a kid. The owner needs to understand this isn’t being treated lightly.

“Our nanny was very shaken up when she got home. It was horrible for her.”

Bella was left with an 8in wound on her back after the attack in woods at the end of Pointers Road, near Downside.

The owner, who had let the dog off its lead and out of its muzzle, refused to give her details at the scene and Mr Firebrace called police to pursue matters.

A police spokesman said: “Surrey Police are reminding dog owners that they have a duty to keep their animals under control in a public place.

“Dog owners should also be aware that if they are found guilty of having a dog that is out of control, they may face a £1,000 fine and/or imprisonment and could be banned from owning a dog in future.”

Bella, who Mr Firebrace described as “a bit of a human”, is recovering well, but the full affect of the attack on her remains to be seen.

Anyone who witnesses a dog acting dangerously, not being properly controlled or attacking people or other animals should call Surrey Police on 101.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.